Gonorrhea Testing near me in Vancouver, Washington

Who should get tested for gonorrhea?

According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active can get gonorrhea, but some groups are at higher risk. This includes sexually active people aged 25 and younger, those with new or multiple sex partners, or individuals who do not consistently use a condom. Those who have had gonorrhea or other sexually transmitted infections in the past are also at a higher risk.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for gonorrhea is crucial for several reasons. First, gonorrhea can cause serious health complications if left untreated, including infertility in both men and women. Second, it can increase the risk of getting or giving HIV. Lastly, testing and treatment help to prevent the spread of the infection to others.

Gonorrhea testing options in Vancouver, WA:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics are good options for gonorrhea testing in Vancouver, WA. For instance, Dr. Hansel's Urgent Care in nearby Gresham, OR, offers same-day and next-day testing appointments which can be booked through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers are also a reliable source for gonorrhea testing. They can provide regular screenings and follow-up care if needed.

Free STD testing and community health centers

There are also free STD testing and community health centers in the Vancouver region that provide gonorrhea testing. These centers are an excellent resource for those who may not have insurance or who prefer a more community-based approach to their healthcare.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for gonorrhea are another option. These kits can be ordered online, used at home, and then sent back to a lab for analysis.

Prevalence of gonorrhea in Vancouver

According to the CDC, the prevalence of gonorrhea in Vancouver and the wider Multnomah County is a concern, with case counts showing an increasing trend over recent years. This trend mirrors what is happening in nearby counties such as Lincoln County and Sherman County, and is higher than the national average.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in Vancouver

Risk factors for gonorrhea in Vancouver include unprotected sex, new or multiple sex partners, and previous or existing sexually transmitted infections. The prevalence of gonorrhea is also higher among young people aged 25 and under.

Other STDs in Vancouver

In addition to gonorrhea, other STDs like chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis are also prevalent in Vancouver. Chlamydia, in particular, has a higher case count than gonorrhea, making regular testing for STDs/STIs crucial for sexually active individuals.