Archives for March 2022

Common Home Remedies for Chlamydia: Are They Really Helpful?

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Home remedies for chlamydia: Do they really work? Well, not exactly. While you can find many websites on the internet claiming that you can cure a chlamydia infection at home, the only scientifically proven cure is antibiotics. However, some of the home remedies we’re going to discuss do have health benefits and antibacterial properties. But can they treat chlamydia? Keep reading to find out.

If you suspect you may have an STD, be sure to get tested immediately. Fortunately, STD testing is easier and more accessible than ever before. You can order a panel from the Rapid STD Testing website or visit one of our 2500 nationwide locations for same-day STD testing that’s completely confidential.

Keep reading for all the information you need to know about home remedies for chlamydia and whether they actually work—or not.

Can You Cure Chlamydia Infection at Home?

How can you treat chlamydia at home? You can relieve symptoms, but you can’t cure chlamydia without antibiotics. Some home remedies can provide mild symptom relief. However, they can’t cure chlamydia, which can have severe consequences to your health and fertility if left untreated.

Chlamydia belongs to the category of curable STDs. It’s a bacterial infection you can get via oral or sexual intercourse, and it can infect the penis, cervix, rectum, or throat. Unfortunately, chlamydia is often asymptomatic, which means most people don’t show symptoms. In fact, only about 10% of men and 5% to 30% of women ever show signs of a chlamydia infection. Luckily, it’s very easy to treat and cure with oral antibiotics.

Chlamydia Symptoms

If you experience any of the symptoms listed below or you’ve had unprotected sexual activity, getting a rapid STD test is extremely important. Here are the most common symptoms for men and women, which can take weeks to show up:

  • Pain during sexual intercourse
  • Lower abdominal pain
  • Pain or burning sensations while peeing
  • Spotting or bleeding between periods
  • Yellowish, strong-smelling, or abnormal vaginal discharge
  • Pus or discharge from the penis
  • Anal pain, bleeding, or discharge
  • Swollen or painful testicles

For women who are pregnant, under age 25, or older with risk factors (multiple sexual partners, unprotected sexual contact, drug use, etc.), the CDC recommends getting tested at least once a year. Men who have sex with other men should also get tested regularly.

If you test positive for chlamydia and choose to treat it at home, you’re putting yourself at risk. Women who do not treat chlamydia can have problems getting pregnant and suffer damage to their reproductive system. In addition, pregnant women can pass chlamydia onto their baby, which can cause premature birth, pneumonia, or conjunctivitis (an eye infection).

Home Remedies to Cure Chlamydia: How Can You Treat Chlamydia at Home?

If you have chlamydia, these natural treatments won’t cure it completely. Only antibiotics can do that. However, they may be able to provide you with symptom relief until you can get an STD test and seek treatment.

Fortunately, you can call us here at Rapid STD Testing today or order a chlamydia testing panel online right now, then visit one of our convenient testing centers to give a sample. Our doctors will prescribe you the correct medication if your test is positive.

Now, let’s discuss popular home remedies for chlamydia for males and females.

Common Home Remedies for STD Chlamydia

1.    Oregano

Commercial-grade oregano oil has natural infection-fighting properties thanks to its carvacrol and thymol compounds. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not take oregano oil. For others, daily intake shouldn’t exceed 45 mg. Commercial-grade oregano oil is powerful and may cause side effects such as nausea, indigestion, upset stomach, or even vomiting. To start an oregano oil regimen, take it with coconut oil or water.

2.    Garlic

Garlic is another of the most common home remedies for chlamydia and other ailments. Raw garlic has been a traditional home remedy for thousands of years, as its active compound allicin can help fight inflammatory disease and have antibacterial properties.

Potential side effects include heartburn, gas, bad breath, or diarrhea. Crush or chop the garlic and let it sit for ten minutes to form the allicin before you take it. 

3.    Echinacea

Echinacea (purple coneflower) is another traditional home remedy for many ailments. Research has shown that echinacea can boost the immune system and combat certain viral and bacterial infections.

Proponents recommend taking about 10 mg per two pounds of body weight for about a week and a half, or you can buy a supplement with pre-measured capsules. Potential side effects include dizziness, upset stomach, and nausea. Severe side effects include swelling and difficulty breathing.

4.    Goldenseal

Goldenseal is an herb in the buttercup family. Its beneficial properties come from the alkaline compound berberine, which may reduce the body’s inflammatory response during an infection.

Proponents use goldenseal by mixing it with a cup of warm water and a teaspoon of salt. Then, they take the mixture and gently clean the genital area twice daily for a week. However, goldenseal can have serious side effects, including hallucinations, constipation, and delirium. In large quantities, it can cause heart damage, depression, paralysis, or death.

5.    Turmeric

A prevalent spice and flowering plant in the ginger family, turmeric has antioxidant properties and can also reduce swelling. If you’d like to take turmeric, try sprinkling some onto your food, or make turmeric tea. Although it rarely causes side effects, watch out for diarrhea, nausea, dizziness, or indigestion.

6.    Olive Tree Extract

While no definitive research proves that olive tree extract can treat chlamydia, its natural compound oleuropein has many health benefits, including antiviral, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. You can take between 250 and 1,000 mg daily with food, two to four times daily. Potential side effects include an upset stomach or headache.

7.    Probiotic Diet

Unfortunately, a probiotic diet can’t cure chlamydia. However, if you’re starting a course of antibiotics to treat chlamydia, taking probiotics and eating healthy can help restore your gut, detoxify your body, increase energy, and boost your immune system.

If you’re interested in probiotics, you can try kefir, amasi, kombucha, or a probiotic supplement. Since probiotics already exist in your body, they’re very safe to take. However, sometimes they can cause diarrhea, gas, bloating, or mild indigestion.

8.    Vitamins

Some people advocate using vitamins as a home remedy for chlamydia, such as taking vitamin C and immune-boosting blends in addition to antibiotics. One study found that vitamin C can inhibit the growth of chlamydia. Another option is vitamin B, which helps maintain the integrity of your nerve cells and repair damage.

Vitamin C can cause side effects of indigestion, nausea, heartburn, stomach cramps, or headaches. Vitamin B is fine in small doses, but large quantities can cause high blood sugar, vomiting, or liver damage.

9.    Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil, also known as melaleuca, is another common home remedy people use to treat various ailments, including acne, lice, fungus, and insect bites. Some say that tea tree oil aromatherapy can relieve chlamydia symptoms, or they put a couple of teaspoons in a warm bath and relax. Side effects from aromatherapy include headaches, nausea, or feeling vertigo. You should never swallow tea tree oil or use it internally, as it can have severe side effects.

10. Apple Cider Vinegar

Beyond its use in cooking, people have used this cloudy brown liquid for years to fight inflammation and bacterial infections. Proponents say you can reap its beneficial properties by soaking in a bath. First, they add a few tablespoons of ACV and then sit up in the water for about 45 minutes. Although drinking too much of it can cause harmful side effects (nausea, tooth erosion, throat burns), you can soak in a highly diluted ACV bath without issues.

11. Lemon

Remember that vitamin C has immune-boosting properties? Lemon, or lemon juice, is full of vitamin C. Not only does it help boost your immune system, but it can also help reduce swelling and inflammation. If you’re taking an antibiotic regimen for chlamydia, taking lemon juice every morning may make an excellent addition to your treatment. Too much vitamin C, however, can cause nausea, indigestion, or stomach cramps.

Is Relying on Home Remedies to Treat Chlamydia a Good Idea?

Relying on home remedies to cure chlamydia is not a good idea. Doing so increases your risk of health complications and passing the infection on to your sex partners. The only way to cure chlamydia is with antibiotics. However, if you’re suffering from the symptoms of chlamydia, natural remedies may provide relief until you can get an STD test and see a doctor.

You can also use the home remedies for chlamydia to supplement your antibiotic treatment. For example, you could soak in a tea tree oil bath every night or take an echinacea supplement each morning. Pay close attention to correct dosages to prevent unwanted side effects.

Again, we want to emphasize this: You should never rely on home remedies alone to cure chlamydia. They won’t work, and the infection can significantly damage your reproductive system if you don’t treat it.

Remember, chlamydia is often asymptomatic. If you have unprotected sex with one or more sex partners, you should get regular STD tests. At Rapid STD Testing, we offer a full 10-panel STD test you can order right now on our website. Then, visit one of our convenient locations to give a quick specimen, and you’ll have confidential results in one to three days.

Actual Treatment Options for Chlamydia

If you test positive for chlamydia, you’ll need to get treated.  Can you get treated for chlamydia without going to the doctor? No, you can’t. A doctor must prescribe you a course of antibiotics. However, that doesn’t mean you have to go to your primary healthcare provider for treatment, which can raise your insurance rates. Where can you get treatment?

You can order a testing panel from Rapid STD Testing right here on our website. Since we don’t accept insurance, you don’t have to worry about the results going on your medical records. If your test is negative, you can choose if you want to ask your insurance company for reimbursement.

Continue reading as we discuss the most common antibiotic treatments for chlamydia.

Common Antibiotic Treatments for Chlamydia

Using antibiotics to cure STDs that are bacterial in nature is the best and fastest treatment method. The two most common antibiotics to treat chlamydia include:

  • Azithromycin: Take one gram by mouth as a single dose
  • Doxycycline: Take 100 mg by mouth, twice daily for a week

Alternatively, your doctor may also give you a prescription for these antibiotic treatments:

  • Erythromycin: Take 500 mg by mouth twice a day for a week
  • Tetracycline: Take 500 mg by mouth four times a day for a week
  • Ofloxacin: Take 200 to 400 mg by mouth twice a day for a week

After receiving a chlamydia diagnosis and antibiotic prescription, avoid having sex for seven days. Abstaining from sex is very important because you can still pass chlamydia on to your sexual partners until the infection is completely gone. It’s also critical to finish the treatment regimen, even if you start to feel better.

Another important consideration is what happens after you finish treatment. The CDC recommends getting retested three to four months after your initial treatment to ensure that the infection is completely gone.

Of course, you’ll also need to inform your sexual partners that you had a positive test result for chlamydia. Fortunately, if you have a regular partner, they can take advantage of Expedited Partner Therapy with us at Rapid STD Testing. That means you can get a prescription for your partner without them having to get an examination from another health care provider, which is very convenient.

Pregnant Women and Chlamydia

If you’re pregnant, your treatment for chlamydia will be slightly different. Remember, chlamydia is extremely dangerous to your unborn baby. If you don’t get treated, you could pass the infection on to your baby during birth. Babies born to mothers with chlamydia are at risk of getting an eye infection or even pneumonia.

Pregnant women also take antibiotics to treat chlamydia, just not the same ones as we listed. Typically, doctors will prescribe a course of amoxicillin. In addition, pregnant women need to take a retest three weeks after completing their initial treatment to ensure that the infection is gone.

Visit a Rapid STD Testing Center Today

What’s the key takeaway here? Home remedies for chlamydia can help relieve symptoms, but they’re no substitute for antibiotics and cannot cure an active infection. To cure chlamydia, you need to complete an oral antibiotic regimen.

If you suspect you may have chlamydia, it’s so easy to get tested and treated. Call Rapid STD Testing today at (866) 872-1888, or order a testing panel from our website and stay in control of your sexual health. 

Do Positive STD Results Take Longer? Tips to Staying Calm While Waiting

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If you just took an STD test, you’re probably wondering, “Do positive STD results take longer? Just how fast do you get your STD results after taking a test?” Take a deep breath. It’s only natural to feel anxious while waiting for STD test results. In this article, we’re going to answer all your questions about how long it takes to get STD test results, tips to keep yourself calm while you’re waiting, and how to cope with a positive test.

Whether you take a casual or committed approach to your sexual relationships, the key to maintaining a happy and healthy sex life is getting regular STD tests. At Rapid STD Testing, we offer same-day STD testing, making it simple for you to stay in control of your sexual health. Visit one of our 2500 nationwide locations today for a rapid STD test, or order your testing panel right now on our website.

How Long Does It Take to Get an STD Result?

Now, we’ll discuss how long the test results for STDs are, which vary on many factors. Most STD testing centers can take up to two weeks to provide results, but at Rapid STD Testing, we offer quick online STD results within 24 to 72 hours. However, turnaround times depend on factors like the type of test, the STD you’re testing for, and where you take the test.

Another factor affecting turnaround times is incubation periods, or how long the STD takes to enter your body. If you get tested too quickly, you could receive a false negative, which is why it’s essential to get regular STD testing if you’re sexually active. Here’s a list of the most common STDs, their incubation period, testing types, and average turnaround times.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

  • Incubation: Two to four weeks
  • Testing: Self-testing requires an oral fluid sample with results in 20 minutes
    • Antigen or antibody laboratory blood tests take one to five days
    • Rapid antibody screenings and rapid tests (antigen/antibody) take 30 minutes

Gonorrhea

  • Incubation: One day to two weeks
  • Testing: Gonorrhea testing requires either a blood, urine, or swab sample, either from the cervix, urethra, mouth, or throat
  • Turnaround: One to five days

Chlamydia

  • Incubation: One to three weeks
  • Testing: Chlamydia testing requires a urine or blood sample; swab tests require vaginal cells or urethral cells
  • Turnaround: One to ten days

Trichomoniasis

  • Incubation: Five to 28 days
  • Testing: Trich testing requires a vaginal swab, urethral swab, urine sample, or blood sample
  • Turnaround: One to seven days

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

  • Incubation: One month to ten years
  • Testing: HPV testing requires a cervical swab
  • Turnaround: One to three weeks

Syphilis

  • Incubation: Three weeks to 20 years
  • Testing: Syphilis requires a blood test
  • Turnaround: One to ten days

Herpes (genital and oral)

  • Incubation: Two to twelve days
  • Testing: Herpes testing requires a blood sample or a fluid sample if you have an open sore
  • Turnaround: One to three days

Hepatitis (A,B,C)

  • Incubation: Between two and 26 weeks
  • Testing: Hepatitis testing requires a specific antibody blood test
  • Turnaround: One to three days

You’re probably wondering which STD test takes the longest. HIV antibody blood tests can take a while due to HIV’s long incubation period. The preferred method for testing (and most accurate) is antigen-antibody combination tests.

Do Positive STD Test Results Take Longer?

So, how long till you get STD results? We know the waiting period is extremely stressful. But if you need help, we have a staff of counselors waiting to answer your questions.

If your STD test results haven’t come back right away, don’t panic! Results can take a long time for various reasons and not necessarily because they’re positive. Here are some common reasons why your test results could be taking a long time:

Type of Test: Some tests have longer turnaround times. For example, complete testing panels take longer to process than single testing panels. Also, some STD tests are more complex than others and may require sending your sample to another lab with the necessary equipment.

Clerical Errors: Administrative errors can also affect when you receive your results. For example, let’s say you filled out your contact information incorrectly, or the office lost your paperwork. Either of those scenarios could result in a processing delay.

Lab Issues: Laboratory issues are another common cause of delay. For example, maybe a lab technician made a mistake or the processing equipment isn’t working correctly. Or perhaps the lab was experiencing staffing issues, which caused a backlog in test processing.

Negative Results: Some testing centers will only notify you of your results if they are positive. At Rapid STD Testing, we have a secure online portal where you can view your results, whether they’re positive or negative.

Positive Results: Of course, there is a chance your results could be positive. If it turns out the test is positive, labs will run a second retest to ensure that it wasn’t a false alarm, which can take longer.

Tips to Keep Your Calm While Waiting for STD Test Results

With new cases of STDs growing every year, it can be challenging to remain calm while you’re waiting for test results. According to the CDC, new cases of STDs have increased steadily over the last six years and are currently at an all-time high.

To stay in control of your sexual health, you can order a full 10-panel STD test from our website right now. But after you take the test comes the hard part: waiting. Fortunately, we have some tips that will help you stay calm while you’re waiting. If you have worries about a negative STD result, please read through our informative blog post on the subject to get the answers you need.

1) Be with Your Friends and Family

One of the first places you can turn when you’re stressed or anxious is towards your immediate support system: your family. Unfortunately, not everyone is close enough with their family to speak with them about STD testing. If that’s the case, give your closest friends a call for advice and non-judgmental support.

2) Do Not Drink Too Much Caffeine

Although you probably wouldn’t feel nervous from a few cups of coffee during a typical day, when you’re already stressed, caffeine can take you over the edge. Feeling jittery on top of your racing thoughts will exacerbate your bad feelings. You don’t have to stop altogether, but limiting your intake is a good idea.

3) Start Exercising

Whether you’re a gym lover or you prefer the couch, taking the time to exercise while you’re waiting for test results can help lower your stress levels. The neurotransmitter GABA in your brain is necessary to calm down the excited neurons that create those feelings of stress. A Princeton study found that when mice exercised regularly, their brains could shut off the effects of stress and calm down those excited neurons.

4) Maintain a Proper Sleep Schedule

Maintaining a proper sleep schedule is imperative to stay calm while waiting for test results. Even missing a small amount of sleep can adversely affect your mood, memory, and judgment. In fact, get in an extra hour or two at night to give yourself more time to rest, recover and de-stress.

If you have trouble getting to sleep, try taking melatonin (a natural sleep aid), or you can drink a cup of chamomile or Sleepytime tea. You can also take a long shower or bath, turn off the TV, or you can try reading or listening to music.

5) Limit Your Laptop or Mobile Device Use

We know it’s too easy to fall down the rabbit hole of looking at terrifying pictures and worst-case scenarios. However, try as hard as you can to resist the temptation. Spending too much time online will only make you feel worse. Yes, you should stay informed regarding your sexual health, but it’s a better idea to speak with a health care provider if you have any questions.

6) Reminisce About the Good Memories in Your Life

The last piece of advice on our list for de-stressing while you wait for STD test results is to reminisce on the good memories and happy times in your life. While that may sound cheesy or cliché, you’d be surprised how much it can put you in a good mood.

One way to transport yourself back into a good memory is with your olfactory senses. For example, the fragrance of your mother’s perfume, the smell of your favorite food, or another scent from a good memory can trigger those good feelings.  

Coping with Positive STD Test Results

Coping with a positive STD test result can be difficult. If your test was positive, it does not mean you’re “slutty” or “dirty”—literally anyone can get an STD. It only takes one time! Keep reading for some advice on how you can cope with positive STD results and what to do next:

1) Remember that every STD is either treatable or curable

No matter what STD you tested positive for, please remember that it’s either treatable or curable. You can quickly treat some common STDs with a round of antibiotics. Even HIV is highly manageable, with average life expectancies as long as you get proper treatment.

2) Get treated promptly

Leaving an STD untreated can have devastating effects on your health or fertility. Some can even cause death. At Rapid STD Testing, every patient with a positive result gets a consultation with our care professionals. Then, one of our physicians will prescribe you the proper medication right away.

3) Inform your previous sexual partners

Informing your prior partners is something nobody wants to do, but it’s necessary. Here’s what you could say: “Hey, I just tested positive for (insert STD). My doctor said there’s no way to tell when I got it, so I’m informing my recent sexual partners.”

4) Practice some self-care and love

If you’re coping with a positive STD test result, practicing some self-care and self-love is incredibly important. Whether you buy yourself something new, take a vacation or spa day, or even practice positive affirmations in the mirror, self-love is a great way to feel better during a difficult time.

Visit a Rapid STD Testing Center Today

Hopefully, we’ve now answered the all-important question, “Do positive STD results take longer?” Remember, something as simple as a lab backlog or incorrect contact information can affect your turnaround time. Call Rapid STD Testing at (866) 872-1888 today to order a testing panel and stay in charge of your sexual health.

Vaginal Odor and STD: What You Need to Know

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When noticing an unusual vaginal odor, it’s natural to wonder if you have an STD. You’ve probably heard stories of women receiving an STD diagnosis after complaining about unpleasant vaginal odor.

While it’s true that vaginal odors and an STD often go hand in hand, this fact doesn’t paint the full picture. In reality, you can experience undesirable vaginal odor for many non-STD reasons.

We at Rapid STD Testing have outlined this extensive guide to vaginal odor and STD infections. If you’ve ever wondered, “What STD makes your vag smell?” keep reading to learn more about vaginal odor, STDs, and what you can do about these symptoms.

What Is a Normal Vaginal Odor?

Many women wonder what smell a healthy vagina should even have. Should vaginas smell at all? If so, what’s a normal vaginal scent?

In reality, it’s normal for vaginas to smell, and all vaginas give off a light scent. Many women describe their vaginal smell as “musty,” though the exact smell varies significantly from woman to woman. For this reason, knowing what your vagina typically smells like can clue you in to when it changes.

Though all vaginas smell, a healthy vagina should not give off a foul or fishy odor. You also shouldn’t be able to smell vaginal odor through layers of clothing. So if you’re noticing a stronger or unpleasant smell, that’s a sign something may be off, and you need to get evaluated for an STD.

What STD Causes Vaginal Odor?

The pH environment of a vagina makes up an extremely delicate system. This aspect makes vaginal odor susceptible to STD-driven changes.

That being said, any disrupted vaginal flora will probably cause a change in vaginal scent. However, though STD foul odors can occur, an STD also generally causes several other symptoms.

For instance, most STDs cause a distinctive STD discharge appearance that gives off a fishy or “funky” odor. This altered discharge differs considerably from typical vaginal discharge. Apart from unusual-smelling discharge, most STDs cause discomfort when urinating, pelvic pain, pain during or after intercourse, or reproductive inflammation.

STDs that can alter vaginal odor are:

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis, or “trich,” is an infection caused by the protozoan parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. Trichomoniasis is a very common STD whose primary symptom in women is foul-smelling vaginal discharge. This discharge may take on a white, gray, yellow, or green color and can even include blood. Furthermore, trichomoniasis may cause painful urination and genital itching.

Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis is not an STD but an overgrowth of vaginal bacteria. Sexual activity, particularly unsafe sexual activity, can produce this overgrowth. You can also get BV from non-sexual causes such as douching, which upsets your vagina’s pH levels.

BV’s main symptoms consist of a gray, fishy-smelling vaginal discharge, burning sensation in vagina, vaginal itching, and abdominal pain. Nonetheless, many women with BV experience no symptoms at all, making BV a tricky condition to diagnose.

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is an extremely common bacterial infection that causes mild symptoms. Many women who have chlamydia are entirely asymptomatic. Nonetheless, it may manifest in women as unusual vaginal discharge, pain during urination, and pain during intercourse.

Though chlamydia may produce a stronger vaginal smell, this side effect is most often not the leading symptom. If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to serious issues like vaginal bleeding, pelvic inflammatory disease, and scarring to the reproductive system.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is another prevalent and bacteria-driven infection. In women, it attacks the urethra, throat, or rectum and may even spread to the cervix. Symptoms include increased discharge, abnormal vaginal bleeding, and painful urination. Like chlamydia, gonorrhea can intensify vaginal odor but does not typically produce a fishy or foul-smelling aroma.

If you notice a foul vaginal odor, it’s important to investigate the potential cause or causes. Rapid STD Testing highly recommends you get a 10-panel STD test to elimiate vaginal odor STDs as a cause of your symptoms. Our clinics across the nation offer confidential same-day STD testing.

Non-STD Causes of Abnormal Vaginal Odor

Do you have vaginal odor but no STD? If so, what should you do about your vaginal odor?

Many conditions can influence vaginal scent. Everything from diet to hormones to clothing can significantly impact vaginal odor.

The list below comprises the most widespread non-STD causes of vaginal odor:

  • Diet. Strong-tasting foods such as garlic or onion can make your vagina smell different.
  • Hormonal swings. Throughout your monthly menstrual cycle, hormones such as estrogen and progesterone can change vaginal odor.
  • Sweating. You may notice a stronger vaginal odor while exercising or sweating from excessive heat.
  • Urine. Strong-smelling or burning urine can also shift vaginal odor since the urethra and vagina are so close to each other.
  • Tight-fitting clothing. Tight clothing such as jeans or Spandex does not allow sufficient airflow around the vagina, creating a more intense odor.
  • Sex. Not washing the vagina before and after sex can strengthen its odor.
  • Scented bath products. Lotions, shampoos, and body washes can upset the vaginal flora. When the flora changes, this shift may create an unusual odor.
  • Vaginal infections. A yeast infection is the most common type of non-STD vaginal infection. Yeast overgrowth in the vagina causes this infection. A yeast infection may create a sweet-smelling aroma that resembles beer or bread.
  • Lodged tampon. A forgotten tampon in the vagina will quickly create a foul-smelling odor.
  • Pregnancy. Pregnant women often notice stronger or somewhat altered vaginal odor from fluctuating hormones.

In rare cases, cervical or vaginal cancers may produce a strange vaginal odor. Rectovaginal fistula is another uncommon condition characterized by a tear between the vagina and anus. As a result, it can cause a fecal-tinged odor.

Altogether, many reasons cause unpleasant vaginal odor besides an STD. Only a medical professional can rule out the correct cause for your odor.

Options and Treatment for Abnormal Vaginal Odor

As annoying as vaginal odor is, it’s highly treatable. Your particular treatment plan depends on the underlying cause of your odor. That’s why before testing out any treatment, you must first confirm you are STD-negative, then visit a doctor to see what’s causing your odor.

Rapid STD Testing offers STD screenings at numerous local clinics. The screening process involves samples from inside your vagina that will show whether you have an STD and may also order a urine sample.

If the results show that you have an STD, the next step is to visit your doctor. They’ll likely prescribe you antibiotics that will cure your condition—and get rid of your odor.

If the doctor determines you don’t have an STD, they may recommend various home remedies to manage your vaginal odor. These treatments may include:

  • Washing the vagina more frequently and wearing clean clothing.
  • Drinking more water.
  • Taking probiotics to rebalance your vaginal flora.
  • Practicing safe sex with condom use.

How to Prevent Abnormal Vaginal Odor

Fortunately, you can use many methods to prevent vaginal odor.

The most important step is engaging in safe sex. So, limit your sexual partners, always use condoms, and test for STDs before becoming sexually exclusive with a partner. 

You should also stay mindful of your personal hygiene. Rinse your vagina with water every day. In addition, wear loose-fitting clothing that doesn’t stifle the vagina.

Do not douche or use soap on the vagina. The vagina is self-cleaning, and using these cleaning agents can disrupt its all-important pH balance.

Lastly, pay close attention to certain foods or beverages that seem to change your vaginal odor. For example, many women find that eating garlic changes their vaginal scent. By monitoring your diet, you may discover “trigger” foods or drinks you can reduce or eliminate.

Take Control of STDs and Foul Odors

Don’t suffer needlessly or worry about a vaginal odor STD! Schedule a rapid STD test with Rapid STD Testing at a local testing center.

What Happens If You Let an STD Go Untreated: Worst Scenarios

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Many people put their health at risk by neglecting to get tested for STDs. They believe that they couldn’t have acquired an STI because they are in a long-term monogamous relationship, or they think they are safe because they don’t feel any symptoms. Some delay getting tested out of shame or because they believe an STD will go away on its own.

So, what happens if you let an STD go untreated? Without timely diagnosis and treatment, STDs may lead to serious consequences and even permanent damage. A rapid STD test can protect your health.

Worst-case Scenarios for STDs Left Untreated

Nonexistent, nonspecific, or slow-onset symptoms are probably the most common reasons why STDs often go untreated for a long time. Even with an untreated STD for 3 years, many people aren’t aware that they had contracted an STI because they don’t notice visible symptoms, like vaginal discharge. Some symptoms, like muscle aches, are easy to attribute to other reasons, like periods or the flu.

Some people count on STDs going away without treatment. Unfortunately, in most cases, it won’t happen. An STD left untreated can last for years and slowly wreak havoc on your body.

Here is an overview of some common STDs and what happens if you let an STD go untreated.

Herpes

Genital herpes, caused by the HSV-2 strain of the herpes simplex virus, affects approximately one out of every six Americans aged between 14 and 49. Most herpes carriers aren’t aware of harboring the virus in their system, and the infection can remain dormant for years.

Who’s at risk?

All sexually active individuals who engage in unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex are at risk of herpes.

Worst-case scenario

Some individuals experience severe, frequent outbreaks and open sores that may lead to other infections in people with weak immune systems.

Treatment options

Herpes is incurable, but antiviral medications can shorten outbreaks, relieve symptoms, and reduce infectiousness.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea, often paired with chlamydia, can pass through genital contact or direct contact with body orifices like the mouth and eyes.

Who’s at risk?

People who have unprotected sex or share sex toys without proper disinfection run the risk of contracting gonorrhea.

Worst-case scenario

If a pregnant woman has gonorrhea, her newborn may suffer from blindness or a blood infection. Untreated gonorrhea increases the risk of contracting HIV. Gonorrhea may also cause reproductive system scarring, increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage, and lead to infertility in men and women.

Treatment options

Gonorrhea responds well to antibiotic treatment, although some strains show antibiotic resistance.

Chlamydia

An extremely common STD, chlamydia affects over 1.5 million people in the United States each year. Approximately 50% to 70% of the infected individuals exhibit no symptoms and have no idea they are spreading the infection to their sexual partners.

Who’s at risk?

Individuals who engage in sexual intercourse without a condom are at risk of chlamydia.

Worst-case scenario

Untreated chlamydia in women may lead to PID (pelvic inflammatory disease), severe pelvic pain, vaginal infection, infertility, miscarriages, and preterm labor. In men, chlamydia could cause urethritis and infertility. Chlamydia carriers are also at a higher risk of contracting HIV.

Treatment options

Chlamydia usually clears away completely with a proper course of antibiotics.

Syphilis

Once deadly, syphilis is now easy enough to cure if diagnosed early. However, because of its prolonged symptomless period, syphilis often progresses to an advanced stage and can lead to life-threatening consequences.

Who’s at risk?

Young adults, pregnant women, people with multiple sex partners, and anyone who does not practice safe sex run the risk of catching syphilis.

Worst-case scenario

Without timely treatment, syphilis may lead to widespread inflammation, internal bleeding, liver enlargement, deformations, loss of motor and cognitive functions, and even death.

Treatment options

Penicillin is the recommended medication for syphilis at all stages. Patients who are allergic to penicillin may receive other antibiotics.

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is the most violent of all hepatitis types. This dangerous disease spreads by contact with infected blood, for example by sharing needles and syringes. Mothers can also pass hepatitis C to their babies at birth.

The risk of catching hepatitis C via sexual contact is comparatively low but may increase in anal sex and sex during menstruation. Immunocompromised people (like HIV carriers) are also more likely to contract hepatitis C through their sexual partners.

Who’s at risk?

Those at risk include people with HIV and individuals who engage in unprotected sex, especially anal sex, with multiple partners.

Worst-case scenario

Without timely diagnosis and treatment, hepatitis C may lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, kidney failure, hypertension, and death.

Treatment options

Hepatitis C usually responds well to direct-acting antiviral tablets.

HIV

HIV used to be a death sentence. Today, with advanced therapy, the prognosis for carriers is much brighter, but HIV remains a serious concern since it can remain asymptomatic for years while putting the carrier and their partners at risk.

Who’s at risk?

People who have unprotected sex, especially while suffering from other STDs, such as gonorrhea and chlamydia, are at risk.

Worst-case scenario

Untreated HIV ultimately causes AIDS and immune system failure. People with HIV are at an increased risk for liver and kidney diseases, stroke, osteoporosis, cancer, and early death.

Treatment options

While HIV is incurable, antiretroviral therapy can help carriers live long, healthy lives.

HPV

Over 150 virus strains can cause human papillomavirus (HPV). Some HPV strains are relatively benign, but others may lead to serious long-term consequences, namely several types of cancer. Condoms offer some protection from HPV, yet the virus can also spread through skin-to-skin contact.

The CDC recommends the HPV vaccine for children starting at the age of 11-12, for teens, and for young adults up to 26 years of age.

Who’s at risk?

Teens and young adults under 25 who engage in unprotected sex and who haven’t received the HPV vaccine are at risk of contracting HPV.

Worst-case scenario

HPV may lead to oral and penile cancer in men and to cervical, vulvar, and vaginal cancer in women. HPV may also cause anal and oropharyngeal cancer in both sexes.

Treatment options

HPV is incurable, but most infections clear on their own within two years. Other consequences, like genital warts and cancer, call for targeted treatment.

Here is the bottom line: what happens if you let an STD go untreated depends on the specific STD. To protect your health, Rapid STD Testing offers fast, discreet, and accurate diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

Summary of Consequences for Untreated STDs

Without exception, STDs are far easier to cure completely or keep under control with a quick, accurate diagnosis and proper treatment. In contrast, untreated STDs can seriously endanger the health of carriers and their sexual partners.

Here are some possible consequences of untreated STDs.

Infertility

Some STDs, namely gonorrhea and chlamydia, may lead to PID, scarring of the reproductive tract, and infertility. Men may also suffer from urethral scarring and infertility following untreated STDs.

Some couples only discover that one or both of the partners carry STDs when they visit a fertility clinic after failing to conceive naturally. All men and women who plan to start a family at any point in the future should get tested for STDs.

Complications

With an STD untreated for years, carriers may suffer a host of risky complications, including inflammation, internal organ damage, cancer, and a higher risk of HIV. Timely diagnosis can prevent many of these devastating health consequences.

Unsafe pregnancy

STDs pose a significant risk for pregnant women and unborn babies. STDs may lead to grave outcomes like ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, and preterm birth. Babies of mothers with STDs may contract the infection during pregnancy or at birth and suffer a higher risk of various complications, such as low birth weight and developmental issues.

Spreading to others

Many people believe they can safely engage in unprotected sex because they experience no STD symptoms. Imagine what it feels like to know that you have unintentionally passed an STI to a sex partner, putting their health at risk. For immunocompromised people, even easily curable STIs could be extremely dangerous.

Getting tested for STDs is simple, fast, discreet, reliable, and safe. It is the responsible thing to do to protect yourself and others. All sexually active individuals should get an STD test at least once a year.

We hope that this overview helped answer the question of what happens if you let an STD go untreated. A final word of caution: under some conditions, STD tests may come back with a false-negative result. If you’re looking up “negative STD but still worried,” contact Rapid STD Testing, a network of fast, confidential STD testing clinics with labs across the country.

Don’t Let STDs Go Untreated: Get Tested Today

If you suspect you may have an STD or if you haven’t tested for STDs in a long time, a quick and effective 10-panel STD test can put your mind at ease. Instead of waiting to find out what happens if you let an STD go untreated, contact us to find out more about same-day STD testing.

Does a Pap Smear Test for STDs?

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Give yourself peace of mind by scheduling your regular pap smear today. No one looks forward to their pap smears, but we all understand they can improve our overall reproductive health outcomes. For nearly 100 years, pap smears have helped doctors detect cancer in their patients during the early stages. But does a pap smear test for STDs? 

One might think that a pap smear represents the broadest reproductive health exam. However, the purpose of a pap smear remains narrow in scope. Discover what pap smears entail, why doctors perform them, and who needs them the most below.

What Is a Pap Smear?

The pap smear emerged in the 1920s and tests patients for cancer of the cervix. When you undergo a pap smear, your doctor may scrape away a few abnormal cells for lab tests. Usually, the results come back negative, but it remains prudent to check your cervix as discussed between you and your doctor.

Is a Pap Smear Painful?

In most cases, pap smears feel uncomfortable but not painful. However, for patients with certain irregularities of the vagina or cervix, a pap smear may prove painful. Inform your doctor if your pap smear seems more painful than some of your previous tests.

What Is a Cervix?

The cervix is the uterine gateway to the vagina. The cervix is the passage for emission of menstrual blood and the birth canal through which babies are born. It is also the passage through which the sperms in semen pass to achieve fertilization.

Do I Need to Abstain From Sex Before or After a Pap Smear?

Most medical doctors will ask you to abstain from sex for 24 to 48 hours before the examination. After the pap test, you can have sex right away if you do not notice any significant discomfort.

Where Is a Pap Smear Normally Used?

Once female patients reach adulthood, a pap test becomes a regular screening test. During a pap smear, your doctor will insert a speculum to widen the vaginal canal, providing easy access to the cervix. The doctor will perform a visual examination and collect samples of your cervical cells and mucus.

What Can a Pap Smear Detect?

A pap smear may detect several different health concerns. Some of the most common health issues that a pap smear detects include: 

  • Cervical cancer
  • Other types of cancer with abnormal presentation near the cervix
  • Precancerous cells
  • Signs of human papillomavirus (HPV)

Do They Test for STDs During a Pap Smear? Do Pap Smears Test for STIs?

No, doctors do not test for STDs or STIs during a pap smear since it is a test for cervical cancer only. However, if your doctor encounters any abnormalities, you may need to undergo a separate test for HPV. 

However, while a doctor is performing a vaginal examination as part of a pap test, they may spot evidence of different types of STDs upon visual examination. In that cases, your doctor would need to send a sample to a laboratory to confirm any diagnosis. 

If you need an STD test, you can submit to same-day STD testing to know your results as quickly as possible.

When to Get Separate STD Testing

If you believe you might have an STD, you should request testing from your healthcare provider. Depending on where you go for your pap smear, your doctor may not suggest an STD test unless you have an obvious growth or lesion. Yet, many patients who have STDs remain asymptomatic. You should consider getting a rapid STD test if you:

  • Have unprotected sex
  • Experience a sexual encounter with a new partner
  • Maintain sexual relationships with multiple partners
  • Have sex with an untested or non-monogamous partner
  • Think you may have an STD
  • Suspect your partner may have an STD

What Does STD Testing Entail?

Taking an STD test will require you to undergo STD blood testing and give urine samples. In some cases, you may need to give other types of samples, as well. You may experience minor pain and discomfort when your doctor takes samples during a blood test. However, most patients report that the most agonizing part of STD involves waiting for the results. 

Does a pap smear test for STD? No, but some of the STDs that you can test for at Rapid STD Testing include: 

  • HIV
  • HPV
  • Syphilis
  • Chlamydia
  • Gonorrhea
  • Trichomoniasis
  • Hepatitis A, B, and C
  • Herpes Simplex 1 and 2 

If you do not know what STDs to get tested for, ask your physician for guidance.

Pap Smear vs. HPV Test

A pap smear does not test for HPV or any other STDs. The two types of medical tests remain distinct from each other. However, when a patient’s symptoms meet certain conditions, the pap smear may lead to a secondary HPV test as part of the standard medical protocol. 

HPV affects nearly 80 million Americans. However, many strains of HPV do not cause cancer. 

Sometimes, your doctor may conduct a pap smear and HPV test simultaneously. Both tests follow some of the same procedures, including the collection of cervical cells. 

At the lab, the technician will perform two different tests — one for HPV and one (the pap) for cancer or precancerous cells. Once your doctor reviews your test data, you will receive confirmation of both results by appointment or phone.

Pap Smear vs. Pelvic Exam

A pelvic exam involves a physical examination of your vagina, uterus, ovaries, and other parts of your reproductive system. During the exam, your doctor will use the sense of touch to search for cancer, swollen lymph nodes, and other tactile irregularities. 

A pelvic exam and pap smear remain separate because your doctor will not collect cervical cells as a routine part of your pelvic exam. However, many doctors will combine a pelvic exam, pap smear, and HPV test to work more efficiently and minimize patient discomfort.

What Is a Well-Woman Examination?

A well-woman examination comprises several separate tests, allowing medical practitioners to gain a comprehensive understanding of a woman’s overall reproductive health. It involves examining the breasts and genitals, as well as lab tests.

Breast Exams

You will undergo a few different types of breast exams during a well-woman examination, including:

  • Palpation of the breasts and axillary region for signs of cancer, infection, or benign tumors
  • Self-examination of the breasts to allow patients to feel for themselves
  • Mammogram to detect cancer in its earliest stages

Pelvic Exams

When conducted as part of a well-woman examination or otherwise, pelvic exams go through three steps, including:

  • Visual examination of the external genitalia where the doctor looks for abnormalities
  • Bimanual examination where the doctor feels from the inside and outside simultaneously
  • Speculum examination where the doctor widens the vaginal canal to inspect the cervix

When and Why Get a Pap Smear Test and an HPV Test

While no one looks forward to their first pap smear, we all understand that it represents an absolute necessity for anyone concerned about their health. If you feel apprehensive about your first pap smear or forgot when you should get your next one, you can find the answers to your questions below.

At What Age Is a Pap Smear Done?

Most patients receive their first pap smears at age 21. However, doctors may recommend pap smears for younger patients when they detect irregularities of the cervix, especially if the patients are sexually active. Patients younger than 21 should not worry about a negative result until their doctors receive the test data from the laboratory.

How Often Do I Need a Pap Smear?

In general, women should get a pap smear every three years unless test results return positive or the doctor notices an abnormality during a later exam. In such cases, your doctor may recommend additional pap smears in the short term.

What If the Doctor Detects an Abnormality?

Do not panic if your doctor discovers an abnormality during a pap smear. Most of the time, whatever the doctor finds will carry a low-risk prognosis. Your physician can use cryotherapy to remove precancerous cells or suspicious growths before they mature into more serious conditions.

What If the Doctor Detects Cancer?

Localized cervical cancer remains highly treatable. Patients can expect 5-year survivability greater than 90%. In most cases, your doctor can remove or destroy the cancerous lesions. However, if you put off your pap smear for several years, it provides any cervical cancer the opportunity to spread and become regional or distant, in which cases, survivability plummets.

When Should I Take My First HPV Test?

Doctors recommend that you take your first HPV test sometime between ages 25 and 30 because patients in this age bracket have a higher infection rate. However, younger individuals can contract the disease, including those who have practiced abstinence their entire lives.

How Often Should I Get Tested for HPV?

Patients should get tested for HPV every five years at the most. Individuals who engage in sexual relationships with multiple partners may want to take the HPV test more frequently.

Rapid STD Testing | Pap Smears Near Me

Does a pap smear test for STDs? Unfortunately, no. But you can put your mind at ease with a 10-panel STD test from Rapid STD Testing. Call one of our representatives today at (866) 872-1888 or visit one of our 4,000+ testing centers around the country.

What Is a Dental Dam, and How Can It Help Prevent STDs?

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Have you ever asked yourself, “What is a dental dam?” Although dental dams aren’t the most popular prophylactics, they’re an effective (yet sadly underutilized) method of protecting yourself from STDs. The key to being in a healthy sexual relationship is twofold: educating yourself on using protection and getting regular STD tests.

At Rapid STD Testing, we make it easy for you to stay in control of your sexual health and wellbeing. You can order a testing panel online right now and visit one of our 2500 nationwide locations for accurate, confidential, and same-day STD testing.

In this article, we’re going to explain all about dental dams, including what they are, how to use them correctly, and which STDs they can prevent.

What Is a Dental Dam Used for?

So, what is a dental dam, and how does it work? A dental dam is a thin latex or polyurethane barrier that goes over the vagina or anus to block bodily fluids and prevent the transmission of STDs during oral-to-genital contact. Dental professionals first created them to facilitate tooth isolation and prevent bacterial contamination during dental procedures.

In the 1990s, people began to use dental dams as protection during oral sex. However, the original dental dams were small, thick, and didn’t allow for much sensation.

Fortunately, Glyde Health manufactured a sex-specific version in 1994 after receiving FDA approval. In addition, the Glyde Dam was much thinner than the original version, so it allows users to still feel stimulation if you use one while receiving oral sex. You can also buy other brands in stores, online, or even get them for free at a health clinic.

How to Use Dental Dams

Did you know you can get an STD in the mouth if you don’t use protection during oral sex? Educating yourself on different forms of protection, like how to use dental dams, can protect you from an oral STD. Also, a dental dam isn’t the same as a female condom. A female condom goes inside the vagina, whereas a dental dam lies over the vulva or anus.

You may be wondering, “How does a dental dam stay in place?” Using a dental dam is very simple. First, take it out of the package and unfold it. Next, rub a small amount of water- or silicone-based lubricant on your partner’s genitals (this also helps prevent the rubber from tearing) and then lay the dental dam flat over the top. You may also need to hold it in place with your hands. Avoid oral contact with any uncovered area during oral sex.

Dos and Don’ts of Using a Dental Dam on the Vagina

If you’re going to have sex, you owe it to yourself to use protection correctly. Don’t worry—we’ve got all the most important dos and don’ts right here on how to use dental dams:

The Dos of Using Dental Dams:

  • DO read the instructions on the package and check the expiration date before using a dental dam.
  • DO store your dental dams in a dry, cool place.
  • DO use a brand-new dental dam every time.
  • DO use a silicone- or water-based lubricant first to keep the dental dam in place and prevent breakage.
  • DO check for holes or tears in the dental dam before using it. If it’s broken, throw it away.
  • DO put a dental dam on every time you have oral sex and keep it in place the entire time.
  • DO try using flavored dental dams if you’re squeamish about the taste.

The Don’ts of Using Dental Dams

  • DON’T flip the dental dam over during oral sex after using one side.
  • DON’T stretch out the dental dam, as doing so could cause tears in the material.
  • DON’T make a dental dam out of a condom you have already used.
  • DON’T flush a used dental dam; throw it in the garbage can instead.
  • DON’T use oil-based lubricants, such as petroleum jelly or baby oil; they can create holes in the dental dam.
  • DON’T use the spermicide nonoxynol-9 on a dental dam, as it could cause tiny holes or tears.

How to Make a Dental Dam

If you don’t have an “official” dental dam, you can create one in a pinch by cutting a square shape out of a latex glove, condom (unused!), or non-porous plastic wrap.

Condom: Take a non-lubricated condom, cut off the tip, then cut vertically up the side to create a square.

Glove: Take a latex or plastic glove and cut the fingers off (you can leave the thumb if you want). Then, starting with the pinky finger side, cut from the wrist to the top of the glove.

Plastic Wrap: Cut out a large square. If you’re going to use plastic wrap, choose the non-porous kind. Typically, that’s the kind you can’t microwave. Still, any form of protection is better than nothing at all.

STDs That You Can Prevent by Using Dental Dams

Getting an STD from oral sex in your mouth or throat is entirely possible if you skip out on using protection. If you don’t use a dental dam during oral sex, you put yourself at risk of getting any STD that spreads via skin-to-skin contact.

At Rapid STD Testing, we want you to be well-informed regarding your sex life. That’s why we offer fast, accurate, and confidential STD testing. Just come into our nearest location, and you’ll have your results in one to three days.

Here are some STDs that you can prevent by using dental dams:

  • Chlamydia
  • Syphilis
  • Gonorrhea
  • HIV
  • Hepatitis
  • HPV (human papillomavirus)

What Doesn’t a Dental Dam Protect Against?

A dental dam doesn’t protect against every STD, particularly if your mouth comes into contact with unprotected skin, such as around the edges of the dam. Here are the STDs you can still catch despite using a dental dam:

Herpes (HSV-1 and HSV-2): You can catch herpes even if your partner isn’t showing visible symptoms. However, you can also get it if your partner has an open sore the dental dam doesn’t cover.

Scabies: These tiny mites spread via regular skin-to-skin contact or through clothing.

Pubic lice (crabs): Pubic lice can spread from skin-to-skin contact and through clothing.

Genital warts: If your partner has genital warts, you could catch HPV if your mouth comes into contact with one outside of the dental dam.

If you have sexual contact with one or more partners, you should also get regular STD tests. Luckily, it’s very simple. At Rapid STD Testing, we offer a full 10-panel STD test you can order right now on our website. After you give us a quick cheek swab or urine sample, you’ll have results in 24 to 72 hours. So when you need a rapid STD test, we’ve got you covered.

Visit a Rapid STD Testing Center Today

Hopefully, we’ve now answered your question, “What is a dental dam?” This thin piece of latex or polyurethane can help protect you and your partner from transmitting STDs during oral sex. You can also keep yourself protected by getting regular STD tests. Order your testing panel right now on the Rapid STD Testing website and stay in control of your sexual health.