Syphilis Testing near me in Tacoma, Washington

Who should get tested for syphilis?

All sexually active individuals should consider getting tested for syphilis, especially those with multiple partners or those who engage in unprotected sex. The CDC recommends routine testing for pregnant women, men who have sex with men, and individuals living with HIV. If you live in Tacoma, WA, and fall into these categories, it's particularly important to get tested due to the prevalence of syphilis in this area.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for syphilis is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it helps in early detection and treatment, preventing the disease from progressing to more severe stages that can cause serious health complications. Secondly, it helps to stop the spread of the disease to others. According to the CDC, untreated syphilis can lead to damage to the brain, nerves, eyes, heart, blood vessels, liver, bones, and joints.

Syphilis testing options in Tacoma, WA:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics offer convenient, same-day testing for syphilis. In Tacoma, you can book appointments at facilities like Tran Urgent Care & Wellness Centers, which has a 3.6 rating and is located at 710 S 38th St, Tacoma, WA 98418.

Primary care providers

Your primary care provider can also administer a syphilis test. If you don't have one, Solv can help you find and book an appointment with a trusted provider in Tacoma.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Free STD testing is available at various community health centers in Tacoma. These centers provide confidential testing and counseling services.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits offer a private and convenient option. These kits can be ordered online, and once you've taken the test, you can send it back to a lab for analysis.

Prevalence of syphilis in Tacoma

Syphilis is a significant public health issue in Tacoma, with case counts rising over recent years. This trend mirrors national data, which shows an increase in syphilis cases across the United States. Comparatively, Pierce County, where Tacoma is located, has a higher prevalence of syphilis than nearby counties such as Lincoln, Sherman, Wasco, Marion, and Clackamas.

Risk factors related to syphilis in Tacoma

Risk factors for syphilis in Tacoma include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and drug use. Men who have sex with men and individuals living with HIV are particularly at risk.

Other STDs in Tacoma

In addition to syphilis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis are also prevalent in Tacoma. It's important to get tested for these diseases as well, as they can often occur concurrently. Testing locations like Mary Bridge Children's Urgent Care in Gig Harbor and Carbon Health in Puyallup offer comprehensive STD testing services. You can book same-day and next-day appointments at these locations through Solv's website and mobile app.