Syphilis Testing near me in Gig Harbor, Washington

Who should get tested for syphilis?

If you are sexually active, it is important to get tested for syphilis. This is particularly crucial for those who have multiple sexual partners, men who have sex with men, or if you or your partner have tested positive for another STD/STI. Pregnant women should also get tested for syphilis, as it can have severe health impacts on both the mother and baby if left untreated.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for syphilis is essential for your overall health. According to the CDC, untreated syphilis can lead to severe health complications such as brain and nerve problems, and it can also increase your risk of getting HIV. Early detection and treatment can prevent these complications. Furthermore, it can also help prevent the spread of the disease to others.

Syphilis testing options in Gig Harbor, WA:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics are good options for syphilis testing in Gig Harbor. Mary Bridge Children's Urgent Care, located at 4700 Point Fosdick Dr, Gig Harbor, WA 98335, is one such clinic. You can book same-day and next-day testing appointments at this clinic through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers can also perform syphilis testing. If you have a regular healthcare provider, you can schedule an appointment for testing.

Free STD testing and community health centers

There are also community health centers in Gig Harbor that offer free or low-cost STD testing. It's important to check with each center for their testing policies and procedures.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits are another convenient option. These kits can be ordered online, used at home, and then sent back to a lab for testing. Results are typically available online within a few days.

Prevalence of syphilis in Gig Harbor

Gig Harbor, located in Pierce County, has seen a rise in syphilis cases over the years. This trend mirrors the national increase in syphilis cases, according to the CDC. Comparatively, nearby counties such as Lincoln County and Sherman County have lower syphilis rates. It's important to note that these numbers can fluctuate and it's crucial to get tested regularly if you're sexually active.

Risk factors related to syphilis in Gig Harbor

Risk factors for syphilis in Gig Harbor include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and drug use. Men who have sex with men are particularly at risk. Socioeconomic factors such as lack of access to healthcare and lower income levels can also contribute to higher rates of syphilis.

Other STDs in Gig Harbor

In addition to syphilis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis are also prevalent in Gig Harbor. Regular testing for all STDs/STIs is recommended for sexually active individuals. Testing locations such as Carbon Health in Puyallup, WA and Tran Urgent Care & Wellness Centers in Tacoma, WA offer comprehensive STD testing services.