Archives for October 2021

How Long Can Trichomoniasis Be Dormant?

by Leave a Comment

Do you know what’s the most common curable STD in America? You may be surprised. The answer is a condition called trichomoniasis, or “trich.” This sexually transmitted infection (STI) is primarily asymptomatic, with only about 30% of people showing symptoms.

In fact, many people have trichomoniasis and don’t even realize it! So, how long can trichomoniasis be dormant in your body? Read on as we explain it all to you.

Here at Rapid STD Testing, we offer quick and confidential STD testing for anybody who needs our services. With over 2500 convenient locations, all you have to do is place an order for your testing panel online and then come into our office for same-day STD testing. It’s fast, easy, and non-invasive.  

What Is Trichomoniasis?

Unfortunately, trichomoniasis, or “trich,” is a primarily asymptomatic STD.

What is trichomoniasis, exactly? The infection is caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. That may sound scary, but trichomoniasis is very easy to cure with antibiotics. Women are more susceptible to trichomoniasis than men, and older women are even more vulnerable.

The CDC considers trich the most common curable STD in America, with over two million infections alone in 2018, more than Chlamydia and gonorrhea combined. Since around 70% of people don’t show symptoms, that means about 1.4 million people are walking around unaware they have a trich infection.

If you’re one of those people, you could pass trichomoniasis to your sex partners unknowingly. For this reason, you can see why getting regular STD testing is so important. Fortunately, it’s easy to get a rapid STD test from one of our convenient locations.

To get a trichomoniasis test, all you have to do is give a urine sample. You can order the testing panel from us right now, and you’ll have confidential results within one to three days after you give your specimen.

Risk factors for trichomoniasis include:

  •       Unprotected sex
  •       Multiple sexual partners
  •       Prior history of STIs
  •       Prior history of trichomoniasis

How Is Trichomoniasis Transmitted?

You can spread trichomoniasis through sexual intercourse or sexual contact, which is the most common method. The parasite and resulting infection usually occur in the vagina, the vulva, or the urethra of both men and women. If you have unprotected sex with an infected person, you have a high chance of contracting trichomoniasis.

One of the most common questions we get here at Rapid STD Testing is, “Can you get trichomoniasis if no one cheats?” Well, here’s the answer: Yes, it’s technically possible, but not very likely. If you’ve just gotten into a relationship, it’s possible your partner was unaware they had the STD before you were exclusive. In that case, your partner could have trich even though they didn’t cheat.

You can also contract trichomoniasis by touching the damp clothing or towels of an infected person, by sharing sex toys, through dirty bathwater, or even in public pools. If you’re sexually active, the best course of action is to order a trichomoniasis test from us at Rapid STD Testing and then sit down and have an open discussion with your partner about STDs and your sex life.

Trichomoniasis Symptoms and Risks

Trichomoniasis symptoms (when they show) vary between men and women, and it’s more likely for women to show symptoms than men.

Trichomoniasis Symptoms Among Men

Since men are less likely to show symptoms, most only seek treatment for trichomoniasis because their female partners get a positive diagnosis.

Here at Rapid STD Testing, we offer quick and confidential trichomoniasis testing for men. If you test positive, we’ll get you started on the right course so you can get prompt treatment.

Remember, the infection usually takes place in the urethra inside the penis. The signs and symptoms of trichomoniasis in men include:

  •       White penile discharge
  •       General itching or irritation in the genital area
  •       Swelling and redness of the penis
  •       Burning sensation after urinating
  •       Burning sensation after ejaculating
  •       Pain during sexual intercourse

If left untreated in men, trichomoniasis can have a range of adverse effects, including urethral stricture disease, infertility, prostatitis (swollen prostate gland), and epididymitis, which is the inflammation of the tube that stores and carries sperm. It can also cause chronic urinary tract infections or lead to prostate cancer.

Trichomoniasis Symptoms Among Women

Women are at a much higher risk of contracting trichomoniasis, and older women are particularly vulnerable. Since about 70% of women don’t even know they have trichomoniasis, many end up passing it to their partners while being none the wiser.

By getting regular STD tests, you can help catch STDs early and get treatment as quickly as possible—hopefully before you infect a partner.

The symptoms of trichomoniasis in women include:

  •       Itching or irritation in the genital area
  •       Burning sensation when urinating
  •       Inflammation of the labia
  •       Green, yellow, or grey discharge
  •       Strong or noticeable change in vaginal odor
  •       Pain or discomfort during intercourse

Many women believe that a trichomoniasis infection is simply a yeast infection since many symptoms are the same. However, they’re two different infections, and they require different treatment methods.

You may have an infection and not even know it. When trichomoniasis is untreated in women (especially pregnant women), it can have devastating effects:

  •       Premature delivery
  •       Low birth weight
  •       Higher risk of contracting HIV
  •       Risk of infertility
  •       Pelvic inflammatory disease

If you experience any symptoms of trichomoniasis, you need to get an STD test right away so you can seek proper medical advice and treatment.

How Long Can Trichomoniasis Be Dormant in Men and Women?

If you think you might have an STD, you’re probably feeling anxious. You’ve also probably gotten stuck in the never-ending cycle of late-night Googling, searching things like “Trichomoniasis dormant in body,” or “Trichomoniasis symptoms,” and then looking at all the scary pictures. Sound familiar?

First, take a deep breath and stop freaking yourself out. Remember, if you do have trichomoniasis, it’s an easily curable STD.

Next, get yourself in the know by ordering an STD test from us at Rapid STD Testing. You’ll feel much greater peace of mind once you know that you took charge and got tested. Here at Rapid STD Testing, we’ll help you get the trichomoniasis test you need quickly and with the utmost confidentiality.

Can Trichomoniasis Be Dormant In My Body?

So, how long can trichomoniasis actually be dormant in men and women? To start, it’s a common misconception that trichomoniasis can essentially “lay dormant” in your body. However, if you have trichomoniasis and don’t know it, you could potentially transmit trichomoniasis to your partners or suffer the harmful effects and medical conditions resulting from chronic infection.

Trichomoniasis is a parasitic infection, so there’s no “dormancy.” You either have it, or you don’t. However, there lies the problem: In the 30% of cases in which symptoms do occur, they typically present between five and 28 days after exposure. You could have trich for an entire month before you ever show any physical signs.

Technically, if you don’t show symptoms, you could have trichomoniasis for years without knowing—even ten years or more. However, that can only happen if you don’t get an STD test and find out your status. Getting regular tests will drastically reduce the chances of having an STD like trich without knowing it and then passing it along to your sexual partners.

Since trichomoniasis can be dormant in men and women for a week to a month, even years, it’s clear why regular STD testing is so important. Every person deserves a happy and healthy sex life, and that starts with two things—using protection every single time you have sex and getting regular STD tests. 

Can I Have Trichomoniasis Even Though My Partner Doesn’t?

Is it possible to have trichomoniasis if your partner doesn’t? Yes, but it’s unlikely. According to the CDC, about 2.1% of women and about 0.5% of men in the U.S. have trichomoniasis. If you have trichomoniasis and then have unprotected sex with your partner, the chances of passing the infection along to them are high.

If you’re having protected sex by using a condom consistently and correctly every single time, your chances of contracting trich or any other STD are much lower. So, yes, it is possible to have trichomoniasis if your partner doesn’t, but if you have unprotected sex, the infection will inevitably spread to them.

Trichomoniasis Treatment and Prevention

Trichomoniasis Treatment

If you order an STD test from us at Rapid STD Testing and find out that you have trichomoniasis, please don’t panic. Even though you have an STD, trich is easily curable. A doctor will prescribe you one of two medications: either Flagyl® (metronidazole) or Tindamax® (tinidazole).

By taking a round of antibiotics for five to seven days, you can cure trichomoniasis easily and quickly. However, it’s essential to continue the entire course of medication, even if you start to feel better during the middle of your trichomoniasis treatment.

Another common problem is people who become reinfected with trichomoniasis after they have undergone treatment. According to the CDC, about one in five people becomes reinfected within three months of successful treatment. If you’re sexually active, be sure to use protection every single time you have sexual contact with somebody else to avoid getting reinfected.

The good news is that a single course of antibiotics cures 95% of trich-infected women. If you test positive, you need to tell your partner immediately so they can seek treatment too. You could still pass it back and forth if one of you receives treatment while the other does not. 

Avoid having sexual intercourse for at least one week after finishing the medication. Then, after three months, take another test to ensure that you’re still in good health.

Trichomoniasis Prevention

To prevent getting trichomoniasis, use the barrier method (like a condom or dental dam) every time you have sex. Using protection is your best chance to avoid STDs if you’re sexually active. However, the only way to achieve 100% prevention is by practicing abstinence.

Another way to prevent trichomoniasis is to get regular STD tests. If you always know your status, you don’t have to worry about accidentally passing on trichomoniasis (or another STD) to your sexual partners.

At Rapid STD Testing, we offer the full 10-panel STD test, including trichomoniasis. Simply order a testing panel from us, and if it’s positive, we’ll help you get the treatment you need. Within one to three days, you’ll have quick and confidential results that won’t go on your permanent medical record.

Get an STD Test Today and Take Charge of Your Sexual Health

So, how long can trichomoniasis be dormant in your body? Technically, trich doesn’t lie dormant, but it does take from five to 28 days to show symptoms. Asymptomatic people could have it for years without knowing, which is why it’s critical for all sexually active people to get regular STD tests.

Order a full test panel or visit a Rapid STD Testing center today and get yourself in the know. 

Can You Get Herpes from Sharing a Drink?

by Leave a Comment

If your current sexual partner revealed that they tested positive for herpes, you might question the status of your sexual health. Could you be infected even though you do not have visible genital herpes or cold sores? Can you get herpes from sharing a drink?

While unlikely, it is possible to become infected with herpes after sharing a drink with an infected person. You can also contract and spread the virus even if you do not notice visible sores.

The threat of sexually transmitted diseases it essential to undergo frequent testing if you are sexually active. Contact us at Rapid STD Testing for a rapid STD test today.

How Long Can Herpes Be Exposed in the Air?

Visible genital herpes and cold sores can come and go sporadically. However, once the herpes virus has found a host body, it remains there permanently. If your partner has herpes, you are right to be concerned with ways to protect yourself from also contracting the virus.

You should avoid having sexual relations with your partner if they are in the middle of an active outbreak. Abstaining for a time from oral, anal, and vaginal sex will decrease the risk of transmission.

Frequently cleaning anything that comes into contact with your partner’s sores or your partner’s bodily fluids and saliva is also wise. However, there is no need to be overly cautious about the virus surviving on surfaces or as airborne particles. The herpes virus needs a host to survive.

At maximum, the herpes virus can survive without a host and in the open air for roughly 10 seconds. After 10 seconds, the fragile herpes virus dies from air exposure. Herpes reacts so poorly to air exposure that doctors recommend dry air exposure on the sores to help speed the healing process.

However, that does not mean that you should immediately drink or eat after someone who has an active outbreak of herpes. The 10-second rule is not ironclad, and the herpes virus could possibly survive in wet saliva on a wine glass rim for a few seconds longer. 

Always take proper precautions, and if you would like some peace of mind regarding your sexual health, contact us at Rapid STD Testing for same-day STD testing.

Can You Get Oral Herpes From Sharing a Drink?

If a loved one disclosed to you that they have contracted the herpes virus, you would want to help support them while, at the same time, protecting yourself from the virus. You might also be wondering if your interactions with the infected person might need to change drastically.

Which part of your daily routine would need altering? Should you stop sharing your towels at the beach? Can you get herpes from sharing a drink?

Do not become overly concerned if you accidentally drank from your partner’s water bottle instead of your own. While the herpes virus can spread through saliva, it usually dies from air exposure within 10 seconds. There is a good chance that the virus already died before you put your mouth on the water bottle’s rim.

Can You Get Herpes from Sharing Utensils?

It is unlikely that you could contract herpes from shared cutlery, but there is no need to risk infection. It is good practice to wash your utensils well and forgo shared desserts until your partner’s outbreak is under control. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) maintains that you cannot get herpes from touching shared items such as towels or silverware.

Typically, the herpes virus manifests itself as genital herpes or cold sores, but it can spread to other areas of the body. HSV-1, otherwise known as oral herpes, is the form of herpes that presents as infectious cold sores. It is wise to keep in mind that herpes is still spreadable without the presence of visible sores.

Any contact with active oozing cold sores leads to a permanent herpes infection..

Can You Get Herpes from Sharing a Straw?

Herpes lives in saliva, so if you share a drink or a straw with someone who backwashes a lot, you risk contracting the virus from their spit. Contracting the virus from a shared straw is highly uncommon, but it does not hurt to take proper precautions.

Symptoms of STD in the mouth include difficulty swallowing, a painful throat, sores in the back of the throat, and cold sores around the mouth. If you suspect that you might have a herpes infection, contact Rapid STD Testing for a full 10-panel STD test today.

How to Protect Yourself from HSV-1

If you are concerned about contracting oral herpes, you can take some precautions to reduce the likelihood of becoming infected. Remember that HSV-1 can spread even if the fever blisters are not visibly present. By engaging in safe practices, you can help stop the spread of HSV-1 as well as other viruses.

   1. If you receive a dirty glass at a restaurant, request a new, clean glass. You can never be sure who used it last or what illness could be lingering on the rim of the glass.

   2. Clean your kitchen surfaces before preparing food to kill any remaining viruses and bacteria.

   3. Wash your hands frequently.

   4. When it comes to HSV-1, sharing is not caring. Avoid communal dishes to reduce accidental exposure.

   5. Do not kiss an infected person on the mouth.

   6. Do not share a toothbrush with your infected partner.

   7. Do not allow your partner to perform oral sex on you if they have an oral herpes outbreak. The cold sores can transmit to your genitals during oral sex, possibly causing an HSV-2 genital herpes infection.

Why Did Your Partner’s Herpes Come Back?

Herpes never leaves the body; it only lies dormant for a while. Stressful situations that can cause flare-ups include:

  •   other illnesses
  •   general fatigue
  •   emotional distress
  •   physical injuries
  •   menstruation

It can be frustrating to have to adjust your life around your partner’s health. You will need to make sacrifices to maintain your health and safety.

Skipping out on a one-milkshake, two-straws date night might not seem like a massive inconvenience in comparison to contracting a permanent disease, but change can still be unsettling. You might feel resentment towards your partner whenever another outbreak pops up.

Be advised that your partner has very little control over their herpes outbreak and probably feels even more discouraged than you do. Discuss your safety concerns with your partner and work together to make each other’s health a priority.

How Herpes Is Commonly Transmitted

The common stigma around herpes is sexual infidelity. Due to the harmful stereotype, you might accuse your partner of cheating if they suddenly exhibit the symptoms of a herpes outbreak.

However, your partner could have developed herpes long before you ever met them—and they did not necessarily contract the virus sexually.

Sexual Transmission

All sexual contact—such as foreplay, oral sex, anal sex, vaginal sex, or adult play involving sex toys—can lead to a herpes viral infection. Herpes does not spread only from genital-to-genital contact. If your partner touches their infected area with their fingers, then touches you, the virus can spread from their fingers.

Herpes is the most contagious when you are not practicing safe sex. Unfortunately, your sexual partners are not legally bound to inform you if they have herpes.

Be sure to use condoms, dental dams, and physical barriers to prevent skin-to-skin contact during sexual encounters, especially if you engage in casual sex with multiple partners.

Wearing physical barriers during sex does not guarantee that you will remain herpes-free, however. You should also abstain from all sexual contact during an outbreak with open sores. You can predict when the virus will be active by monitoring your physical condition.

If you notice that your infection area is itchy, you are about three days away from an outbreak. If your sores are open and leaking, you are infectious.

Non-Sexual Transmission

Did you know that babies in the womb can contract herpes from their mothers? Other non-sexual transmission methods include:

  • A handshake: Herpetic whitlow, otherwise known as “herpes on hands,” causes painful infectious blisters on the fingers.
  • A kiss: A chaste kiss can still exchange herpes-ridden saliva. Babies commonly become infected with herpes due to well-meaning but oblivious family members kissing them during an outbreak.
  • Birth: If the mother has an active case of the virus around her vagina at birth, she can unintentionally give the herpes virus to her newborn as the child passes through the birth canal.

Precautions to Take to Prevent Contracting Herpes and Other STDs

Avoiding contracting an STD is a high priority for most single adults since painful burning sores around the rectum, genitals, and mouth are a less-than-ideal situation.

Adults in committed relationships starting to plan a family should also be concerned about contracting herpes since the virus can lower a man’s sperm count and cause infant death, known as neonatal HSV.

If you already have herpes, you should use protection, abstain from sex during an outbreak, and take herpes medication daily to protect your sexual partner from infection. You should also avoid touching your sores. If you have to touch your sores, wash your hands immediately afterwards.

It is best to refrain from kissing anyone during a cold sore outbreak. Additionally, do not use spit to clean your snorkeling goggles, sunglasses, or contacts. You could spread the herpes virus to your eyes.

Abstinence

The only way to confidently protect yourself from contracting herpes and other STDs is to remain celibate. Alternatively, you can remain abstinent until you and your partner are in a committed relationship, and you have both agreed to take routine STD tests to stay on top of your sexual health.

STD testing can let you know which STD you might have contracted. Some STDs present similar symptoms. For example, when it comes to HPV vs. herpes, you might not be able to tell the difference between HPV genital lesions and herpes genital lesions.

Contact us at Rapid STD Testing for professional medical testing and fast results.

How Do You Get Herpes Testing?

Call Rapid STD Testing at (866) 872-1888 for testing and a consultation with a doctor today.

Do Hospitals Perform STD Testing When Drawing Blood?

by Leave a Comment

Are you up-to-date with your sexual health screenings? If you are sexually active, you should regularly schedule sexually transmitted disease (STD) tests to protect yourself from any resulting health problems. If you are experiencing STD symptoms, you might wonder:

  • Do I have a sexually transmitted infection (STI)?
  • Will blood tests show if I have an STD?
  • Do hospitals do STD testing when they draw blood?

Hospitals do not automatically run STD tests on your blood sample. You will need to specifically request STD testing. If you want an accurate and rapid STD test, contact Rapid STD Testing today.

Basic Purpose of Blood Testing

Have you ever questioned why doctors draw your blood when you visit a health clinic? Blood work reveals deficiencies in the body and provides early detection for various diseases.

Doctors review your blood work data to see if your numbers fall within the average range. The data points for a normal range can fluctuate depending on your:

  • Gender
  • Race
  • Age

If your blood work comes back as abnormal, this could indicate a potential health concern. However, there are many underlying causes for abnormal test results, and not all of them require treatment. Some issues resolve themselves naturally.

For example, if you are a woman getting blood testing done on the heaviest day of your menstrual cycle, your iron levels might be a little bit lower than the average range. However, if you have blood testing done on a day when you were not menstruating, you might be within the normal range.

It is wise to discuss any medical concerns with your doctors and listen to their professional feedback. Once you have your test results, doctors can offer medical advice such as taking supplements or starting a treatment regime.

What Do They Check for in a Blood Test at the Hospital?

Hospitals put their patients through a series of routine blood tests, including:

  • A complete blood count test (CBC) that checks for anemia, blood cancer, heart disease, indicators, bleeding and clotting problems, and any signs of infection
  • A blood chemistry panel that assesses the health of your muscles, organs, and bones

Other Types of Blood Tests

Additional blood tests may include:

  • A thyroid panel test: Your thyroid regulates your metabolism, mood, and energy levels
  • A basal metabolic panel test:This blood test is a necessary step for diagnosing hormone imbalances, liver disease, and diabetes

Do They Test for STDs When You Get Blood Work?

Health-conscious individuals asking, “Do hospitals do STD testing when they draw blood?” might be misinformed about how to identify STDs. While some STDs are detectable via blood tests, doctors will usually administer a blood test along with a swab test and a urine test for more accurate results.

Another way to test for STDs is a visual examination of the sores or a microscopic examination of a bacterial culture sample.

Some STDs, like chlamydia and gonorrhea, do not need blood testing since lab technicians can accurately diagnose them with a urine sample. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) also does not require blood testing; labs instead use a Pap smear and HPV test.

Your doctors will not include STD testing with your regular blood work unless you inform them of your symptoms. If you are concerned about sexually transmitted diseases and want tests run, contact Rapid STD Testing for a 10 panel STD test.

STD Detection by Blood Work Check

If you engage in unprotected sex or sexual contact with multiple partners, you could be putting yourself and your sexual partner at risk for an STD. Sexually active adults need to book regular blood tests to check for STDs and prevent further transmissions.

Herpes

When you mention herpes, most people think of large mouth sores and visibly infected genitals. On the contrary, herpes symptoms do not need to be present for transmission to occur. You may be unable to tell that you or your partner is infected, so it is prudent to undergo regular testing for STDs.

During testing, lab technicians will search your blood sample for HSV-1 and HSV-2 strains. If these strains are present, you are positive for oral or genital herpes. An immunoglobulin test will also reveal if you had a past infection.

Herpes is a challenging STD to contain because people frequently spread the disease unknowingly. You should schedule regular blood tests so you can know if you have contracted the disease. Once you have your diagnosis, you can seek treatment and take proper precautions.

HIV

HIV is the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). There is no cure for HIV, but your doctor can help you manage your symptoms and prevent transmission.

Testing for HIV involves your doctor taking a capillary draw or completing a venipuncture to obtain your blood sample. Your blood sample will then undergo tests to rule out the presence of HIV-1 and HIV-2 antibodies. If you have either of these antibodies, you could potentially be HIV- positive.

A second confirmatory testing is necessary to receive an HIV-positive diagnosis. If you are HIV-positive, consistently taking your HIV medication is the best way to keep symptoms at bay and protect others.

Syphilis

When your immune system is under attack from an infection, it produces antibodies. During blood testing, lab technicians search for these antibodies as indicators that your body is fighting an internal disease.

Rapid plasma regain (RPR) and the venereal disease research laboratory test (VDRL) are two blood tests technicians use to look for Syphilis antibodies. These tests can also indicate if you had a past Syphillis infection.

Hepatitis B

The three blood tests for Hepatitis B are as follows:

1. The Antigen Test: If you test positive, you are infectious and could spread Hepatitis B to others.

2. The Anti-HBs Test: If you test positive, you are immune to Hepatitis B. You may have had Hepatitis B in the past and thus gained immunity, or you received the vaccination. You will not pass the virus to others.

3. The Anti-HBc Test: If you test positive, you may have chronic infectious Hepatitis B. You could spread the virus to others.

Individuals at a high risk of contracting Hepatitis B typically engage in:

  • Non-monogamous sexual relationships
  • Sexual relations with a Hepatitis-B positive partner
  • Injection-based drug use
  • Professional careers that handle blood
  • Same-sex relationships

Doctors recommend that everyone, regardless of sexual history, get a Hepatitis B vaccination.

If you think you are safe from STDs because you had blood drawn with zero abnormal results, ask your doctor, “Do hospitals do STD testing when they draw blood?” Guaranteed your tests did not include an STD screening unless you requested one ahead of time, and you could still be at risk.

How to Prepare for a Blood Test

If you suspect you have an STD and have scheduled a blood test, you might have a few questions.

  • Do you need to be fasting? Fasting requirements vary depending on the type of blood test you take. Your doctor will inform you if you need to be fasting.
  • Do you need to pause medications? Antibiotics, antidepressants, beta-blockers, steroids, lithium, and certain vitamins can skew your test results. Consult with your doctor about safely pausing your medications.
  • What if you faint? Be sure to drink plenty of water beforehand. Being well-hydrated makes your veins easier to tap and might reduce lightheadedness. Your doctor can provide you with juice or a cookie afterwards if you feel faint.
  • When you get blood work, do they check for STDs? The blood work at your annual physical will not automatically include STD testing unless you request it.
  • Do hospitals do STD testing when they draw blood? No, you need to ask for STD testing.
  • Does Insurance Cover STD Testing? If you are a woman under 24 years of age or at high-risk, you are eligible for free syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea screenings. If you are a man, you are eligible for free syphilis and HIV screenings.
  • Can you get free STD testing? Yes, but be sure not to put yourself at risk of an inaccurate diagnosis by working with low-quality clinics.

Get a Bloodwork Check for STDs at Rapid STD Testing

Do you need a blood test for STD and HIV? Call us at (866) 872-1888 Rapid STD Testing for same-day STD testing.

Can You Get AIDS From a Mosquito Bite?

by Leave a Comment

Although modern medical treatment has made living with HIV a lot safer, the HIV virus still takes a formidable toll worldwide. In 2020, close to 680,000 people lost their lives to AIDS-related complications.

We all know about the dangers of unprotected sex and contaminated injection equipment, but can you get HIV through other vectors, for example, through blood-sucking insects? “Can you get AIDS from a mosquito bite?” is a common question.

The Rapid STD Testing team would like to reassure you—no, you can’t contract AIDS through mosquito bites. Keep reading to learn more about how HIV transmission works and how to prevent it.

How Is HIV Transmitted?

To protect oneself from HIV, with maximum safety but without undue fears and restrictions, it’s important to understand the conditions necessary for HIV virus transmission.

HIV transmission occurs when the following bodily fluids pass from an HIV-positive person to the bloodstream of an HIV-negative person:

  •   Blood
  •   Vaginal fluids
  •   Rectal fluids
  •   Semen and pre-seminal fluid
  •   Breastmilk

The HIV virus needs a direct venue into the bloodstream to pass to a new host. That may be through an injection or through contact with a mucous membrane (such as found in the sexual organs, rectum, and mouth). HIV doesn’t pass through healthy, intact skin.

Furthermore, to be infectious, a person with HIV needs to have a detectable viral load. The term “viral load” refers to the number of HIV RNA copies in one milliliter of a person’s blood. HIV-positive individuals can be safe sexual partners if they take their HIV medicine as prescribed and maintain an undetectable viral load.

Here are the most common activities that contribute to the spread of HIV:

  •   Having unprotected sex (vaginal or anal) with an HIV-positive partner
  •   Sharing needles or other injection equipment with an HIV-positive person

HIV may also pass from an HIV-positive mother to a baby during pregnancy, at birth, or through breastfeeding. Less commonly, HIV may spread through oral sex, deep kissing when both partners have mouth sores or bleeding gums, and other types of contact between HIV-contaminated blood and the mucous membranes or blood of an HIV-negative person.

To assuage possible concerns and address some common misconceptions, we will stress that you can’t contract HIV through:

  •   Being in the same room with an HIV-positive person
  •   Shaking hands, hugging, or closed-mouth kissing
  •   Sharing a toilet seat, utensil, or a drinking glass with an HIV-positive person
  •   Mosquito or other insect bites

If you suspect you have been exposed to HIV or experience common early HIV symptoms like fever, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes, we recommend a rapid STD test for your peace of mind.

Can AIDS Be Transmitted Through a Mosquito Bite?

Theoretically, one might think that a mosquito would be able to spread HIV by feeding on an HIV-positive person and then moving on to another person. After all, mosquito bites involve broken skin, and mosquitoes do spread some dangerous viral diseases.

However, luckily, mosquitoes and other blood-sucking insects do not transmit HIV. Here is why:

Reason 1: A Mosquito’s Sucking Mechanism

While you may envision a mosquito as a minuscule live, flying hypodermic needle, a mosquito’s feeding system is a complex structure that involves two completely separate passageways for food and saliva.

When a mosquito begins to feed, it injects saliva into the host through a tiny tube called the hypopharynx. The saliva helps the mosquito insert its mouthparts into the host and prevents blood from clotting, which makes it easier for the mosquito to feed. The redness, swelling, and itching most people experience after mosquito bites is actually an allergic reaction to mosquito saliva.

At the same time, the labrum, a different tube in the mosquito’s feeding mechanism, pumps the blood into the mosquito’s gut. Think of it as a two-lane expressway – the blood and saliva never mix during a feeding, and the movement up or down each channel is entirely unidirectional: saliva into the host’s tissues, blood up the mosquito’s feeding tube.

Even if the mosquito moves on to another host immediately after feeding on the first one, it doesn’t release any of the former host’s blood into the second host. The blood meal remains safely in the mosquito’s digestive system.

Reason 2: Mosquitoes are Not Affected by HIV

HIV is a virus that only affects humans and some other primates. When a mosquito ingests a blood meal from an HIV-positive host, it does not become an HIV carrier itself. The mosquito’s digestive system simply breaks down the virus particles with the blood meal.

HIV never gets a chance to survive, replicate, and invade the mosquito’s salivary glands, which would be necessary to pass from the mosquito to another host. In contrast, mosquito-borne diseases like malaria and encephalitis use effective mechanisms to avoid the mosquito’s digestive enzymes.

For example, the encephalitis virus can use the mosquito as a host and not just survive but proliferate inside the mosquito. It spreads to the mosquito’s salivary glands, and in this way, may transfer to a new host during the mosquito’s next feeding.

Reason 3: A Low Amount of HIV is Difficult to Transmit

Insect-borne viruses must circulate at very high levels in the infected person’s bloodstream to pass from one host to another. Compared to known mosquito-borne diseases like malaria, HIV levels in the human bloodstream are extremely low.

Supposing the mosquito’s feeding and digestive mechanism enabled HIV transfer, an individual would need to receive approximately 10 million mosquito bites – all by mosquitoes that have fed on an HIV carrier shortly before – to contract a single HIV unit. Naturally, such a scenario is far beyond the realm of probability.

Even if you swat an engorged mosquito while it attempts to feed on you and the blood inside the mosquito’s stomach comes in contact with your broken skin, any HIV particles present in the infected blood would be much below the minimum level that could cause an HIV infection.

What Diseases Do Mosquitoes Carry?

Even though mosquitoes, fortunately, do not contribute to the spread of HIV, they do act as vectors for several other potentially serious diseases. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns people at risk against mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, yellow fever, the West Nile virus, and different encephalitis strains.

  •   West Nile Virus: Mosquito bites are the most common transmission path for the West Nile virus. While most people who acquire the virus don’t display any symptoms, a small percentage may develop a serious and potentially fatal neurological illness.
  •   Dengue fever: Dengue is a tropical mosquito-borne disease that commonly causes symptoms such as high fever, muscle and joint aches, headaches, and vomiting. A small minority of people who contract the dengue virus may develop dangerous conditions such as dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome.
  •   Viral encephalitis: Viral encephalitis may lead to brain inflammation and potentially life-threatening complications, including permanent brain damage. Risk groups include infants under one year of age and adults over 55.

Tips to Prevent Contracting HIV

While you don’t need to worry about the possibility of contracting HIV through insect bites or social contact, the HIV virus remains a serious concern for sexually active individuals, especially those who may have multiple partners. Here is what you can do to protect yourself from an HIV infection:

  •   Use condoms. When used correctly, condoms are highly effective in preventing the transmission of HIV and other STDs. If you use a lubricant, choose a water- or silicone-based option to prevent the condom from slipping or breaking.
  •   Insist on testing. Even if you are in a monogamous relationship, keep using a barrier protection method until both you and your partner test negative for HIV.
  •   Consider PrEP. If you belong to a high-risk group, you may want to discuss PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis medicine) with your health care provider.

Are you concerned that your level of protection during a sexual encounter may have been inadequate? With sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Learn more about how Rapid STD Testing works and how to get tested.

If a test reveals that you have already contracted HIV, immediate treatment is imperative to preserve your health and avoid spreading the virus.

Effective antiretroviral therapy (ART) can help those who are HIV-positive achieve and maintain an undetectable viral load and lead a normal, healthy life without worrying about transmitting HIV to their partners. Pregnant women should likewise take HIV medicine as prescribed to reduce the risk of passing HIV to their babies.

Stay Protected: Get Tested Today

Same-day STD testing is the most reliable way to ensure that you and your partner stay safe and healthy. Order a discreet 10-panel STD test from our team at Rapid STD Testing today.

What is Blue Waffle Disease: Is it an STD?

by Leave a Comment

Promoting STD awareness has become a primary focus of schools, nonprofit organizations, and public health organizations during the past few decades. While these efforts have generally been successful, misconceptions about contracting and preventing sexually transmitted diseases still exist.

The misconceptions regarding sexual health are often the result of people deliberately spreading false information. The fictitious blue waffle disease is a prime example of the general public’s susceptibility to misinformation spread through internet memes.

What is the so-called blue waffle disease? Read on as we discuss the origins of blue waffle disease, how people can contract it (according to urban legend), and real STDs that might resemble this fake condition.

If you think you might have an STD, be sure to get in touch with Rapid STD Testing to schedule same-day STD testing and seek medical advice.

Origins of the Blue Waffle Disease Hoax

Floating around the internet for over a decade, “blue waffle disease” is a fictitious STD supposedly resulting from the bacterial growth in an infected woman’s vagina. The supposed symptoms of blue waffle disease included vaginal inflammation, unbearable itching or burning, and red rashes surrounding the infected area. The internet folklore declared that the genital area and vulva also turn blue and release an odorous liquid, worsening the symptoms.

Blue waffle disease is a fake condition that online pranksters invented in 2010 as a hoax, and they derived the name from the slang term for vagina. People who conducted online research to determine if blue waffle disease is real found a graphic and likely manipulated image of infected labia with a blue color.

According to the online sources that falsely reported the existence of blue waffle disease, no treatments were available to alleviate this condition. However, taking multivitamin supplements, antibiotics, or tea tree oil could help. Eating yogurt containing probiotics and lactobacillus acidophilus bacteria were also said to help to fight the disease.

The seemingly realistic photo and information contributed significantly to the hoax’s believability. In 2013, a New Jersey councilwoman who fell victim to the hoax announced that the disease had claimed 85 women. 

In 2017, during a presentation for Annals of Internal Medicine, Anita Ravi, MD, MPH, debunked this fictitious illness. Dr. Amy Whitaker, an OB/GYN and assistant professor at the University of Chicago, also confirmed that the condition doesn’t exist.

Here at Rapid STD Testing, we recommend seeking early treatment for real STIs. If you suspect that you have an STD, contact us today to schedule a rapid STD test.

How Do You Get Blue Waffle Disease?

While it is true that blue waffle disease doesn’t exist, you shouldn’t disregard the similarities between this fictitious condition and real STDs. Many of the factors increasing the risk for the fictional blue waffle disease, such as unprotected sex, can cause the transmission of real STDs.

According to the hoax, you could get blue waffle disease by having unprotected sexual intercourse. The risk factors for contracting blue waffle disease reportedly included:

  •       Having intercourse while you have open scratches, cuts, and other vaginal wounds
  •       Maintaining a sexually active lifestyle with multiple sex partners
  •       Failing to maintain proper genital hygiene

According to the hoax, women who failed to change their sanitary pads or underwear regularly had a high susceptibility to the bacteria that caused blue waffle disease. Additionally, failing to clean the genitals regularly and properly could create a favorable environment for bacterial growth.

Other risk factors for blue waffle disease included unsafe anal or oral sex practices and sharing sex toys with other people.

While the blue condition was fictive, the factors associated with the hoax disease are very real factors that can increase your risk for contracting genuine sexually transmitted diseases, such as bacterial vaginosis (BV), chlamydia, genital herpes, and HIV.

Over time, however, some common misconceptions regarding sexually transmitted diseases also started applying to the fictional blue waffle disease.

Some misinformation reported that you could contract blue waffle disease by using a public restroom. Fortunately, this is a myth as far as the transmission of real STDs is concerned. A sexually transmitted disease only spreads via person-to-person contact.

The following myths regarding blue waffle disease are also myths when it comes to real STDs as well:

  •       Myth 1: Oral sex limits your risk of an infection
  •       Myth 2: A condom offers complete protection against an STD infection
  •       Myth 3: STDs always go away on their own
  •       Myth 4: A person with an STD always exhibits signs or symptoms

Taking STD tests is the only way to know if you have an infection—a real one, that is. At Rapid STD Testing, we offer a 10-panel STD test package as a baseline evaluation for infections. No, we do not test for blue waffle disease.

Is Blue Waffle Disease a Real STD?

No, blue waffle disease is not a real STD, and no infectious process or health condition exists that causes the vagina to turn blue.

According to Know Your Meme, Blue Waffle was a bait-and-switch shock website that went online in 2008. The site features the close-up and graphic image of an infected vagina we mentioned above. The bait component of the site was a picture of a blue Belgian waffle with the caption “Bet you can’t find me on Google Image search.”

The idea was for people to search for a blue waffle and stumble upon the graphic image. According to Google Trends, users started searching the term “blue waffle” in November 2009, and blue waffle disease became an urban legend during 2010.

People who didn’t encounter the blue waffle image learned about the fictitious disease via social media and other online platforms, and large-scale panic ensued. To this day, people stumbling upon the meme or image online often believe the condition to be real. Fortunately, a quick online search is usually sufficient to put their fears at rest. Because blue waffle disease is fake, this condition has no medical term or actual name.

The non-existence of blue waffle disease is not a reason to throw caution to the wind, however. STD transmissions remain a common occurrence, especially among people who have unprotected sexual intercourse with multiple partners. 

At Rapid STD Testing, we can provide an STD test for men and women. If you are experiencing side effects or your partner tested positive for an STD, get in touch with us to schedule a test.

Real STDs Often Mistaken for Blue Waffle Disease

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted disease affecting men and women. This infection can spread between partners during vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Wearing a latex condom during intercourse is the most effective way to prevent transmission.

In many cases, chlamydia doesn’t present any symptoms. However, symptoms can take a few weeks to appear and may result in medical complications. In severe cases, chlamydia can affect the female reproductive system and even cause infertility, reducing the chances of pregnancy.

Other vaginal symptoms of chlamydia infected females may experience include:

  •       An abnormal discharge
  •       A burning sensation when urinating
  •       Abdominal pain
  •       Pain during sex
  •       Bleeding between periods or after sexual intercourse

In men, chlamydia can affect the penis or testes, with symptoms that include:

  •       A burning sensation when urinating
  •       A cloudy discharge from the penis
  •       Testicle pain or swelling

If left untreated, chlamydia can cause swelling in the epididymis, causing infertility.

In some cases, chlamydia in men and women can spread to the rectum, causing rectal pain, discharge, or bleeding. If you notice any of the above symptoms, schedule rapid STD testing as soon as possible so you can seek early treatment if necessary.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is an STD and infection of the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacteria. These bacteria flourish in warm and moist areas of the body, including the vagina, anus, urethra, and female reproductive tract. In some cases, gonorrhea may also target the eyes and throat.

Gonorrhea generally passes between people during unprotected vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Wearing a latex condom and abstinence are the most effective forms of preventing transmission.

The symptoms of gonorrhea typically present within two weeks after exposure, with some asymptomatic carriers never exhibiting any symptoms. Note that even with no symptoms, you can still infect someone else.

In men, common symptoms of gonorrhea include:

  •       Pain or a burning sensation during urination
  •       A pus-like discharge from the penis
  •       Swelling or redness around the penis glans
  •       Pain or swelling of one or both of the testicles
  •       A chronically sore throat

In women, the symptoms of gonorrhea are generally similar to bacterial infections, which is why many patients often mistake this condition for “blue waffle disease.” Common gonorrhea symptoms in women include:

  •       A watery or creamy discharge from the vagina
  •       The need to urinate more frequently
  •       Pain or a burning sensation when urinating
  •       Sharp and sudden pains in the lower abdomen
  •       Pain during vaginal sex
  •       A sore throat or fever

If you test positive for gonorrhea, early treatment is critical to prevent long-term complications affecting the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tube.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is one of the most common STIs. This virus has over 100 variants, and most sexually active people will get an HPV infection, even if they don’t have multiple sexual partners.

The HPV transmission methods depend on the variety in question, but most variants spread through skin-to-skin contact, vaginal, anal, and oral sex. In other words, sexual contact isn’t a requirement for transmission. A mother can also transmit HPV to her baby during delivery.

Like most other STDs, you can transmit HPV to another person even if you have no symptoms. In around 90% of cases, HPV infections last up to two years before going away on their own. In 10% of cases, an HPV infection can cause several health issues, including:

  •       The formation of warts on the genitals and in the throat
  •       Cancer of the cervix, genitals, neck, and throat

Whether an HPV infection can cause cancer or warts depend on the variant. Late-onset cancer symptoms are common and highly problematic, which is why early testing and diagnosis are critical.

Herpes

The herpes simplex virus infection causes herpes, affecting various parts of the body, with the mouth and genitals being the most common. The two types of herpes simplex virus are:

  •       HSV-1: This variant primarily affects the mouth and commonly causes fever blisters and cold sores
  •       HSV-2: A herpes simplex virus that targets the genitals, causing STDs such as genital herpes outbreaks

The herpes simplex virus can affect people from all walks of life and spreads through direct person-to-person contact. You can contract the HSV-1 virus by sharing an infected person’s eating utensils or Chapstick. Kissing can also result in an HSV-1 transmission.

An HSV-2 transmission generally occurs during sexual contact. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, around 20% of sexually active adults in the United States have an HSV-2 infection.

You can transmit the herpes simplex virus if you have no symptoms. However, the risk of transmission increases significantly during an outbreak.

The most common Herpes symptoms include:

  •       Blistering sores or itching in the affected area
  •       Pain during urination
  •       Headaches
  •       Fatigue and a lack of appetite
  •       Lymph node swelling

In some cases, HSV can spread to the eyes, causing herpes keratitis. Symptoms of this condition include eye pain and discomfort.

No cure for herpes exists, and your healthcare provider will likely recommend a treatment to alleviate symptoms.

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

Bacterial vaginosis is a vaginal infection that is often due to a shift in the balance of vaginal bacteria. Lactobacillus bacteria keep your vagina at the correct acidity level. However, when a drop in Lactobacillus levels occurs, it makes your vagina and reproductive tract alkalic and susceptible to the growth of harmful bacteria.

The incidence of bacterial vaginosis is higher in women who:

  •       Consume tobacco products
  •       Are sexually active
  •       Use scented soaps, vaginal deodorants, and bubble bath

BV usually doesn’t cause severe health concerns, but it can be problematic if you are a woman who is pregnant or trying to get pregnant. Common BV symptoms include

  •       A burning sensation or pain during urination
  •       Itching in the affected area
  •       An unpleasant odor that intensifies after sexual intercourse
  •       A white or grey discharge

If you notice any of the above symptoms, get an STD test to determine if you need treatment.

Blue Waffle Disease Info: Preventing Misinformation Regarding This Fake STD

Accurate and timely information is the public’s first line of defense against sexually transmitted diseases. Knowing how to prevent the transmission of STDs goes a long way toward maintaining a healthy and complication-free lifestyle.

In the event of a transmission, you need to identify the symptoms as soon as they occur to know which STDs to get tested for and to seek adequate medical treatment.

Spreading misinformation online may seem like an effective way to escape boredom. However, a person who deliberately perpetuates fabrications, such as the existence of blue waffle disease, may ultimately cost people their health and quality of life.

Thanks to medical professionals who intervened, the correct information about blue waffle disease is available Xanax. However, even though the condition doesn’t exist, the need for due diligence remains. The memes and misinformation still circulate online and are nearly impossible to eradicate.

Conjuring a new STD out of thin air may seem like a way to keep people on their toes. In reality, spreading fake information trivializes the severity of actual conditions and desensitizes the public to the very real dangers of STDs.

When encountering medical information that appears to be out of the ordinary or sensational, don’t accept and share it as the truth. Consult with your doctor or fact-check the information yourself using an authority source online.

If you experience symptoms resembling those of blue waffle disease, don’t shrug them off. Seek immediate medical treatment since you may have a real STD.

Visit an STD testing center near you

We’ve reached the end of our guide on the fictitious blue waffle disease. This condition doesn’t exist, but the symptoms may indicate an underlying and potentially severe real health issue. If you suspect that you have an STI, call Rapid STD Testing to order a test or visit one of our STD testing centers near you.

Debunking the 10 Common STD Myths and Facts

by Leave a Comment

Unfortunately, accurate information about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) often ends up mixed in with STD myths. Many people are unsure what to believe when it comes to STD symptoms and treatments or even facts about the transmission of STDs.

You can find all the information you need to separate fact from myth right here or call our team at Rapid STD Testing for more information about STD treatment options in your area. Just dial (866) 872-1888. We also offer same-day STD testing.

Dangers of Misinformation on STD Myths vs. Facts

Why is it important to differentiate STD myths vs. facts? Misinformation about STDs – or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) – can have steep consequences. Some people believe that they can’t get an STD from anal or oral sex. Others believe they can’t get an STD from a one-night stand. Myths such as these lead people to put themselves in dangerous situations where they’re more likely to contract STDs.

Individuals who misunderstand how STDs get transmitted, for example, may unknowingly expose themselves to health risks, fail to get tested, or fail to seek appropriate treatment for their condition if they contract an STD.

Lack of awareness regarding STDs represents a significant concern throughout the U.S. and is a contributing factor to the increasing prevalence of STD cases. The Kaiser Family Foundation ran a poll to measure awareness and knowledge regarding STDs nationwide. Around 36% of those surveyed were unaware that many common STDs had become more prevalent in recent years, including diseases like:

  •       Gonorrhea
  •       Syphilis
  •       Genital herpes
  •       Human papilloma virus (HPV)

Cases of illnesses like chlamydia and gonorrhea rose to over 2.4 million in 2018, per information released from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Around 20% of the U.S. populace had an STD at any given time that year. These numbers represent the highest totals for STDs since the CDC began recording information on the subject, demonstrating that these illnesses continue to spread at a rapid rate.

Further, only 13% of the people surveyed by the Kaiser Family Foundation knew that around half the population of the U.S. will contract an STD at some point in their lives.

Myths about treatment options for STDs are also a significant cause of concern for medical professionals around the country. Some people believe that they cannot receive treatment after contracting an STD, so they do not seek assistance for the virus or bacteria that caused their illness. Learning the facts about STDs can create a safer and healthier environment for everyone, even people who are not sexually active.

10 Common STD Myths and Facts

Not Having Sex Can Prevent STDs

When discussing STD myths and facts, many people believe they can avoid all risks of an STD if they don’t have a certain type of sex. The truth is, you can contract an STD from any form of sexual contact, including penis-in-vagina sex, anal sex, and oral sex.

In some cases, you can even contract an STD through skin-to-skin contact. Some diseases, like herpes, spread if you touch the affected area, even with your hand. You can get a rapid STD test from our team at Rapid STD Testing if you believe you were exposed to someone with an STD, even if you did not engage in intercourse.

Note that the viruses and bacteria responsible for many STD cases can enter your system through even a minor cut. While we traditionally think of fluid exchange as transmitting STDs, this is not always the case.

You Can Contract an STD From a Toilet Seat

Many people have heard the urban legend about a friend of a friend who caught an STD just by sitting on the toilet seat in a public bathroom. The chances of getting an STD just by sitting on a toilet set are – in truth – incredibly low.

STDs come from viruses and bacteria that prefer to live in warm, moist environments. These organisms have specific biological needs that have to be met in order for them to stay alive. Toilet seats do not provide the right environment, and most viruses and bacteria begin to die shortly after they exit the body.

You Can Determine If a Person Has an STD Just by Looking at Them

STDs can lead to a number of unpleasant and dangerous symptoms, including itching around the genitals, sores or bumps, and discharge from either the penis or the vagina. However, some people display no indications at all when infected.

In many cases, you have no way of knowing if someone has an STD by their appearance. Likewise, people of all demographics get STDs. One’s social standing or lifestyle choices can not be used to judge whether they do or do not have an STD.

Many people are asymptomatic and do not even realize they have an STD. However, even people who have no symptoms can spread an STD to others. You can check your health status with a 10-panel STD test.

Note that – because you cannot visibly tell if someone has an STD – you may not want to take another person’s word for it if they say they do not have an STI or STD. You can protect yourself in this situation by using a condom for every sexual act, including oral intercourse.

You Are Safe from STDs If You Just Have Oral Sex

Speaking of oral sex, rumor has it that you can avoid contracting an STD if you avoid vaginal or anal sex. While you are less likely to contract an STD when giving or receiving oral sex, you can still contract illnesses like herpes, HPV, chlamydia, and gonorrhea.

HPV represents a common concern associated with oral sex. Individuals can develop neck or head cancer due to exposure to HPV. In other situations, exposure to this virus can result in the growth of warts in the throat. HPV can also lead to genital warts or cancers of the penis, cervix, or anus.

Fortunately, you can take protective measures to defend against STDs when engaging in oral sex. Medical professionals recommend the use of condoms or dental dams during each sexual act. If you contracted an STD, like herpes, you can seek treatment to mitigate the effects of the illness. Getting treatment can help reduce or control breakouts of the STD.

Circumcision Can Permanently Prevent STDs

A single medical study carried out in Uganda is often touted as the source of the circumcision STD myth. According to this myth, circumcision can prevent men from catching STDs. That study did show that heterosexual men had lower chances of contracting HPV and genital herpes if they were circumcised.

However, the study did not indicate that circumcision provided total protection from STDs, and, even then, it only showed a modest decrease in the transmission rate of the STDs tested. The study also did not address transmission rates associated with homosexual intercourse.

Condoms are the only protection method with a high rate of success in preventing STDs for both circumcised and uncircumcised individuals. While circumcision may provide a level of increased protection from some STDs, you cannot trust it as a form of protection from these illnesses.

In the study, circumcised individuals only saw a 25% lower risk for the development of genital warts, for example.

Birth Control Methods Also Prevent STDs

Birth control methods – like the pill – can help you avoid getting pregnant. However, most birth control methods cannot help you avoid STDs. In fact, condoms are the only birth control method that effectively protects against the transmission of STDs.

Some studies indicate that you may receive a degree of protection from STDs with a progesterone IUD, but scientists have not confirmed this hypothesis yet. Testing the theory on your own could lead to an STD infection, so make sure that you continue to use condoms when on this form of birth control.

Along this line, many people wonder if it is possible to sleep with someone with an STD and not get it. While it is possible to have sexual contact without an infected individual and not contract the STD, it is still vital to take appropriate precautions (such as using a condom each time you have intercourse). “Beating the odds” once is not proof that a particular approach to preventing STDs, such as birth control, works.

Chlorine Kills STDs

Plenty of movies and television shows have shown happy couples engaging in sexual intercourse in a hot tub. Rumor has it that the chlorine in the hot tub kills the viruses or bacteria that lead to STDs, allowing you to safely engage in safe unprotected sex.

This myth contains no grains of truth. Chlorine and hot water do not help you avoid contracting an STD. In fact, sex in a hot tub may prove more dangerous when it comes to STD transmission, as the hot water can break down a latex condom, reducing its protective benefits.

All STDs Are Deadly

Some STDs can have deadly consequences, like AIDS and syphilis. However, you can get medical treatment for even these severe illnesses in many situations. Other STDs lead to additional issues if they go untreated.

You may develop urinary tract infections or cancers if you contract an STD and fail to seek treatment. Some untreated STDs can result in infertility, meaning they could prevent you from having children in the future.

Even “minor” STDs can cause significant discomfort, including itching and burning. The longer you allow an STD to go without treatment, the more serious the results can become. For this reason, it’s very important to get tested to assess your health.

The results of your STD testing can allow medical professionals to develop a treatment plan to help you avoid serious health consequences. You can also protect your sexual partners by getting tested and practicing safe sex procedures.

Having A Relationship Means You Are Safe from STDs

You may have heard that people only catch STDs if they have multiple sexual partners. If this were true, being in a monogamous relationship could allow you to feel confident about avoiding STDs. However, your risk for STDs in this situation could depend upon your partner’s past sexual history.

Many couples feel uncomfortable discussing their sexual history with one another. In a similar way, many people do not consider getting tested before they begin a new sexual relationship. However, taking these steps can help you feel more aware of your potential risks, so you can make an informed decision about the kind of protection you want to use in your relationship.

Furthermore, reducing your risk of exposure to STDs requires monogamy on the part of all partners in a relationship, which is never guaranteed. Likewise, some STDs can be contracted through non-sexual contact.

For instance, while HSV2 is often sexually transmitted, HSV1, which causes cold sores, can be spread by something as innocent as sharing a cup. You can learn more HSV1 vs. HSV2 facts by contacting our team at Rapid STD Testing.

Age Contributes to Your Chances of Contracting An STD

People of any age can contract an STD. However, infection and transmission rates are higher in some age groups than in others. No one age group has an automatic resistance to the bacteria and viruses that cause STDS. You cannot “age out” of a risk for contracting STDs.

What age group are STDs most common in? Young people and teens tend to have higher rates of STDs, but this is not a result of age-related vulnerability. Many young people are not in monogamous relationships, which means they have exposure to more partners who could have an infection.

Young people also worry more about talking about sexual concerns with anyone, let alone a health care provider, making it more difficult for them to get treatment. They also may be less likely to have access to condoms, dental dams, and other preventive measures. To support this, research suggests that when condoms are made easily available to youth, rates of sexual disease decrease.

However, to reiterate, despite the higher prevalence of STDs in younger populations, individuals at any age can catch and spread STDs.

How to Prevent Misconceptions Against STDs

Misconceptions regarding STDs can have significant health consequences. Individuals who don’t understand the risks associated with STDs may not seek medical care if they develop concerns about medical issues, allowing the illness to grow more severe.

Misinformation can also prevent individuals from recognizing the symptoms of an STD. While many STDs do not cause obvious symptoms, some of these illnesses lead to itching, discomfort, or noticeable discharge. Recognizing these symptoms allows individuals to seek the treatment they require to manage the ailment before it causes more damage to their bodies.

STDs myths also contribute to the spread of these illnesses. Individuals who believe they can prevent STDs by having sex in a hot tub, for example, could end up spreading a disease to others. These facts make it even more important that we all take steps to promote accurate information regarding STDs.

What can you do? You can clear up many common misconceptions by examining the facts about STDs as presented by trustworthy sources and sharing them with others. Medical organizations like the CDC back up their statements regarding STDs with facts and verified test results.

Fact-checking any information you find can also help you feel more confident about your understanding of these diseases. Official medical sources – including hospitals – can provide additional information regarding STDs, their symptoms, and the results of an infection. You can use medical sources to learn more about methods to prevent the transmission of STDs, including proper condom usage, as well.

Finally, you can learn more about your current health status through STD testing. Getting this information can inform your sexual choices, allowing you to make decisions that keep you – and any potential sexual partners – safe.

Put Your Knowledge of STDs into Action

Separating STD facts from STD myths can help you feel more confident about your health. You can learn more about your personal risk level by visiting an STD testing facility or contacting our team at Rapid STD Testing to order a test or panel. Get the information you’re looking for by calling (866) 872-1888.