Gonorrhea Testing near me in Columbia, Maryland

Who should get tested for gonorrhea?

Anyone who is sexually active can contract gonorrhea, particularly those with multiple sexual partners or those who do not use condoms consistently. It is especially recommended for sexually active women under 25, men who have sex with men, and individuals with HIV. If you live in Columbia, MD, and fall into any of these categories, it would be wise to get tested.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for gonorrhea is crucial because it is a common sexually transmitted infection that can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. According to the CDC, untreated gonorrhea can cause infertility in both men and women, increase the risk of getting HIV, and can even spread to your blood or joints, which can be life-threatening. Moreover, pregnant women with gonorrhea can pass the infection to their babies during childbirth, which can lead to blindness or a life-threatening infection in the baby.

Gonorrhea testing options in Columbia, MD:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

In Columbia, MD, there are numerous urgent care and walk-in clinics where you can get tested for gonorrhea. For instance, AllCare Primary & Immediate Care, located at 8205 Snowden River Pkwy, Columbia, MD 21045, is a highly-rated option. You can book same-day and next-day testing appointments at this location through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers in Columbia, MD, can also test for gonorrhea. If you have a primary care provider, consider reaching out to them to schedule a test.

Free STD testing and community health centers

There are also free STD testing and community health centers in Columbia, MD, that provide gonorrhea testing. These centers are a great resource, especially for individuals without health insurance.

At-home testing

At-home testing is another convenient option for gonorrhea testing. These tests can be ordered online, conducted in the privacy of your own home, and then sent to a lab for results.

Prevalence of gonorrhea in Columbia

While specific data for Columbia, MD, is not readily available, Howard County, where Columbia is located, has seen a rise in gonorrhea cases in recent years, mirroring a national trend. This underscores the importance of regular testing, especially for those in high-risk groups.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in Columbia

Risk factors for gonorrhea include being sexually active, having multiple sexual partners, inconsistent condom use, and having a previous history of any STDs. Men who have sex with men and individuals with HIV are also at a higher risk.

Other STDs in Columbia

In addition to gonorrhea, other STDs such as chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis are prevalent in Columbia, MD. Regular testing is crucial for early detection and treatment of these infections.

Remember, there are 146 nearby locations in Columbia, MD, where you can get tested for gonorrhea and other STDs. Don't hesitate to use Solv’s website and mobile app to book a testing appointment at a location that suits you.