Free STD Testing in Bridgeport, CT

Chlamydia is on the rise, and Syphilis is also increasing at an alarming rate.

The statistics are showing that everyone is at risk for contracting a venereal disease. African Americans are also among those with the greatest risk, and women often test positive for a STD more often than men. While these statistics were not particularly surprising to health professionals, the growing number of older Caucasian men who are also being diagnosed with a sexually transmitted disease is causing concern.

• In 2007 there were 1,167 Chlamydia incidents reported compared to 1,294 in 2011.
• The Syphilis rate increased by three percent between 2007 and 2011.
• Gonorrhea incidents for Caucasian men ages 20 to 24 in 2011 was 29 compared to 176 reported cases in African American men in the same age group.

Even though sexual education classes can improve students’ health, this is still not a requirement in the public school system. Students are taught the basics regarding sexual development and HIV/AIDS, but any other information included is left up to the discretion of the city school board.

Unfortunately instead of teaching sexual education classes, most public schools rely on the abstinence only program recommended by the federal government. While abstinence is effective at reducing the number of teenage pregnancies reported each year, it has very little impact on preventing or slowing the spread of STDs.

The Herpes virus can be some through casual touch. Without this information teens will continually be at risk, and  why the STD rate is so high in young adults. Regular Herpes testing in Bridgeport can slow down the spread of this virus. Regular HIV testing in Bridgeport is also necesssary.

It is hard to believe that this picturesque city is seeing a rise in STD rates.  One of the main causes is its close proximity to NYC. With residents visiting the “Big Apple” for entertainment it is not uncommon for them to unknowingly come home with an STD.

The lack of comprehensive education classes in area schools is also contributing to the problem.

While the majority of residents in Bridgeport are able to afford regular testing, there is a shortage of health centers open to the public. Without the necessary facilities getting tested for STDs normally entails long mornings and afternoons standing in line, and sometimes there is not enough time in the day for everyone to be seen by a health care professional. Due to the inconvenience associated with these screenings, many residents simply choose to ignore their sexual health.

There are a few health facilities located throughout the city, but anonymity is often a concern. Mobile testing and public HIV clinics often leave you sitting for hours, ensuring that everyone you see knows why you are there. STI clinics can give you same-day results, and you don’t even have to use your insurance. This is just one more layer of privacy that can help put your mind at ease.