If you think you may have contracted an STD, it’s important to get tested as soon as possible.
But what does the testing process involve?
We have outlined the various procedures and why early detection is so important.
Keep reading to know more.
What is STD testing and why is it vital?
STD testing is a medical procedure used to diagnose and track the spread of certain sexually transmitted diseases. All sexually active individuals must get tested given the severity and number of consequences associated with untreated STDs.
Prompt diagnosis, treatment, and counseling can reduce the chance of serious complications, including infertility and long-term damage to internal organs.
Besides this, regular testing helps prevent unknowingly exposing partners to STDs. In short, STD testing plays an important role in protecting both the individual and those around them from serious infections.
What are various STD tests available?
There are a variety of STD tests available to individuals today. Depending on the types of bacteria or viruses suspected, different tests may be used such as urine samples, saliva swabs, or blood tests.
Vulnerable parts of an individual’s body may be swabbed to determine whether they are infected by any particular STD. For some STDs such as genital warts, visual inspection is usually sufficient for diagnosis and treatment.
However, for many STDs laboratory testing is often required to identify and accurately measure levels of antibodies in the bloodstream relating to the virus or bacteria.
With so many diseases being transmittable through intimate contact between two people, getting tested regularly is one of the best ways to ensure that you have not been exposed to an STD or, at least, are taking steps to treat them properly if you have been exposed.
How are STD tests performed, and what do they involve?
Getting tested for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) is an important step in taking care of one’s sexual health.
Many healthcare providers perform STD tests by analyzing either a blood, urine, or swab sample taken from the patient. Blood samples provide the most reliable results and can even detect HIV and syphilis.
Urine samples are used to test for bacteria-related STDs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis.
Swab samples are also mostly used to check for bacteria-related STDs but are often taken from the cervix of women or the urethra of men.
Depending on what STD is being checked for and from where it is being tested, a trained healthcare professional may administer it during a physical exam or lab test. Fortunately, regardless of age and gender identity simply talking openly with your healthcare provider about any symptoms you experience should be enough to get the appropriate test performed on you so that you can take appropriate steps in protecting your sexual health.
What are the issues associated with STD testing, & how can they be minimized?
Although STD testing is a vital part of maintaining sexual health, it does come with certain risks.
Here are some of them.
1. Mental & Emotional Impact
Chief among them is the mental and emotional impact that a positive test result can have on an individual. This can create feelings of anxiety and depression, as well as cause shame or guilt.
2. Difficult to Obtain Timely Results
Medical testing can be expensive and inaccessible in some areas, making it difficult to obtain timely results. Fortunately, there are ways to minimize these risks. Depending on the situation and geographic location, individuals may have access to affordable or free STD tests through public health departments or community-based organizations.
3. Some People Feel Uncomfortable
If a person feels uncomfortable talking to healthcare providers about STDs or accessing care due to stigma, selecting anonymous digital testing services or getting informed from reliable online resources may provide options for support and guidance without having to involve their primary care provider.
What are the benefits of STD testing, & how can it improve your health & well-being?
STD testing is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being.
It can help diagnose infections early on, which can prevent serious long-term health problems, as well as reduce the spread of infection.
It is also important to note that many sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) may not cause any noticeable symptoms so being tested regularly is necessary to ensure that you and your sexual partners are protected.
By having access to the proper screening tools, individuals can take control of their health and receive timely treatment if needed, creating a much healthier environment for everyone.
Conclusion
In conclusion, STD testing is an important part of maintaining a healthy and safe sex life. Being aware of the types of tests available and how they are performed can help individuals make informed decisions about their sexual health. Also, understanding the risks associated with these tests and how to manage them can help reduce any potential harm.
With comprehensive knowledge on the topic of STD testing, any individual can be more empowered in their sexual health decisions and more confident in their ability to protect themselves from harmful bacteria or viruses if necessary.
Women’s health should be the highest priority, especially when she is of reproductive age. This is due to the fact that women of this age range have unique needs and challenges that have to be met in order for them to remain healthy and safe.
For instance, issues such as contraception, fertility, sexual health, and mental health all need to be acknowledged at an early stage.
If you’re a woman of reproductive age, you should be visiting a gynecologist at least once a year.
But what exactly is a gynecologist?
And what can you expect during your visit?
Here’s everything you need to know about this vital healthcare provider.
What Is a Gynecologist?
A gynecologist is a health practitioner who specializes in women’s health. Many women see their primary care physician for their annual wellness exam and Pap smear but there are some occasions when it is necessary to see a gynecologist.
Life lesson: Your annual gynecologist appointment is one of the most important things you can do for your health—yet many women still don’t understand what a gynecologist does or when to see one. Here we dispel the myths and give you the facts about this essential doctor.
Reasons To See A Gynecologist
Here are some reasons why you may need to schedule an appointment with gynecologists.
A gynecologist can provide insight into a woman’s family background, allowing her to recognize her risk for certain diseases and understand the implications of passing them on to future generations.
Furthermore, by exploring a woman’s family background, she may also be able to determine whether she has an increased risk of inheriting specific hereditary conditions. A gynecologist can help to fill in gaps in family history which may help aid with individualized assessments of women’s health and any associated preventive measures that need to be taken. Having access to the knowledge and unique insights offered by a genealogist ensures that all women have greater awareness of their own potential health risks, equipping them with the information and support needed for protection of their long-term health.
When To See A Gynecologist
Women should see a gynecologist for the first time when they turn 18 or become sexually active.
Women should see a gynecologist once a year for a routine checkup, even if they are not sexually active.
If you are experiencing any changes in your body, such as discharge, pain, or irregular periods, you should make an appointment with a gynecologist.
You should also see a gynecologist if you are thinking about becoming pregnant or have any questions about contraception.
Gynecologists can also provide information and support if you have been diagnosed with an STD.
What To Expect During A Gynecologist Visit
Visiting the gynecologist can be a daunting experience, especially if you’ve never been before. But there’s no need to worry!
If you’re like most women, you probably have some questions and concerns about visiting a gynecologist. Here’s what you can expect during your first visit.
During your first visit, your doctor will likely take a medical history and perform a physical exam.
They may also order tests, such as a Pap smear or urine test, to screen for certain conditions.
Be sure to ask any questions you have so that you can feel comfortable and prepared for your next visit.
Qualifications Of A Genealogist
A gynecologist should have a medical degree from an accredited institution
They should be licensed to practice medicine in the United States
They should have completed a residency in obstetrics and gynecology
They should be board certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology
They should have experience working with patients of all ages
They should be able to provide comprehensive care for their patients, including preventative care, pregnancy care, and menopausal care.
What Is A Board-certified Gynecologist?
A board-certified gynecologist is a health professional who specializes in the reproductive and sexual health of people with female anatomy.
They seek to promote healthy reproduction, prevent diseases, diagnose and treat disorders of the reproductive system and identify any risks associated with pregnancy or motherhood.
Board-certified gynecologists are specialized experts in illnesses related to female sexuality, as well as empaths and confidants throughout significant life transitions involving reproduction.
From adolescence to menopause, gynecologists provide comprehensive annual exams and screenings, personal health advice tailored to each individual’s body and lifestyle choices, emergency care for gynecological needs, contraception counseling and access, surgical consultation for issues such as fibroids or cancer treatment.
Final Verdict
A visit to the gynecologist or women’s health clinicshould be a regular part of your healthcare regimen for maintaining a healthy reproductive system. While it’s wise to schedule an appointment here and there for any worries or concerns, regularly scheduling visits into your routine can help catch issues before they become serious.
During your appointment, you can generally expect medical history questions, a discussion about current health and lifestyle changes, advice on birth control, if necessary, and sometimes lab tests. Depending on the concern and/or doctor’s orders, they may also perform an exam to get detailed information about potential issues.
Rest assured that gynecologists are highly trained professionals and will make sure to answer any questions you may have or offer additional advice on staying healthy.
Her Smart Choice Women’s Health Center Educational Series Presents ‘What Does STD Mean?’ What Does STD Mean? – It’s a sexually transmitted disease.
If you have sex, oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse and or genital touching, you can get an STD, also called a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
You’re straight or gay, married or single, and vulnerable to STIs symptoms.
Thinking or hoping your partner doesn’t have an STI is no protection; you need to know.
What are the causes of STDs?
The causes of STDs are viral or bacterial infections. STDs that are caused due to bacterial infections are treated using antibiotics.
There is no cure for STDs caused by viral infections, but you can take measures to treat std symptoms.
What factors increase your risk of contracting an STD?
The below-mentioned factors can increase your risk of contracting an STD:
⚹ Having sex with greater than one partner
⚹ Having a sexual partner who themselves has sex with greater than one partner either currently or in the past
⚹ Having sex with a person who has an STD or STI
⚹ Having a personal history of STDs/STIs
⚹ Using intravenous drugs or if your partner uses intravenous drugs
What are the most commonly occurring STDs?
Some of the commonly occurring STDs are:
⚹ Chlamydia
⚹ Genital herpes
⚹ Gonorrhea
⚹ HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection
⚹ Syphilis
⚹ HPV (human papillomavirus) infection
⚹ Hepatitis B
⚹ Trichomoniasis
How can you prevent STDs?
The following are the top five methods to prevent STDs:
Abstinence
Abstaining from having all types of sexual contact, i.e., vaginal, oral, or anal, is the most efficient and reliable method to avoid contracting an STD. However, most individuals don’t find abstinence a practical way of dealing with the situation.
Vaccination
Getting a vaccine is a safe and effective method recommended to prevent HPV and hepatitis B. The HPV vaccine for both females and males may protect against certain common forms of HPV. It is recommended that you get all three shots (doses) before engaging in sexual activity. However, an HPV vaccine is recommended for all teen girls and females after the age of 26 and all teen boys and males after the age of 21 who were not given the three shots or doses of HPV vaccine before (at a younger age). You must also get a hepatitis B vaccine if you have not received the vaccine before (at a younger age).
Reduce the number of your sex partners
Reducing the number of sex partners can also decrease contracting an STD. It is also essential to know about the sexual history of your partner. The more significant number of partners you have, the greater your risk of getting an STD. The same is also true for your sexual partners, i.e., if they have more partners, it still increases your risk. You and your sexual partner should get tested for STDs. Moreover, both of you should share the results of your tests with each other.
Mutual monogamy
The meaning of mutual monogamy is that you have agreed to have sex with only one individual who has also decided to have sex with you. Having a long-term relationship that is mutually monogamous is among the most effective and reliable methods to prevent STDs.
Use condoms
Using male condoms made of latex correctly and consistently is incredibly effective in reducing the transmission of STDs. You must use a latex condom each time you are involved in vaginal, oral, or anal sex. You can also use a female condom while having vaginal intercourse. You should use dental dams or condoms while having oral sex and gloves during manual penetration.
In case of using a lubricant, be sure to use a water-based lubricant. It is essential to use condoms during the entire sexual act. Though condoms aren’t 100% effective in preventing STDs, they are still highly effective.
For additional information, please visit www.HerSmartChoice.com or call 323-250-9360
Depo-Provera is a birth control method for a woman. It is a type of hormone that is made up similar to progesterone. It is given as an injection by a doctor into the woman’s buttocks or arm. This shot provides protection against pregnancy for up to 14 weeks. It must be received once every 12 weeks to remain fully protected.
Three to four months after your last Depo-Provera shot, You could become pregnant. However, it may take up to a year or two to conceive for some women after they stop using their Depo shot.
Depo-Provera is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. It does not prevent the spreading of STDs. To help protect yourself from STDs, use a latex male condom each time you and your partner have sex.
Feel free to contact one of our offices to talk to one of our doctors today to determine if Depo-Provera is right for you.
What Are the Advantages of Using Depo-Provera?
There are several advantages to using Depo-Provera:
You don’t have to use it before sex, and you don’t have to remember to take it every day.
It provides long-term protection as long as you get the shot every three months.
It doesn’t interfere with sexual activity.
It’s over 99% effective.
It’s less expensive than the Pill.
Are There Side Effects Associated With Depo-Provera?
Depo-Provera can cause some side effects, including:
Irregular menstrual periods, or no periods at all
Nervousness
Headaches
Depression
Dizziness
Acne
Changes in appetite
Weight gain
Loss of bone mineral density
Can Any Woman Use Depo-Provera?
Most women can use Depo-Provera. However, it is not recommended for women who have:
Unexplained vaginal bleeding
Liver disease
Breast cancer
Blood clots
What Are the Disadvantages of Using Depo-Provera?
There are some disadvantages to using Depo-Provera, it can cause unwanted side effects, it does not provide protection against sexually transmitted diseases, it can cause irregular menstrual periods, if you want to become pregnant, you need to stop taking it Depo-Provera several months ahead of time, and the final disadvantage is you need to do regular doctor visits might be required.
Feel free to contact one of our offices to talk to one of our doctors today to determine if Depo-Provera is right for you.
The diagnosis of a STD(s) or sexually transmitted diseases can be devastating for most men and women. It may raise several questions in their minds. At the same time, it can also increase concerns about how they can overcome the infection.
The mixed bag of emotions, as well as the health issues that have been diagnosed, need to be managed carefully in order to avoid worsening the condition. Men and women who are suffering from a STD(s) are advised to follow the guidelines given below in order to manage their health in a safe and effective manner and overcome the emotional turmoil caused due to the same.
Doctor, patient and urine test cup. Physician giving pee container to a woman in clinic or hospital emergency room. Urinary sample for medical exam in hospital. Checkup for infection.
What are STDs?
When the doctor informs the patients that he or she suffers from a STD, there is a need to understand what it exactly means. Sometimes a diagnosis of a STD is made by patients themselves, based on the specific symptoms they develop. In either case, it is important to understand what a STD(s) means and the different forms of these conditions so that patients can seek appropriate treatment.
A proper understanding of sexually transmitted diseases, how they spread, the various routes of transmission of these infections and the available treatment modalities can help patients recover faster.
A STD(s) or sexually transmitted diseases refer to the infective conditions that are most often, though not exclusively, transmitted through sexual intercourse. The common sexually transmitted infections include HIV, syphilis, genital herpes, chlamydia, genital warts, and gonorrhea. Hepatitis, and trichomoniasis are also common infectious disorders transmitted through sexual intercourse.
Earlier, STDs were referred to as venereal diseases. What makes STDs a serious concern is they are some of the most common contagious diseases. Also, some forms of STDs tend to produce recurring symptoms while some forms are difficult to cure completely.
It is estimated that more than 65 million people in America suffer from incurable STDs. More than 20 million new cases of STDs are reported every year of which nearly 50% are young people between the ages of 15 and 24 years.
Since STDs are known to have long-term emotional and physical consequences, it is important to be aware of the best ways to manage these conditions. Regular treatment coupled with the adoption of safe sex practices can help men and women avoid future sexually transmitted infections.
Hence, the knowledge of how to avoid STDs forms the crux of the management of these infections. Patients who are diagnosed with a STD should find out why or how they might have contracted the infection and how they can avoid such infections in the future. This forms the first step that they should follow after the diagnosis of a STD.
How do sexually transmitted diseases spread?
STDs spread from one person to another through vaginal, anal, and oral sex. STDs such as trichomoniasis may also spread through contact with moist or damp objects such as wet clothing, towels, and toilet seats, though it is more commonly transmitted via sexual contact.
Men and women are at a high risk of STDs if they:
Have multiple sex partner.
Have sexual intimacy with someone who has had multiple partners.
Practice unprotected sex or do not use condoms during intercourse.
Share needles while injecting intravenous drugs.
Have used contaminated needles.
Had a transfusion of infected blood.
Trade sex for drugs and money.
These risk factors make it clear that STDs can also get transmitted through routes other than sexual intercourse. Hence, it is advisable for men and women to avoid blaming themselves or their partner when they are diagnosed with these conditions.
It should be noted that blaming the partner when the infection has actually been contracted due to the use of an infected needle during the administration of injection or blood transfusion may only strain their relations.
Men and women should rather focus on avoiding the factors that may increase their risk of repeated STD in the future.
It should also be noted that the pathogens that cause STDs can reside in the blood, semen, vaginal secretions, and even saliva of the infected person. Hence, care should be taken to avoid vaginal, anal, as well as oral sex with a partner known to have a STD. Some STDs such as hepatitis B can spread through skin contact and the sharing of personal items like toothbrushes and razors.
Men and women diagnosed with STD should make an effort to educate themselves about the possible modes of transmission of the infection so that the spread of the pathogen to others can be prevented.
Treatment of STDs
The diagnosis of any STD must be followed by the proper treatment of the specific condition. It is advisable to seek advice of a healthcare practitioner for the management of a STD. The doctor would not just prescribe appropriate medications for treating the infection, but also provide advice regarding the best ways to avoid the spread of the disease. Depending on the infection, the patient will be advised the following treatments for the STD:
Antibiotics: Antibiotics administered in a single dose are usually prescribed for patients diagnosed with STDs of bacterial and parasitic origin. Antibiotics are effective for the management of STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and trichomoniasis.
Antibiotics act in a variety of ways to control the infection. They may kill the bacteria directly or create an environment that makes their survival difficult.
In most cases, chlamydia and gonorrhea are treated at the same time as these two infections tend to appear together.
Different antibiotics may be prescribed to patients in varying dosages and durations based on the specific infection and the age of the patients.
Once the antibiotic treatment is started, the entire course of the medication must be completed as recommended. If patients feel they would not be able to take the medication as prescribed or complete its entire course, they should inform the physician so that she/he can prescribe a shorter and simpler course.
Additionally, patients should abstain from sex during treatment and for seven to ten days after they have completed the course of antibiotics as well as until the sores have healed completely. Experts suggest retesting after about three months to rule out the presence of reinfection.
Antiviral drugs: treatment of STDs caused due to viruses are treated using antiviral drugs. For example; patients diagnosed with herpes or HIV are advised to use antiviral drugs.
A daily suppressive therapy using an antiviral drug can help patients have a lower risk of recurrence of herpes. However, it is still possible for the patients to transmit the infection to their partner during sexual intercourse. Hence, the physician may also advise the partner of the infected patient to undergo antiviral therapy.
While there are no medications to cure AIDS (Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) caused due to HIV (Human immunodeficiency Virus) infection completely, patients may be prescribed antiviral drugs to keep the infection in check for several years.
Regular treatment of patients diagnosed with HIV/AIDS using antiviral drugs can help to control the multiplication of the virus thereby slowing down the progress of the infection. However, patients may still carry the virus and transmit the infection to the partner. Hence, couples need to follow appropriate precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the infection.
Patients are advised to seek treatment for HIV and other STDs at the earliest once the diagnosis is made. The sooner they start the treatment, the more effective the results will be..
Taking an antiviral medication exactly as recommended would help to heal the sores, relieve the symptoms, and reduce the viral count thereby reducing the risk of serious complications.
Partner notification and preventive treatment
Patients suffering from a STD are required to inform their sexual partners about the diagnosis as they are likely to spread the infection during sexual intercourse.
They should inform their current sexual partners as well as other partners they have had intimate sexual contact with over the past one year. The symptoms of most STDs do not become evident for a period ranging from a few weeks to months. Hence, even if the current or past partners seem to be in good health and do not have any evident symptoms, they must be informed about the diagnosis so that they can get tested. In case, the tests show positive results, the partners should also seek appropriate treatment for the infection.
Guidelines of partner notification
All states have different guidelines related to the disclosure of the diagnosis of STDs. Most states require certain STDs to be reported to the concerned health departments. Public health departments usually employ expert disease intervention specialists who can provide help for notifying the partners.
Official yet confidential notification to the partner can help to limit the spread of sexually transmitted diseases, particularly syphilis and HIV. This practice can also steer the high-risk patients toward counseling and early diagnosis and treatment.
Patients who have had a STD once are more likely to contract the same or another infection again in the future. Hence, partner notification is essential to reduce the incidence of reinfection. Patients diagnosed with STDs should follow these guidelines so that they can protect the health of others while also avoiding reinfection in the future.
Here are some more recommendations that patients should follow when diagnosed with STDs
Recommendations for patients diagnosed with a STD
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Pregnant women diagnosed with STDs should contact a physician to learn more about the risk of transmitting the infection to the baby. Certain types of STDs such as HIV, gonorrhea, hepatitis B, chlamydia, and genital herpes are known to spread to the fetus or infant during pregnancy and labor.
STDs in pregnant women may also increase the risk of complications such as premature labor and infection in the uterus. Some STDs like syphilis may cross the placental barrier and infect the fetus.
Women should also be aware of the risk of transmission of the infection to the baby during breastfeeding. Women who have HIV should refrain from breastfeeding to prevent the spread of infection to the baby.
STDs like trichomoniasis require women to wait until the course of the antibiotic is over before they can start breastfeeding the baby. Women diagnosed with syphilis or herpes can breastfeed provided they do not have active sores on any part of the breasts.
How to reduce the spread of STDs?
Men and women should learn effective ways to reduce the spread of STDs in the future. Here are some precautionary measures recommended to reduce the spread of STDs:
Avoiding any form of sexual contact
The use of barrier methods of contraception such as condoms during vaginal, oral, or anal sex.
Avoiding multiple sexual partners
Discussing each other’s sexual history before intimate contact with a new partner
Avoiding the use of contaminated needles
Receiving vaccination for hepatitis B and HPV
Counseling
It can be common for men and women to experience emotional challenges when they are diagnosed with a sexually transmitted disease. In most cases, the emotional upheaval is associated with a feeling of guilt, shame, and even helplessness. Questions may also be raised about the source of the infection and the trust issues in the relationship especially when the infection is contracted through the partner.
Hence, patients are advised to undergo individual and family counseling to prevent mental stress, strained relations, and more serious complications such as depression.
Conclusion
Taking proper treatment can help to relieve the symptoms of STDs and ensure a faster recovery of patients. At the same time, individual and family counseling also forms an integral part of the management of sexually transmitted diseases.
Adequate precautionary measures must be taken to prevent the recurrence of the same or of other sexually transmitted infections. Comprehensive management of STDs keeping in mind the physical and emotional symptoms can help patients and their partners to stay healthy while enjoying safe sex.
Her Smart Choice Women’s Health Center Educational Series Presents ‘What Does STD Mean?’ What Does STD Mean? – It’s sexually transmitted disease.
If you have sex, oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse and or genital touching, you can get an STD, also called a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
You’re straight or gay, married or single, and vulnerable to STIs symptoms.
Thinking or hoping your partner doesn’t have an STI is no protection; you need to know.
What are the causes of STDs?
The causes of STDs are viral or bacterial infections. STDs that are caused due to bacterial infections are treated using antibiotics.
There is no cure for STDs caused by viral infections, but you can take measures to treat their symptoms.
What factors increase your risk of contracting an STD?
The below-mentioned factors can increase your risk of contracting an STD:
⚹ Having sex with greater than one partner
⚹ Having a sexual partner who themselves has sex with greater than one partner either currently or in the past
⚹ Having sex with a person who has an STD or STI
⚹ Having a personal history of STDs/STIs
⚹ Using intravenous drugs or if your partner uses intravenous drugs
What are the most commonly occurring STDs?
Some of the commonly occurring STDs are:
⚹ Chlamydia
⚹ Genital herpes
⚹ Gonorrhea
⚹ HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection
⚹ Syphilis
⚹ HPV (human papillomavirus) infection
⚹ Hepatitis B
⚹ Trichomoniasis
How can you prevent STDs?
The following are the top five methods to prevent STDs:
Abstinence
Abstaining from having all types of sexual contact, i.e., vaginal, oral, or anal, is the most efficient and reliable method to avoid contracting an STD. However, most individuals don’t find abstinence a practical way of dealing with the situation.
Vaccination
Getting a vaccine is a safe and effective method recommended to prevent HPV and hepatitis B. The HPV vaccine for both females and males may protect against certain common forms of HPV. It is recommended that you get all three shots (doses) before engaging in sexual activity. However, an HPV vaccine is recommended for all teen girls and females after the age of 26 and all teen boys and males after the age of 21 who were not given the three shots or doses of HPV vaccine before (at a younger age). You must also get a hepatitis B vaccine if you have not received the vaccine before (at a younger age).
Reduce the number of your sex partners
Reducing the number of sex partners can also decrease contracting an STD. It is also essential to know about the sexual history of your partner. The more significant number of partners you have, the greater your risk of getting an STD. The same is also true for your sexual partners, i.e., if they have more partners, it still increases your risk. You and your sexual partner should get tested for STDs. Moreover, both of you should share the results of your tests with each other.
Mutual monogamy
The meaning of mutual monogamy is that you have agreed to have sex with only one individual who has also decided to have sex with you. Having a long-term relationship that is mutually monogamous is among the most effective and reliable methods to prevent STDs.
Use condoms
Using male condoms made of latex correctly and consistently is incredibly effective in reducing the transmission of STDs. You must use a latex condom each time you are involved in vaginal, oral, or anal sex. You can also use a female condom while having vaginal intercourse. You should use dental dams or condoms while having oral sex and gloves during manual penetration.
In case of using a lubricant, be sure to use a water-based lubricant. It is essential to use condoms during the entire sexual act. Though condoms aren’t 100% effective in preventing STDs, they are still highly effective.
For additional information, please visit www.HerSmartChoice.com or call 323-250-9360
Her Smart Choice Women’s Health Center Educational Series Presents ‘Why Do You Need to Get Tested For STDs?’Why Do You Need to Get Tested For STDs?
More than 65 million Americans have an incurable STD. Each year, 20 million new cases are reported; half of these infections are among people ages 15 to 24 and they can have long-term consequences.
Why You Need To Get Tested For STDs
The risk of STDs/STIs is particularly high among sexually active adolescents and young adults. As an example, in the United States, the rate of reported cases of chlamydia among women are highest among ages 20 to 24, followed by ages 15 to 19. In 2018, the incidence of chlamydia in these age brackets was 4,064 and 3,306 cases per 100,000 persons, respectively, compared with the total incidence of 540 cases per 100,000 persons.
Her Smart Choice Your Life. Your Decision. Your Smart Ch♀ice.
#hersmartchoice #hscmc #birthcontrol #yourdecision #stds #stis #chlamydia #gonorrhea #syphilis #trichomoniasis Why Do You Need to Get Tested For STDs? Her Smart Choice Women’s Health Center Educational Series Presents ‘Why Do You Need to Get Tested For STDs?’ Why Do You Need to Get Tested For STDs? More than 65 million Americans have an incurable STD. Each year, 20 million new cases are reported; half of these infections are among people ages 15 to 24 and they can have long-term consequences. The risk of STDs/STIs is particularly high among sexually active adolescents and young adults. As an example, in the United States, the rate of reported cases of chlamydia among women are highest among ages 20 to 24, followed by ages 15 to 19. In 2018, the incidence of chlamydia in these age brackets was 4,064 and 3,306 cases per 100,000 persons, respectively, compared with the total incidence of 540 cases per 100,000 persons. Why Do You Need to Get Tested For STDs? Her Smart Choice Women’s Health Center Educational Series Presents ‘Why Do You Need to Get Tested For STDs?’ Why Do You Need to Get Tested For STDs? More than 65 million Americans have an incurable STD. Each year, 20 million new cases are reported; half of these infections are among people ages 15 to 24 and they can have long-term consequences. The risk of STDs/STIs is particularly high among sexually active adolescents and young adults. As an example, in the United States, the rate of reported cases of chlamydia among women are highest among ages 20 to 24, followed by ages 15 to 19. In 2018, the incidence of chlamydia in these age brackets was 4,064 and 3,306 cases per 100,000 persons, respectively, compared with the total incidence of 540 cases per 100,000 persons.
The risk of STDs/STIs is particularly high among sexually active adolescents and young adults. As an example, in the United States, the rate of reported cases of chlamydia among women are highest among ages 20 to 24, followed by ages 15 to 19. In 2018, the incidence of chlamydia in these age brackets was 4,064 and 3,306 cases per 100,000 persons, respectively, compared with the total incidence of 540 cases per 100,000 persons.
The risk of STDs/STIs is particularly high among sexually active adolescents and young adults. As an example, in the United States, the rate of reported cases of chlamydia among women are highest among ages 20 to 24, followed by ages 15 to 19. In 2018, the incidence of chlamydia in these age brackets was 4,064 and 3,306 cases per 100,000 persons, respectively, compared with the total incidence of 540 cases per 100,000 persons.
Her Smart Choice Women’s Health Center Educational Series Presents ‘How Do You Know You Have an STD?’
Five (5) of the top ten (10) reportable diseases in the United States are STDs. Data from the CDC indicates that in 2017, in the United States, a combined total of more than 2.2 million new cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis were reported.
The global incidence of four curable sexually transmitted diseases (chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis) is estimated at over 357 million cases. Many cases go undiagnosed and untreated.
Screening is an important approach to identify and treat infected individuals, who would otherwise go undetected. Risk assessment through routine sexual histories is important to appropriately target at-risk individuals for STI screening. This includes assessment for risk factors that place individuals at increased risk for STI, such as current or past history of STI or a history of multiple sex partners.
In addition to specific behavioral risk factors, demographic factors (“risk groups”) that are associated with high prevalence of STIs also be assessed.
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Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections, which are spread from one person to another by coming into sexual contact with an infected person. A person who has a sexually transmitted infection (STI) can pass the infection to other people by way of contact with their skin, mouth, genitals, body fluids or rectum. Anyone having sexual contact-oral, vaginal or anal sex- with an infected person can get the STI. It is not necessary to exhibit symptoms of an STD. Even if no symptoms are present, your health may be affected. Although treatment and cures exist for some STDs, not all of them can be treated. Since STDs are highly preventable, prevention is always the best option.
What are the causes of STDs?
The causes of STDs are viral or bacterial infections. STDs that are caused due to bacterial infections are treated using antibiotics. There is no cure for STDs that are caused by viral infections, but you can take measures to treat their symptoms.
What factors increase your risk of contracting an STD?
The below-mentioned factors can increase your risk of contracting an STD:
Having sex with greater than one partner
Having a sexual partner who themselves have sex with greater with one partner either currently or in the past
Having sex with a person who has an STD or STI
Having a personal history of STDs/STIs
Using intravenous drugs or if your partner uses intravenous drugs
What are the most commonly occurring STDs?
Some of the commonly occurring STDs are:
Chlamydia
Genital herpes
Gonorrhea
HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection
Syphilis
HPV (human papillomavirus) infection
Hepatitis B
Trichomoniasis
How can you prevent STDs?
The following are the top five methods to prevent STDs:
Abstinence
Abstaining from having all types of sexual contact; i.e., vaginal, oral or anal is the most efficient and reliable method to avoid contracting an STD. However, most individuals don’t find abstinence a practical method of dealing with the situation.
Vaccination
Getting a vaccine is a safe and effective method that is recommended to prevent HPV and hepatitis B. The HPV vaccine for both females and males may protect against certain common forms of HPV. It is recommended that you get all the three shots (doses) before engaging in sexual activity. However, an HPV vaccine is recommended for all the teen girls and females after the age of 26 years and all the teen boys and males after the age of 21 years who were not given the three shots or doses of HPV vaccine before (at a younger age). You must also get a hepatitis B vaccine in case you had not received the vaccine before (at a younger age).
Reduce the number of your sex partners
Reducing the number of sex partners can also decrease the risk of contracting an STD. It is also important to know about the sexual history of your partner. The greater number of partners you have, the greater your risk of getting an STD. The same is also true for your sexual partners, i.e., if they have more partners, then it still increases your risk. You and your sexual partner should get tested for STDs. Moreover, both of you should share the results of your tests with each other.
Mutual monogamy
The meaning of mutual monogamy is that you have agreed to have sex with only one individual who has also agreed to have sex with only you. Having a long-term relationship that is mutually monogamous is among the most effective and reliable methods to prevent STDs. You should also have an honest and open conversation regarding sex with your partner.
Use condoms
Using male condoms made of latex correctly and consistently is greatly effective in reducing the transmission of STDs. You must use a latex condom each time you are involved in vaginal, oral or anal sex. You can also use a female condom while having vaginal intercourse. You should use dental dams or condoms while having oral sex and gloves during manual penetration.
In case of using a lubricant, be sure to use a water-based lubricant. It is important to use condoms during the entire sexual act. Though condoms aren’t 100% effective in preventing STDs, they are still extremely effective when used correctly. Hence, learn the method to correctly use condoms.
You don’t get extra protection by using condoms that have a spermicide as a lubricant. On the contrary, frequently using some spermicides may increase your risk of contracting HIV.
Rinsing or washing after having sex may help in removing the infectious material present on the skin. Women should pass urine after sex as it reduces the risk of getting UTIs (urinary tract infections).
Some more tips to prevent STDs:
Avoid having sex with any person who has genital sores, discharge, rash, or any other symptoms.
Avoid sharing underclothes or towels.
Wash before and after having sexual intercourse.
Both you and your partner should get tested for STDs, especially HIV before getting involved in sexual activity.
Avoid having sex when you are drunk or have taken drugs. In case you suffer from alcohol or drug abuse, seek help. Individuals who are on drugs or drunk while having sex often don’t follow safe sex practices.
Avoid getting involved in risky sexual practices. Sex acts that break or tear the skin increase your risk of contracting an STD. Germs can pass by way of even tiny cuts, which don’t bleed. The risk is increased with anal sex as rectal tissues may tear easily. STDs can also be transmitted by body fluids. Your risk is highly increased if you have unprotected sex with a person infected with an STD.
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