Syphilis Testing near me in Portland, Oregon

Who should get tested for syphilis?

According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active can get syphilis, but it is particularly prevalent among men who have sex with men. It is also common among individuals with multiple sexual partners, those who engage in unprotected sex, or those who have a partner who has tested positive for syphilis. Pregnant women should also get tested for syphilis as it can be passed on to the unborn child, leading to severe complications.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for syphilis is crucial as the disease can cause serious health problems if left untreated. It can lead to damage to the brain, nerves, eyes, heart, blood vessels, liver, bones, and joints. Early detection and treatment can prevent these complications and stop the spread of the disease to others. According to the CDC, testing is the only sure way to know if you have syphilis.

Syphilis testing options in Portland, OR:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

There are numerous urgent care and walk-in clinics in Portland, OR, where you can get tested for syphilis. For instance, Legacy Health-GoHealth Urgent Care in Beaverton, OR, has a high rating and offers STD testing services. You can book same-day and next-day appointments through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers can also conduct syphilis tests. If you have a regular doctor, you can schedule an appointment for testing. If you don't have a primary care provider, Solv can help you find and book an appointment with one in your area.

Free STD testing and community health centers

There are also free STD testing options and community health centers in Portland. These centers provide affordable testing options, particularly for individuals without insurance or with low income.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for syphilis are also available. These kits can be ordered online and used in the privacy of your home. After collecting a sample, you send it back to a lab for testing and wait for the results.

Prevalence of syphilis in Portland

Portland, located in Multnomah County, has seen a rise in syphilis cases over the years. According to the CDC, the rate of syphilis in Multnomah County is higher than the national average. Compared to nearby counties like Lincoln County, Sherman County, Pierce County, Wasco County, and Marion County, Multnomah County has the highest rate of syphilis.

Risk factors related to syphilis in Portland

The increase in syphilis cases in Portland can be attributed to several risk factors. These include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and drug use. Men who have sex with men are particularly at risk.

Other STDs in Portland

Syphilis is not the only STD of concern in Portland. Other STDs like gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis are also prevalent. Just like with syphilis, these STDs can be detected through testing at local healthcare providers, which can be booked through Solv.