Syphilis Testing near me in Eureka, Missouri

Who should get tested for syphilis?

According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active can get syphilis, but it is particularly common among men who have sex with men, individuals with multiple sexual partners, and those who engage in unprotected sex. Syphilis can also be passed from mother to child during pregnancy, so pregnant women are also advised to get tested. It's important to note that having had syphilis in the past does not provide immunity, and you can get infected again.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for syphilis is crucial because, while the disease can be easily treated in its early stages, if left untreated, it can lead to serious health complications such as heart disease, neurological problems, and blindness. Furthermore, an individual with syphilis can easily spread the infection to their sexual partners. Regular testing allows for early detection and treatment, preventing these complications and further spread of the disease.

Syphilis testing options in Eureka, MO:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care centers such as Mercy Health- GoHealth Urgent Care in Kirkwood and St. Louis offer syphilis testing. They are highly rated and provide a convenient option for those needing immediate attention. You can book same-day and next-day testing appointments at each through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers in Eureka and surrounding areas also offer syphilis testing. It's a good idea to discuss your sexual health with your primary care provider, who can guide you on the frequency of testing based on your risk factors.

Free STD testing and community health centers

There are also community health centers in and around Eureka that offer free or low-cost STD testing. These centers can be a valuable resource for those without insurance or those seeking confidential testing.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for syphilis are also available. These kits can be ordered online, used in the privacy of your own home, and then sent back to a lab for analysis. Results are typically available within a few days.

Prevalence of syphilis in Eureka

Eureka, located in St. Louis County, has seen a rise in syphilis cases in recent years, mirroring a national trend. According to the CDC, syphilis rates have been increasing across the country, and St. Louis County is no exception. However, the prevalence of syphilis in Eureka is still lower than in some nearby counties such as Fulton County and Stewart County.

Risk factors related to syphilis in Eureka

Risk factors for syphilis in Eureka include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and drug use. Men who have sex with men are particularly at risk. It's important to note that while these factors increase the risk of syphilis, anyone who is sexually active can get the disease.

Other STDs in Eureka

In addition to syphilis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis are also prevalent in Eureka. Like syphilis, these diseases can be easily detected through testing and are treatable, particularly in their early stages. Regular testing for all STDs/STIs is recommended for anyone who is sexually active.