Gonorrhea Testing in Tampa, FL

Affectionate young couple

Gonorrhea is a common and highly contagious sexually transmitted infection (STI) that affects both men and women. The infection is easily spread through unprotected vaginal, oral, or anal sex. If you are sexually active, you can protect your health—as well as the health of your partner—with appropriate STI testing. A medical professional at South Tampa Immediate Care can help you decide if gonorrhea testing is right for you and, if so, perform the test on-site (the same test can also detect a chlamydia infection). In addition to confidential gonorrhea screening, our physicians can provide treatment for many common STIs, including gonorrhea and chlamydia. If necessary, we can also provide a referral to a specialist in the Tampa, Florida, area for further evaluation and care.

What Are the Causes of Gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which is transmitted through contact with bodily fluids—such as the vaginal secretions or semen—of an infected person. The bacterium can infect the mucous membranes of the reproductive tract, including the cervix, uterus, and fallopian tubes in women, and the urethra in both men and women. Gonorrhea can also infect the throat during oral sex and the rectum during anal sex. Additionally, the infection can be transmitted from mother to baby during childbirth.

What Are the Symptoms of Gonorrhea?

Like many STIs, gonorrhea does not always cause noticeable symptoms, especially in its early stages. As the infection progresses, it may cause:

  • Burning sensations during urination
  • Unusual discharge from the vagina or penis
  • Pelvic or abdominal pain
  • Anal itching
  • Swelling or tenderness in the testicles

How Is Gonorrhea Diagnosed?

At South Tampa Immediate Care, we offer discreet and rapid STI testing for genital gonorrhea and chlamydia using the innovative binx health io Diagnostic System® (binx io), which is widely recognized as a breakthrough in the effort to prevent and control the spread of STIs. Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for diagnosing STIs in urgent care centers, the binx io has revolutionized point-of-care STI testing. With a 30-minute diagnostic turnaround time for genital gonorrhea and chlamydia—two of the most common STIs—this unique molecular platform allows many patients to benefit from a single-visit diagnosis and treatment.

Can Untreated Gonorrhea Lead to Long-Term Complications?

In most cases, gonorrhea can be effectively treated and cured. Prompt testing is important because, if left untreated, the infection can progress and lead to serious complications, such as:

  • Infertility in both men and women
  • Pelvic inflammatory disease in women
  • Increased risk of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection

For the peace of mind you need and deserve, turn to South Tampa Immediate Care for gonorrhea testing. Our team is available every day during extended hours, and we do not require appointments. Simply stop by our walk-in clinic located at 602 S. Howard Ave. in South Tampa, FL, whenever it is most convenient for you. Our experienced and compassionate staff can answer any questions you have regarding our services, practitioners, or accepted insurance plans.