Free STD Testing in Joliet, IL

Teen birth rates seem to be a hot topic of discussion, but not their rising rate of transmittable sexual diseases. Both coincide, but only one is being discussed. There is accessible data on STDs, it’s just mixed in with county and metro reports.

Not all the numbers apply, but they paint an overall picture that shows sexually transmitted diseases are affecting people’s health. Unfortunately, young adults and those in their teens are popping up more often with a STD than other generations.

What this is caused by can be endlessly debated. Now it’s time to start “fixing the problem”. This starts with finding a testing center.

Have you been around for at least 18 years? Agape Missions NFP, Plainfield Rd., will test any adult if they are of age. They work closely with those recently incarcerated, and this does result in occasional extended waiting periods. Since they are a mission and not looking for profit, their STI tests are often free. Donations are appreciated, along with new volunteers.

Will County Health Department and Community Center is a convenient stop for many in town. This means crowds every day of the week. They also care for other physical health concerns, along with running some mental health programs. Their website is extensive, but you do have to sign-up for access. Once you do, you are part of their network. For some this is beneficial, but others value their privacy. You also can’t walk-in to see a physician, planning ahead is necessary.

Anyone looking for Planned Parenthood will have to go outside of the community, but only a few miles. There are two offices within 20 miles and can see to all your sexual health needs. They’ll even supply you with condoms at no charge to help you stay STD free. Some insurance agencies do not accept certain medical claims so check with your agent first. If you’re not covered, they can work with you to charge you a rate that you can afford.

HIV is a virus that can eventually attack your immune system. There isn’t a cure, yet, but if it is caught before becoming AIDS it is possible to manage it. Early detection is key, which translates into testing.

Wherever you’re on Glenwood Ave., look for the Regional CARE Association. Started in 1996, they deal solely with AIDS and HIV. Testing is anonymous and free, since they care for patients in and out of the community their waiting room is usually crowded. No one is ever discriminated against, and this has also lead to their popularity.

Proactive Community Services is in a neighboring community. Their programs try to support every part of life, and this includes patients’ health. HIV testing, care and support are only a few services they try to regularly provide to the community. Since there are so many programs people are constantly coming and going. You also need to be considered “at risk” in order to qualify for their services.

Aunt Marthas Youth Service Center is trying to respond to the growing crisis among teens. An organization based in the community, children 12 and older are their main focus. Testing can be free-of-charge, though parental consent could be required. You can also get vaccinated against HPV when you are there.

Joliet residents aren’t always ready to travel to another community, even though they know there’s a chance of an embarrassing meeting at a local STI clinic. If this is your dilemma, what about a private STD lab? You’ll get to be discreet and still won’t have to pay a lot, if any, extra expense.

Guess what, sex education only deals with abstinence and the basics. Some say this is why bacterial infections are becoming more commonplace in teenagers.

Even though schools aren’t the place to go for education about your sexual health, there are programs in the community that can fill in the missing pieces. Planned Parenthood has been doing this for more than a century, and while they might have the longest record they are not the only ones.

Regional CARE Association is desperately trying to make a difference in communities that are considered to be “in danger”. Sometimes it limits who they can help, but not when it comes to education. They believe that in order to bring about positive change, everyone must be informed. Classes and programs are regularly held, along with advertised events.

Pamphlets and leaflets are also at many private and public clinics, sometimes by the door where you can discreetly grab one. There is information available, you only have to go out and get it.

Hunt and hike during the day, then head into the Windy City for a fun night. There’s so much to do in Joliet that it’s impossible to accomplish it all. One thing that you can do is to have yourself checked for sexually transmitted infections. It can even be added in as a quick stop on your way to the National Tallgrass Prairie.