Archives for August 2022

Social media users often publish defamatory statements to get more clicks and grow their following. However, making a false statement that injures someone’s reputation can have far-reaching consequences.

The legal battle between the rapper Cardi B (Belcalis Almánzar) and blogger Tasha K (Latasha Kebe) demonstrates the repercussions of discussing someone’s reproductive health.

Cardi B filed a bitter STD defamation lawsuit against Tasha K after the blogger posted false rumors that the “WAP” rapper was a prostitute and drug abuser who contracted sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

In this article, our team at Rapid STD Testing discuss the lessons we learned from this case.

Where It All Began: Cardi B vs. Tasha K

The feud between Cardi B and Tasha K began in September 2018, while the rapper was pregnant. The internet blogger posted around 38 YouTube videos focusing on Cardi B’s personal life.

The first video that Tasha K uploaded (September 19) was an interview with a woman who claimed to have known Cardi B before she started her music career. According to the interviewee, Cardi B made a living as a prostitute, and she abused hard drugs, including cocaine and 3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine (Molly).

In another video, Tasha K claimed that Cardi B’s unborn child had a risk of intellectual disabilities, supposedly because of the rapper’s destructive lifestyle.

Some of Tasha K’s videos also claimed that Cardi B contracted a sexually transmitted disease (STD). According to Tasha K, Cardi B suffered herpes (HSV) outbreaks around her mouth.

Cardi B’s Reaction

After the first slanderous video appeared on Tasha K’s YouTube channel, Cardi B’s lawyer sent the YouTuber a cease-and-desist letter, demanding that she remove the video immediately.

Instead of removing the video, Tasha K uploaded another video, claiming that the allegations in her previous video were accurate. The YouTuber also stated that Cardi B was cheating on her husband.

Cardi B contacted Tasha K via private message, expressing anger over the statements at issue. In response, Tasha K invited Cardi B for an interview on her YouTube channel, but Cardi B declined the invitation.

In March 2019, Cardi B filed an STD defamation lawsuit against Tasha K. The rapper claimed that Tasha K engaged in a malicious campaign of untrue statements against her to promote her gossip website.

Initially, the interviewee in the September 19 video was also a defendant. However, a judge filing terminated the claim against her in November 2020.

According to the lawsuit, Tasha K had a reckless disregard for the truth, and her offensive statements caused Cardi B emotional distress.

Does Cardi B Have STDs? 

When taking STD defamation claims to trial, a plaintiff must prove that the defendant:

• Made a false written or oral statement of fact
• Published or communicated the statement to a third person while knowing that it is or might be false
• Caused harm to the reputation of the person who is the subject of the statement

In an STD defamation lawsuit, the plaintiff’s STI status is significant, as it can prove the first element of defamation.

In Cardi B’s case, Judge William M. Ray II ordered the Center for Women’s Pelvic Health to release Cardi B’s STD results.

If Cardi B’s STI test results were negative, it would prove that Tasha K made defamatory statements while knowing that she had a lack of evidence to back up her claims. In this case, Cardi B would only have had to prove that Tasha K’s statements caused damages, such as emotional distress or harm to her reputation.

Note: Same-day STD testing can play a crucial role in STD defamation cases. However, the courts might also order STD testing during a criminal case. For example, if you don’t inform a sexual partner of your STD, you might face a criminal charge or a civil lawsuit.

Click here to learn whether giving someone an STD is illegal.

Cardi B Tests Negative and Wins: Lessons We Can Learn from This Development

The STD results that the court ordered in the Cardi B case were negative for herpes and human papillomavirus (HPV). Consequently, the Atlanta jury who heard the case found Tasha K liable for defamation, infliction of emotional distress, and invasion of privacy.

The jury awarded Cardi B the following:

• $3 million in punitive damages
• $1 million in damages for pain and suffering
• $250,000 as compensation for medical expenses

On April 4, 2022, Judge William Ray granted a gag order against Tasha K, giving her five days to remove all content on Cardi B from her YouTube channel. Under this order, Tasha K may never create and publish content about Cardi B again.

Even though Tasha K will appeal this verdict, she will likely pay a high price for her claims about Cardi B’s STI status.

The most critical lesson from Cardi B’s STD defamation lawsuit is that making public statements about someone’s sexual health is rarely a good idea.

Defamation can be due to malice or negligence. Suppose you reasonably foresee that a statement about someone’s STD status might be false and harmful to their reputation and relationships. In this case, if you make the statement anyway, you might face a civil claim.

Apart from these legal repercussions, you don’t want your statements to be the cause of someone else’s hardships in life.

Order Rapid STD Testing Today

Knowing your health status can help you take on an STD defamation lawsuit. At Rapid STD Testing, we can provide you with a rapid STD test or a 10-panel STD test to detect potentially life-threatening diseases.

Our STD tests are safe, accurate, and discreet. Enter your zip code to find one of our labs near you, or call (866) 872-1888. We also have medical experts and consultants available to provide STD care.

Do you have dry or itchy skin? If so, you may have an STD. Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) sometimes cause overt and unmistakable symptoms like sores, rashes, and genital pain, although some people experience other symptoms like dry skin around the body. 

At Rapid STD Testing, we want to educate you about STDs that cause dry skin so you can better understand STDs’ potential effects upon your health. Continue reading to learn more about each, or explore our additional resources on contracting an STD while wearing a condom and understanding Neisseria meningitis. 

What STD Causes Dry Skin?

Many STDs create external reactions, causing your skin to break out in painful or painless lumps, sores, lesions, and rashes.

Occasionally, infected individuals may get dry skin rashes instead of noticeable bumps. A skin rash may not seem serious at the time, though if it comes from an STD, you should seek treatment options to prevent further disease progression. 

So, what STD causes dry skin? Continue reading below to learn about each STD and the underlying non-sexual contact conditions that could cause the dryness symptom. 

HPV, HSV, HIV 

HPV, HSV, and HIV are all viruses that lead to some of the conditions we have discussed above. 

• HPV: Human papillomavirus infection causes itchy warts on the skin, usually around the genitals and anus. 
• HSV: Herpes simplex virus causes herpes, which can create dry rashes around the mouth or genitals, depending on if you have type one or two. 
• HIV: Human immunodeficiency virus can cause AIDS, a severe condition with many side effects, including dry, itchy skin. 

HPV and Genital Warts

Human papillomavirus infection (HPV) causes genital warts. Genital warts usually appear in clusters as small, skin-colored bumps around the vagina, penis, or anus. Usually, the entire infected area feels itchy and painful. 

If the skin around your genitals feels itchy, but you don’t notice bumps, you could still be in the developing stages of genital warts. At first, the lesions appear no larger than razor bumps, so you might not yet realize your condition. 

We recommend taking a rapid STD test any time you feel unusual itching or burning around your genitals or anus so that you can protect yourself and your sexual partner. You can purchase testing kits from Rapid STD Testing. 

Herpes (HSV)

Herpes is a viral infection stemming from the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Two types of herpes exist, including oral and genital herpes. Each causes small warts around the affected area, though occasionally, people also suffer itchy, dry skin and rashes. 

Herpes spreads through skin-to-skin contact, which means that condoms aren’t always effective if they don’t cover the entire contagious region. You can even get oral herpes from sharing drinks. 

Herpes-positive individuals may experience anything from zero reactions to severe conditions causing fevers and swollen lymph nodes. Contracting herpes increases your likelihood of eczema herpeticum, a serious skin infection causing itching, tingling, and burning sensations around the neck and head. 

HIV and AIDS

If you contract human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), you may develop acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), a life-threatening condition. HIV damages your immune system, so if you develop AIDS, your body will struggle to fight off many dangerous bacteria and viruses. 

HIV spreads through body fluids, including blood and genital secretion. You can contract HIV through sexual intercourse or sharing dirty needles. Because of the prevalence and severity of AIDS, providers now offer HIV preventative medications for higher-risk individuals. 

Like other STDs that cause dry skin, AIDS has many side effects, including itchy rashes. If you notice internal symptoms alongside your itchy skin, you should get tested for HIV. 

Syphilis

Syphilis is another flaky-skin STD, though the symptoms usually appear later. The bacterial infection spreads through sexual contact and first appears as small hard lumps on the genital or mouth regions. Once the lumps disappear, Stage Two syphilis causes a dry, itchy rash. 

Usually, the rash appears three to six weeks after onset. You may notice patches around the soles of your feet and the palms of your hands. People also sometimes suffer flu-like symptoms when the rash appears.

Unfortunately, many people confuse Stage Two syphilis with other conditions. When left untreated, syphilis spreads into vital areas of the body, including the eyes, brain, and nervous system. Latent-stage syphilis is often fatal. 

Other Possible Causes of Dry Skin

Aside from STDs, many different conditions can make your skin itchy. Anything from a fungal infection to chronic eczema (seborrheic dermatitis) could cause irritation and dryness. If your STD screening returns negative, we recommend seeing a dermatologist to rule out the following conditions. 

Yeast Infection

Yeast infections often mimic the symptoms of STDs that cause dry skin, making it hard to determine which you have. Vaginal yeast infections come from the fungus candida, causing severe itchiness, inflammation, and thick, white vaginal discharge. You can also get oral yeast infections, though you likely won’t have an exterior rash. 

You can easily resolve a yeast infection with a single-dose antifungal cream or oral drug. If you wait too long, you might need additional treatments to rid your body of the infection. 

Often, STDs cause foul-smelling discharge and clusters of lumps. The best signifiers to distinguish between yeast infections and STDs are the lack of lumps and the distinctly odorless discharge of STDs. 

Jock Itch

Tinea cruris, commonly called jock itch, is a fungal infection that causes red itchy rashes. The infection earned its name because it typically appears in hot, moist areas like the groin, inner thighs, and genitals. You can also get jock itch in your armpits, beneath your breasts, or in other sweaty areas. 

Usually, the jock itch rash appears in ring shapes. You can prevent it by wearing loose clothes and breathable materials. If you get jock itch, you can treat it with topical antifungal medications. 

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a common chronic condition that causes large patches of dry, itchy skin around the scalp, knees, elbows, and trunk. The rashes typically worsen after triggering events like stress, colds, and infections. Occasionally, people with psoriasis may also experience joint pain or nail problems. 

Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up too quickly, causing them to form scaly dry patches. Unfortunately, you can’t cure the disease, though different treatments can alleviate symptoms and reduce the overproducing skin cells. 

Importance of Awareness of Dry Skin STD

Learning about each dry skin STD may seem unimportant, though such education can save lives. The key to beating or managing any disease is early diagnosis. When STDs progress for months or years without interference, they may travel deeper into the body, damaging vital organs and systems. 

For example, syphilis appears as a simple rash in the beginning. The rash goes away on its own, so people usually think nothing of it. Years later, though, the disease comes back in full force, attacking the nervous system, eyes, and brain, potentially killing the victim.  

Skin conditions are challenging to understand on your own, especially when many mimic each other’s symptoms. Attempting to self-diagnose and treat bacterial and viral infections usually won’t work. Understanding how the different STDs that cause dry skin act and appear can help you know when you should see a doctor and get tested. 

The more you spread awareness of common STD symptoms, the more people will successfully resolve their untreated conditions. Learning what the symptoms look like can also help you identify potential contagious spots on a sexual partner. For example, your partner may believe they have a yeast infection, though if you see a cluster of bumps, you’ll know to practice extra caution as it might be herpes or something similar. 

Follow these tips to spread awareness:

• Encourage your sexual partners to receive regular screenings
• Help partners understand treatment options if results come back positive
• Start open conversations about STD-related subjects
• Expand your knowledge on the topic with more articles like this one
• Share information and tips with your online community and friends
• Make your friends and partners feel safe if they need to come to you for advice
• Erase any negative STD perceptions you have

Risk Factors of STDs That Cause Dry Skin

You can contract an STD that causes dry skin in several ways. The main risk factors for herpes, syphilis, AIDS, and genital warts include:

• Having protected or unprotected sex with an infected person
• Engaging with multiple sexual partners in a short period
• Using contraceptives incorrectly
• Having an existing sexually transmitted infection (STI)
• Engaging in sex with a compromised immune system from AIDS or other conditions
• Injecting drugs with unsanitary needles
• Having sex at a young age
• Doing drugs or consuming excessive alcohol before having sex
• Living in an area with a high concentration of sex workers

Many people don’t avoid all the bullet points above because they don’t understand the true ramifications of contracting an STD. The STDs that cause dry skin often lead to other, more severe issues when left untreated. 

• Herpes: Herpes causes open sores in your genital region, which increases your chances of contracting additional STDs, like HIV and AIDS. Severe herpes complications include bladder problems, meningitis, rectal inflammation, and pregnancy complications. Newborns can get herpes from their mothers during delivery, causing infant blindness, brain damage, and death. 
• Syphilis: Syphilis leads to some of the most severe complications when untreated, including skin, bone, liver, and organ tumors. When the infection attacks the nervous system, individuals suffer neurological problems like strokes, blindness, dementia, bladder dysfunction, loss of sensations, and hearing loss. Syphilis may also spread into the aorta artery and also cause stillbirths (if pregnant). 
• AIDS: AIDS compromises your body’s ability to fight off common bacteria and viruses, placing you at an increased risk for many severe illnesses and diseases. 
• Genital warts: Genital warts come in a few different strains, one of which causes cervical cancer, which can be fatal. People with genital warts also have increased risks of contracting other STDs because of the open wounds. 

Treatment and Prevention of Dry Skin Due to STDs

The best treatment for STDs that cause dry skin is to avoid catching them altogether. Practicing safe sex maintains your health and reduces the overall public spread of such dangerous conditions. You can do your part by adhering to the following recommendations:

• Use a condom during all sexual activities
• Replace the condom if it slips or tears
• Minimize your number of sexual partners
• Wash before, during, and after sex
• Use a separate clean-up towel from your partner
• Don’t touch anything with open wounds, sores, or cuts
• Receive regular 10-panel STD test screenings
• Get tested if you notice symptoms

If results do come back positive, don’t fret. The earlier you learn of your condition, the easier it will be to treat. The common treatment options for all of the STDs that cause dry skin are:

• Herpes: Doctors don’t have a herpes cure, though you can take an antiviral medication to reduce symptoms as they appear. Acyclovir or valacyclovir are common antiviral drugs that minimize herpes outbreaks. 
• Syphilis: You can be 100% cured from the earlier stages of syphilis with a long-acting Benzathine penicillin G single injection. If you wait until the final stage, you can take multiple doses of this medication to attempt to rid your body of the infection, though it won’t always work. 
• AIDS: HIV and AIDS don’t have cures, though different treatments reduce the virus’s effectiveness in your body, thus alleviating some symptoms. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) helps slow the disease’s progress and prolong your life. 
• Genital warts: Topical anti-tumor medications can help you get rid of genital warts faster, or you can surgically remove the larger lesions. You can also get a vaccine against the HPV strain that causes cervical cancer. 

Are STDs Causing Your Itchy Skin? Get Tested Today!

STDs that cause dry skin are dangerous because many victims don’t understand the gravity of their condition. At Rapid STD Testing, we want to educate you about all STDs so you can get tested, treated, and stay safe. Order same-day STD testing from Rapid STD Testing or call us at (866) 872-1888 to speak with our team for more information!

Many people assume they can only get sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) from penetrative sex, though this misconception only increases the spread. If you’re wondering, “Can you get an STD from a handjob?” you’re not alone. 

At Rapid STD Testing, we’re here to educate you on all the common infections from sexual contact so that you can stay safe. Learn about the trends and statistics when it comes to STDs if you want to know which you should watch out for most.

Read on as we discuss whether or not you can get an STD from a handjob—that is, one sexual partner’s manual touch of the other partner’s genitals to try to bring them to orgasm. 

Handjob STD Risks

Can you get an STD from giving a handjob? Although handjobs and oral sex are safer than penetrative sex because they reduce pregnancy risks, you can still get an STD from skin-to-skin contact. 

So, how can you get a handjob-related STD? 

• Touching your own genitals after touching your partner’s: Any bacteria or viruses can enter your system if you touch your partner and get their genital secretions on your hands before touching yourself. 
• Fingering your partner’s anus: The rectal region contains dangerous fecal bacteria that shouldn’t enter other body parts. If you finger your partner’s anus and don’t adequately disinfect yourself afterwards, you might put yourself and your partner at risk of spreading the bacteria to the genitals or mouth. 
• Giving a handjob with an open wound on your hand: Bacteria and viruses can enter your body through different passageways. Open wounds offer instant entry points for dangerous infections. If you give your partner a handjob with a cut on your finger, the skin contact or body fluids could allow bacteria to enter your body. 
• Not washing your hands afterwards: Washing your hands before, during, and after handjobs reduces the spread of germs. If you don’t disinfect, you might accidentally touch your face, mouth, or genitals, transferring the STD. 

Can You Get an STD From Giving a Handjob?

Yes, all parties participating in sexual activities can get an STD, even if you’ve only touched each other with your hands. Some STDs spread through skin contact, while others transfer through penile and vaginal fluids. Regardless, you might become exposed to such infectious fluids during any fingering or manual stimulation activities. 

The handjob giver experiences more STD risks than the receiver since you’re exposing yourself to another person’s genital region while they only have contact with your hands. A receiver may also get an STD if the giver didn’t properly wash before touching any regions. 

What Possible STDs Can You Get From a Handjob?

Can you get an STD from a handjob? Yes. But which ones should you watch out for? 

Herpes 

Herpes is a common STD that causes painful red sores around the genitals or mouth regions (and sometimes both). People don’t always display symptoms of herpes, so they can spread the disease without realizing it. 

You can get herpes from a handjob if an infected person touches their genitals before touching you. The STD can also spread through genital secretions and spit. 

In rare cases, infected individuals get herpetic blisters on their hands that look like open sores. The painful wounds can infect you with herpes if your partner touches your genitals. 

Genital Lice 

Genital lice, commonly called “crabs,” are small insects that feed on human blood and thrive in pubic hair. Like head lice, these creatures jump from person to person quite easily. You can get genital lice from direct skin contact or by sharing clothing or towels. 

Genital lice are often visibly noticeable, although you might not be able to see them in dimly lit rooms. We recommend washing your hands carefully and using a fresh personal towel (that is, not shared) to clean up. 

Syphilis 

Syphilis is a bacterial infection that progresses through long stages, beginning with lumps that look like painless genital warts, then a rash, before eventually damaging the brain, eyes, nerves, and heart (if left untreated for years). 

Syphilis spreads through skin contact, so your partner might spread it to you if they touch their own infected area before giving you a handjob. Because of this risk, pregnant mothers can also infect their unborn babies with syphilis during pregnancy. 

Mononucleosis

Mononucleosis, commonly called mono or “the kissing disease,” is a viral infection usually related to the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). Sexually active individuals can spread mono through saliva or genital secretion, so you could get it just from kissing your partner during sexual play or a handjob. If you get sick, you’ll suffer flu-like symptoms for a few weeks or months. 

Molluscum Contagiosum

The Molluscum virus acts similarly to poison ivy. The red bumps spread through skin contact, and scratching them makes them spread to more areas on your body. Usually, the blisters surround your lower abdomen, thighs, and genitals. 

Since the virus lives on the skin, doctors must freeze or laser the bumps to remove the contagious areas. Occasionally, they may dissolve on their own. 

Safety Precautions and Treatment 

Can you get an STD from a handjob? We hope by now you realize that the answer is “Yes”! 

How can you prevent an infection from happening? Follow the safety precaution tips below: 

• Wash before and after: Wash your genitals and hands before engaging in sexual activities to kill off bacteria and reduce the spread. After giving or receiving a handjob, wash again before touching your face, mouth, or genitals. 
• Avoid contact with bumps or wounds: Small, round bumps, warts, or lesions often signify an STD. If you notice your partner has any lumps, refrain from contact. If you still wish to continue, cover the infected area. 
• Use the barrier method: Barriers include condoms for the penis, internal condoms for vaginas, or dental dams for the anus or vulva. Such tools are effective for preventing STDs during all sexual contact activities. 
• Sanitize all toys: Certain STDs spread through inanimate objects, such as sex toys. We recommend sanitizing all toys before and after each partner uses them to reduce the spread. 
• Minimize sex partners: The fewer partners, the less likely you’ll contract an STD. You should stick with people you know and trust, especially those who regularly receive testing. 
• File your fingernails: Long, sharp fingernails could scrape or cut skin. Minor wounds increase your chances of contracting an infection. File down your nails to keep your skin intact. 
• Use different hands: A leading cause of STDs from handjobs is when one person touches their own infected area before touching their partner’s genitals. You and your partner should always use different hands when manipulating yourselves and each other. 
• Encourage your partner to take a rapid STD test: Anyone participating in handjobs should regularly receive STD screenings. Learning about potential conditions helps you reduce the spread and get ahead on treatments. You can order same-day STD testing for fast and convenient results from Rapid STD Testing or visit a local clinic. 
• Watch out for symptoms: If you notice any symptoms, you should stop having sex immediately and get tested as soon as you can. The sooner you treat your condition, the more likely you can enjoy a full recovery (depending on the type of infection).

What symptoms should you watch out for? 

• Bumps or lesions around the genitals or mouth
• Strange discharge smell or consistency coming from the vagina or penis
• Pain when urinating
• A constant need to urinate
• Pain, itching, or swelling around the genitals
• Fever
• Genital redness
• Abdominal discomfort
• Pain during sex
• Discolored urine  

If you notice any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor to discuss treatment options. Depending on your condition, you might need a topical ointment, prescription antibiotic, antiviral drug, or more.

Manual Sex Isn’t Safe From STDs—Get Tested Today!

Can you get an STD from a handjob? Yes, so you and your partner should receive regular STD screenings to avoid accidentally infecting each other. At Rapid STD Testing, we offer a comprehensive 10-panel STD test for all the most common bacterial and viral infections. 

To learn more, call us at (866) 872-1888 to speak with our Rapid STD Testing team or visit a local clinic!

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 20 million U.S. residents contract a sexually transmitted disease (STD) or sexually transmitted infection (STI) each year. But why?

Often, infected people spread STDs without knowing they’ve contracted one. STDs with no symptoms frequently cause people to live for months or years without experiencing any reactions. 

Learning about these silent operators and scheduling regular screenings helps protect your sexual health. At Rapid STD Testing, we provide same-day STD testing so you can learn about any possible conditions. Many STDs have no symptoms, so continue reading to learn about each. 

The STDs That Don’t Show Any Symptoms

Every STD or STI with no symptoms is inherently more dangerous and contagious than others. Completing laboratory tests is the only way to confirm whether or not you have an asymptomatic STD. Below, we discuss the onset and symptom manifestation for each top silent operator. 

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a common condition that frequently displays no symptoms of an STI. Women under 25 have the greatest risk of contracting chlamydia. If you suffer symptoms, you might feel painful urination or abnormal vaginal discharge a few weeks after contracting the infection. 

Unfortunately, such symptoms also frequently come with conditions like yeast infections and vaginosis. By the time you notice the symptoms, the infection may have spread into your fallopian tubes and uterus, causing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID compromises your reproductive health since it can leave permanent scar tissue build-ups that block and damage the fallopian tubes. 

Pregnant women with chlamydia have increased risks of ectopic pregnancies, which can be fatal for the child and the mother.

Women under 25, pregnant women, and anyone who participates in sexual activity with new sex partners should receive regular chlamydia tests. If your results return positive, doctors can easily treat the condition with antibiotics since you discovered it early on.  

HPV

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common STD, spreading via skin-to-skin contact, although not everyone experiences the common symptoms when they have it. 

HPV comes in multiple forms. Frequently, people develop genital warts weeks or months after contracting the infection. Women with HPV have increased risk factors for cervical cancer, which can be fatal. 

While some strains may lead to noticeable symptoms, most HPV strains don’t cause any reactions, particularly for men. Like other STDs with no symptoms, HPV easily spreads because people don’t realize they have it, and condoms don’t protect against contraction. 

We recommend receiving HPV screenings from your healthcare provider. You can also order a rapid STD test online from Rapid STD Testing or visit a local clinic. Aside from testing, women should consider the vaccine for preventing the HPV strain that causes cervical cancer.

Herpes

Herpes is a viral infection that comes in two common forms:

• Oral herpes: Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) creates breakouts around the lips and mouth. 
• Genital herpes: Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) causes painful genital infections. 

The CDC believes one in six Americans between the ages of 14 and 49 has herpes, though only 90% with HSV-2 notice their symptoms. Generally, symptoms would involve painful red sores in the inflicted area, though you can contract and spread the infection without any visible bumps. 

Herpes spreads from skin-to-skin contact, so condoms aren’t always effective. To reduce your risk of infection, ask your partner to get tested and ensure that you use condoms and dental dams correctly without letting them slide off. 

Currently, we have no cure for herpes, so if you contract the STD, you will continue living with it. Luckily, you can use different treatment methods to ease your symptoms if you have any.

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a lesser-known parasitic STD that 30% of people suffer symptoms from, according to the CDC. Women with symptoms often suffer painful, itchy, burning urination and foul-smelling vaginal discharge. Symptomatic men experience itching and burning sensations when ejaculating or peeing and penile discharge. 

Untreated trichomoniasis compromises your sexual health and increases your chances of contracting other more severe STDs, like HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), which can lead to AIDS. Women with trichomoniasis also might have pregnancy complications resulting in premature labor and low birth weights. 

Certain U.S. regions have higher trichomoniasis rates. If you live near a high concentration of sex workers or frequently have new partners, you should regularly receive testing. With an early diagnosis, you can easily treat trichomoniasis using antibiotics. 

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea shares many similarities with chlamydia. Young adult women have the greatest risk of contracting it, and most won’t notice symptoms when they do. Often, those who do experience symptoms don’t realize the severity since they mimic common conditions like vaginal and bladder infections.

Untreated gonorrhea can lead to PID, which damages the reproductive organs and can lead to infertility. If gonorrhea spreads throughout the body, it can cause fatal blood, heart, brain, and joint infections. Getting gonorrhea also increases your chances of contracting HIV and AIDS. 

You can cure gonorrhea with antibiotics before it advances into the conditions above, but you must get tested first. 

Lower Your Risks of Getting STDs

If you’re sexually active, you can get STDs with no symptoms, regardless of your age, gender, or sexual orientation. Fortunately, you can reduce your risks by following these safe sex guidelines:

• Use latex condoms: Condoms don’t prevent all STDs, though they substantially reduce your risks. To use a condom correctly, wear it at all times during sexual contact and replace it with a new one if you notice any tears or sliding. Combining condoms with dental dams often offers the best protection. 
• Don’t have sex with any broken skin exposed: Open wounds make it easier for your body to absorb infections. Deep cuts can cause bacteria or viruses to enter your bloodstream, causing severe side effects. If you have open wounds around the genital or mouth area, refrain from sex until they heal. 
• Shower before and after sex: Showering can’t kill all bacteria, though it helps remove some. For example, some STDs commonly spread through fecal matter particles. With adequate washing, you can reduce this risk. 
• Don’t share towels: You can minimize bodily fluid contacts by using separate towels to clean up after any activities. Using your partner’s towel can infect you if they carry an STD.  
• Disclose any conditions with your partner: Being honest with your sexual partner is critical. Doing your part to reduce the spread also encourages your partner to tell you whether or not they have an STD. 
• Avoid having sex with partners you don’t trust: The more sexual partners you have, the more likely you’ll get an STD. Try minimizing your activities to only people you trust or people you know receive regular screenings. 

In general, you should always wear condoms correctly and receive regular testing. Early diagnoses can save your life and prevent more people from getting infected. 

We also recommend expanding your education on the subject. For example, learn about STDs that have no available cure yet to understand your risks better. 

How To Prevent the Spread of STDs With No Symptoms

STDs spread like wildfires. Imagine that you carry asymptomatic HPV and have sex with two partners. Next, each of these people has sex with three more. Those six engage in activities with dozens, continuing until hundreds of people get the STD indirectly from you. 

Most people who spread infections and viruses don’t do so intentionally. Rather, they don’t even realize they have an infectious disease and accidentally pass it on to others who may not show symptoms. You can only prevent such STD spikes by practicing the safe sex techniques above and regularly receiving tests. 

Attempting to self-diagnose yourself if you do notice symptoms is a poor idea. Sensations like genital burning and itching could come from dozens of conditions, ranging from mild to severe. You should immediately get tested to confirm your diagnosis and begin treatment if you notice any common discomfort symptoms. 

Even if you have zero issues, you should routinely get tested to learn about possible silent operators. The CDC recommends annual screenings for certain STDs, though it can’t hurt to check for them all. Anyone sexually active, pregnant, or recently seeing a new sexual partner should complete a 10-panel STD test for comprehensive results. 

Luckily, getting tested is easy. You can visit a local health care provider or order a rapid online test from Rapid STD Testing. 

Get Tested for Silent Operators Today With Rapid STD Testing! 

STDs with no symptoms are silent killers. Luckily, with adequate testing and safe sex, you can reduce your risks of contracting one and quickly recover if you do. At Rapid STD Testing, we aim to educate you on all important sexual health matters. 

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First identified in 1958, the monkeypox virus has many experts thinking back to the early COVID days, while others wonder: “Is monkeypox an STD?” If this is the first time you’ve heard the word “monkeypox,” keep reading to learn everything you need to know about this virus. This article will discuss what monkeypox is, how experts classify it, how it presents, and how it’s treated.  

Click here to learn about some common myths regarding STDs, or visit a Rapid STD Testing lab near you for confidential and secure same-day STD testing. You’ll get your results in one to two days.

What Is Monkeypox?

Scientists first discovered monkeypox in monkeys (hence the name) in Copenhagen, Denmark, in the late 1950s, but in late 1970, doctors identified the virus in a baby boy from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Outbreaks struck across West and Central Africa before spreading to the United States in 2003. 

Since then, the virus has appeared in Singapore, the United Kingdom, and other countries. Experts are currently tracking a worldwide monkeypox outbreak that has affected people in Europe, Africa, the Americas, the Eastern Mediterranean, and the Western Pacific.  

Monkeypox commonly presents with fever, muscle aches, headaches, swollen lymph nodes, back pain, lethargy, and rashes. The disease spreads from animals to humans and between humans through physical contact with infected people and their environments.

Is Monkeypox Deadly?

Most people who contract the monkeypox virus recover within weeks. However, this viral infection can cause health complications in certain cases, including confusion, skin infections, eye issues, pneumonia, and in extreme cases, death.

The people most vulnerable to complications from monkeypox include pregnant women, newborns, children, and people with deficient immune systems. 

The risk of exposure to monkeypox increases if you:

• Live or work with someone who has monkeypox
• Live or work with animals who may have it
• Work in healthcare treating someone who has it

If you think you may have monkeypox, contact your doctor. If you need to rule out STDs like herpes, syphilis, or gonorrhea, visit a Rapid STD Testing lab near you.

Is Monkeypox a Sexually Transmitted Infection?

The current outbreak of monkeypox has experts debating whether or not to call it a sexually transmitted disease (STD) or sexually transmitted infection (STI). To help you understand this debate, let’s discuss how people share this viral infection and what the experts are saying. 

The most common method of transmission is skin-to-skin contact, especially with open lesions on the skin of an infected person. Because the most current outbreak has disproportionately affected men who have sex with men, some people have started mislabeling monkeypox as an STD. 

But is monkeypox an STD? Most healthcare professionals agree that it is not. Monkeypox transmission does not occur by way of sexual body fluids like semen or vaginal discharge. In other words, two people don’t need to have sexual or intimate contact for one to catch the monkeypox virus.  

Why Does It Matter?

You may wonder why it matters if we classify the monkeypox virus as an STD. Calling a disease an STD comes with several common assumptions that don’t apply to monkeypox, which could complicate prevention and control efforts if the public is misinformed. 

For example, condoms are among the best options for preventing the spread of an STD like herpes, chlamydia, or HIV, but a condom won’t necessarily protect anyone from the monkeypox virus. Experts worry that mislabeling monkeypox as an STD will mislead people into believing they are safe in nonsexual situations and thus compromise the health community’s ability to control the spread.

Experts believe that the monkeypox outbreak will mirror the spread of diseases like meningitis or MRSA, not STDs. For example, monkeypox may spread primarily through daycare centers and schools.

Monkeypox Symptoms and Treatment

For most people, symptoms begin to appear within three weeks of exposure. Common monkeypox symptoms include:

• Fever and chills
• Muscle and headaches
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Respiratory droplets
• Nasal congestion
• Back pain
• Exhaustion
• Rashes and Lesions

Like any other infectious disease, monkeypox doesn’t affect everyone the same way. Some people only experience a rash, while others experience a variety of symptoms. 

Two of monkeypox’s most recognizable and common symptoms include swollen lymph nodes and rashes. 

Swollen Lymph Nodes

Swollen lymph nodes are a common sign of infection, whether bacterial or viral. If your lymph nodes are swollen, you may experience tenderness or pain in the area under your jaw. Your lymph nodes may swell to kidney bean size or larger. 

Rashes and Lesions

Most people who contract monkeypox get a rash at some point during the infection. Rashes appear all over the body, most commonly on the:

• Palms of the hands
• Soles of the feet
• Eyes, mouth, and face
• Throat
• Groin
• Genital region
• Anal region

Monkeypox lesions lie flat on the skin when they first show up. They then fill with fluid, crust or scab over and eventually fall off.  

If you’re experiencing a rash like this or any other monkeypox symptoms, talk to your doctor about getting tested. If you’re dealing with similar symptoms but test negative for monkeypox, you may have an STD. Visit a Rapid STD Testing lab for one of our 10 panel STD tests.

Monkeypox Treatment

Treating monkeypox focuses on symptom management and helping immunodeficient patients fight off infection. Because monkeypox is a pox virus, healthcare professionals may prescribe antiviral medications or recommend vaccines like the available FDA-approved smallpox and monkeypox vaccines.

Stop Monkeying Around and Get Tested 

Even though the answer to the question, “Is monkeypox an STD?” is no, you may still contract the virus through your sexual partners. If you find yourself struggling with any possible monkeypox symptoms like a rash but don’t know if you have it, visit your primary physician, or quickly rule out STDs with a rapid STD test by Rapid STD Testing. 

Although schools across the United States offer sex education, many young adults still struggle with STDs due to misinformation. The CDC estimates that almost 50% of new U.S. STD cases in 2018 affected young people between 15 and 24 years old. 

One of the most common questions about STDs that certainly impacts statistics like this is, “Can you get an STD if you’re both a virgin?” The convenient answer to this question is no—but although it may seem intuitive, “no” does not accurately represent the risks of getting a sexually transmitted disease. Keep reading to learn why that is.

The Short Answer: Can Two Virgins Get STDs?

The real short answer to the question of whether you can get an STD if you’re both virgins is yes—and a few reasons explain this. 

People define virginity in different ways. Most people use the word “virgin” to describe someone who has never had sexual intercourse, which means penile penetration of the vagina under heteronormative perceptions of sex. This definition complicates the question of virginity and STDs because a person may have contracted an infection through other types of sexual activity even without penetrative intercourse. 

Secondly, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) spread in a wide variety of ways, depending on the type of disease and the part of the body they impact. With dozens of STDs out there, sexual intercourse is not the only method of transmission. For example, some STDs transmit through oral sex. You can also spread yeast infections.

We don’t mean that these infections appear out of nowhere. If you and your partner are both STD-free, you have no risk of spreading a nonexistent disease. However, just because you’re both virgins doesn’t automatically mean you have had no previous sexual contact or are STD-free.

If you suspect you have an STD, get a rapid STD test from a Rapid STD Testing lab near you.

Can I Get an STD from a Toilet Seat?

A particularly widespread misconception claims people can catch STDs from others by sitting on a toilet seat. Fortunately, this is not a realistic concern because STD-causing bacteria and viruses cannot survive long on hard surfaces. Visit this link to learn more about the unlikelihood of catching STDs from toilet seats.

Can I Get an STD From a Virgin?

Answering the question, “Can I get an STD from a virgin?” depends on how you define virginity and the type of sexual contact. As we noted above, someone who defines themselves as a virgin may have had previous sexual contact even without traditional penis-to-vagina intercourse.

Let’s look at some of the ways you can contact an STD without having vaginal intercourse:

Kissing

Although kissing presents a low risk, you can contract an STD through lip-to-lip contact and sharing saliva. The first one that comes to mind for most people is herpes, which the infected person can pass on through kissing when they have a cold sore (herpes type 1). Kissing after oral sex may also pass herpes from one partner to another. 

Other STDs that may transmit through kissing include:

• Human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Syphilis
• Gonorrhea

Oral Sex

Sexual partners can pass on STDs through skin-to-skin contact or between the mouth and the genital area. A partner may transmit oral herpes to their partner’s genitals through oral sex. 

The transmission also works in the other direction, making it possible for people with genital infections like chlamydia to infect their partner’s mouth and throat. Other STDs that may transmit through oral sex include gonorrhea and syphilis.

Oral transmission presents a high risk of reinfecting the original host and worsening existing STDs. 

Shared Object Transmission

STDs don’t just transmit via body parts; sex toys and other objects (including fingers) can also pass these viruses, infections, and parasites from person to person. This happens most commonly if the sex toy was used by more than one partner without cleaning. 

STDs that can transmit through shared objects include:

• Herpes
• Syphilis
• Chlamydia
• Bacterial Vaginosis
• Hepatitis B and C
• Trichomoniasis
• HIV
• HPV

Skin-to-Skin Contact

The microorganisms that cause STDs like HPV, syphilis, and herpes live in sores, warts, and body fluids like ejaculate or vaginal discharge, so they can transmit through genital-to-genital contact. These diseases do not always present observable sores or bumps, but the infected person may still pass it on.

Anal Sex

The tissues in and around the anus are just as susceptible to infection as the vagina and penis. Anal sex may present an even greater risk of infection than vaginal sex because anal tissue tends to tear more easily. Any STD that can pass through vaginal sex and other sexual activities can transmit through anal intercourse, including herpes, syphilis, hepatitis, and the rest.

Are you curious about other ways you can contract STDs without sexual intercourse? Visit this article to learn whether it is possible to get an STD without having sex from the Rapid STD Testing team.

How To Protect Yourself

Although you are able to contract an STD through many types of sexual contact, you can take steps to stay protected. Remember the following to keep yourself safe from STDs during sexual contact:

• Communicate with your partner. You should never feel awkward asking a potential sex partner about their sexual history, including whether they have ever received an STD diagnosis. We also recommend asking your partner if they would go with you to get tested. If one of you tests positive for an STD, you can take the necessary steps to treat the disease and prevent transmission to the other person rather than dealing with the aftermath.   
• Be careful whom you kiss. If you notice a sore on someone’s mouth, avoid kissing them until the sore has healed completely. Don’t worry. If your partner has dealt with cold sores for a while, they probably won’t take it personally. 
• Use a condom or dental dam. Infection- and virus-causing microorganisms can’t infect a new host without direct contact, so condoms and other barrier methods offer the best protection against STDs. If you or your partner has a latex allergy, experiment with alternatives like polyurethane to find what works best for you. 
• Get an STD test. Many people have STDs but don’t realize it because they haven’t experienced or noticed any symptoms. Because you may not have any visual symptoms, the best way to protect your sexual and reproductive health is to get testing regularly, especially if you have multiple sexual partners. 

If you want to be 100% confident in your sexual health, try our comprehensive 10 Panel STD test.

Confidential STD Testing 

Now that you know that the answer to the question, “Can you get an STD if you’re both a virgin?” is yes, consider getting tested. 

At Rapid STD Testing, we offer STD tests across the U.S. and the District of Columbia. Visit a lab for same-day STD testing, and get fast results via a secure phone call. One of our care counselors will provide your results and explain available treatments. Call us at (866) 872-1888.