Sexually Transmitted Diseases

The Florida Department of Health in Marion County provides screening, counseling, treatment and partner notification services for people who have or suspect they may have a sexually transmitted disease or infection (STD). All clients, including adolescents, are assured confidential STD clinical services by Florida law.

The clinic offers STD services at a reasonable and/or no-cost basis to adults and adolescents, regardless of their citizenship status. Costs are charged on a sliding fee scale.

STD services are provided by appointment or on a walk-in basis. Appointments are strongly encouraged. Schedule an appointment by calling our clinic at 352-629-0137. Walk-in appointment hours are Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; normal clinic hours are Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

You should consider being tested for STDs if any of the below apply to you:

• Had sexual intercourse, oral sex, or other sexual contact without the use of barriers (such as condoms or other protective devices) with someone whose STD status you do not know
• Had multiple sex partners or a partner who had multiple sex partners
• Had a partner who used/uses injection drugs

You should also consider being tested if you have ever had or are currently experiencing any of the following symptoms:

• Unusual discharge (fluid) or pus from the genitals
• Bumps or sores resembling blisters, cauliflower or pimples on the genitals, near or on the buttocks, on the groin or inner thighs, in the throat or mouth or on the lips
• Burning, itching or pain while urinating and/or frequent urination
• Pain or unusual discomfort during sex
• Bleeding during sex or while not menstruating
• A generalized rash, including the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet
• Dark urine, loose light-colored stools and a yellowing of the whites of the eyes and skin
• Abdominal pain and/or redness, swelling or soreness of the genitals

Please know that some sexually transmitted diseases do not show signs or symptoms. If you are concerned that you may be infected, it is always best to be tested (even if you have not experienced any of the above symptoms). If you have ever experienced any of these symptoms, please refrain from all sexual contact until you have been tested (and treated, if necessary).

What to expect

The clinic provides examination, treatment, consultation and educational services to individuals who currently have (or suspect they may have) an STD. These confidential services include education, family planning, obtaining PrEP, providing condoms, and testing for hepatitis, HIV, pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.