Archives for March 2023

The Differences Between Blood vs. Urine vs. Swab Test for STD

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Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) affect millions of teens and adults in the United States. A swab test for STDs can help you identify infections like herpes or syphilis after sex. Alternatively, blood and urine sample tests can help you identify illnesses like HIV, chlamydia, and gonorrhea.

Deciding between swab vs. blood vs. urine STD tests may require a consultation with your doctor. Here are a few questions to consider before requesting a test:

  • Which type of STD do you need to test?
  • Which lab tests does your chosen clinic offer?
  • How fast do you need results?
  • Which test provides the most accurate results?

Why Should I Get Tested for STDs

Routine STD testing is essential for your long-term health. If you are sexually active, you risk contracting an STD during skin-to-skin contact or contact with fluids during sex. Sexually active women who are pregnant may also pass on infections, like hepatitis, syphilis, or genital herpes, to their children.

A rapid STD test from a reputable sexual health clinic like Rapid STD Testing can help you identify and treat problems before they cause symptoms like:

  • Itching or burning skin
  • Warts, blisters, or rashes
  • Vaginal discharge
  • Blood in urine
  • Lethargy
  • Infertility
  • Unusual vaginal bleeding

You may think a swab test for STDs is unnecessary if you aren’t sexually active or your current sex partner uses protection. However, the risk of infection is always present. Even if you have never had sex, you can contract HPV or herpes through direct contact with the genitals, mouth, or hands.

Routine testing strengthens the trust between you and your sexual partners. If you are in a sexual relationship with one or more people, testing protects your health and theirs. Negative results can also reduce fears of infidelity and contribute to a happier sex life.

STD rates in the LGBTQ community remain high across the United States. It’s important to test for HIV and chlamydia if you are a man who has sex with men or a woman or transgender person who has sex with bisexual men.

Your risk factors for contracting STDs are higher if you use injectable drugs. Dirty needles that carry infected bodily fluids can expose you to various bacteria and viruses.

Asymptomatic STDs

You may not always experience symptoms from STDs, which makes routine testing even more important. Chlamydia and gonorrhea are notorious for lying dormant for several weeks before manifesting symptoms. HIV can also remain in your body for years before causing fatigue, night sweats, and swollen lymph nodes.

You risk transmitting your infection to more people if you continue to have unprotected sex before getting a screening. Consider getting a 10-panel STD test at a Rapid STD Testing clinic to screen for multiple infections. This way, you reduce the risk of undetected STDs in your system.

Testing for STDs

Most people wonder, “Is an STD test a urine test?” While urine tests are quick and easy, they aren’t always practical for screening every type of STD. Sometimes, hospital STD blood testing and swab tests may be necessary to identify infections in your body.

Here are some of the most common STDs and their corresponding test options:

  • HSV-1 and HSV-2: Swab and blood tests are your best options when screening for herpes. These tests check for antibodies and proteins that attack the virus as it spreads in the body.
  • HIV: Oral swabs and urine tests can identify antigens on the active virus that may be present in your body. Clinically administered blood tests provide more accurate readings if your at-home kit produces a false negative.
  • Syphilis: Can you test for syphilis in urine? No. However, a small blood sample will detect the syphilis treponema pallidum bacteria in your system. 
  • Hepatitis: Like HIV, an STD test for hepatitis will check for surface antigens and antibodies on the virus that indicate infection. Blood tests are effective options for detecting hepatitis B. 
  • Chlamydia and Gonorrhea: A swab test for STDs like these is the most common solution after anal or oral sex. A doctor can take a sample of fluid from your open sores and detect the infection. However, you should ask your doctor for a urine test to screen for vaginal infections.
  • HPV: If you are a woman, you can check for the human papillomavirus (HPV) during routine pap tests. Your doctor will take swab samples from your cervix and screen them in a lab.

Blood Test

How are STDs tested through blood? Blood tests require your physician to take a small sample from your vein using a sterilized needle. They will label your sample in a tube and send it to the lab for closer analysis.

Most tests return results within five to ten days. Alternatively, same-day STD testing from Rapid STD Testing clinics only takes a few minutes to complete and provides results within 48 hours.

You may wonder, “Can a blood test detect all STDs?” No. For instance, a bacterial chlamydia infection will not appear on a blood test, instead requiring a swab or urine test. 

In some cases, blood tests may not detect STDs until after several weeks of incubation. Consequently, you may receive inaccurate results or require multiple tests before it is safe to have sex again.

Urine Test

When choosing between blood vs. urine STD tests, you should know that blood tests primarily screen for viral strains. Urine testing is the primary method for screening bacterial infections. 

For example, gonorrhea testing requires your doctor to collect about 20-30mL of your urine to check for the presence of the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacterium.

Swab Test

During a genital swab test (i.e., urethral swab, vaginal swab, anal swab), your doctor will collect a small sample using a cotton applicator. You can administer a swab test for STDs on yourself with an at-home testing kit. 

However, most professionals discourage this method to reduce your risk of contaminating your test. Choosing the wrong approach could also compromise your STD test accuracy. 

The most accurate way to test for STDs is by seeking help from a licensed clinician who can advise whether a blood vs. urine STD test is right for your symptoms.

Dealing with Positive Results

Suppose your swab test for STDs comes back positive. You may experience anxiety, depression, shame, and regret. These responses are normal and will likely fade with time.

It’s important to take the proper steps to avoid transmitting your infection to others or compromising your own health.

First, follow your doctor’s advice. They may suggest that you refrain from having sex until antibiotic or antiviral medication settles into your system. Your doctor may also recommend long-term treatment plans for incurable STDs like HIV and herpes.

Next, you should tell everyone you have had sex with in the past several months about your diagnosis. This courtesy may seem embarrassing, but it is crucial to prevent the spread of your disease to others. If you are in a long-term monogamous relationship, encourage your partner to seek testing as soon as possible.

Continue taking prescribed medication and educating yourself about your condition. Many community advocates and support groups help people live fulfilling lives while managing their STDs. Don’t forget to inform your doctors about your health history during checkups, so they can accurately monitor your condition.

Managing Your Health with STD Testing

At Rapid STD Testing, we provide fast and painless STD tests to keep you informed about your sexual health. You can use our find a lab tool to search for a testing facility near you. 

Contact Rapid STD Testing to learn more about how to choose between blood vs. urine STD tests and to schedule your test.

Ultimate Guide to Safe Sex Practices Everybody Should Follow

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Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs or STIs) spread through bodily fluids and skin-to-skin contact. Instead of calling practices to reduce the risk of contracting STDs “safe sex,” a better name is “safer sex” because sexual intercourse is never completely risk-free.

Some of the most popular methods for safe sex include:

  • Using latex condoms during oral or penetrative sex
  • Using a female condom
  • Applying spermicide to the vagina
  • Having sex sober
  • Checking the body for sores, rashes, and blisters
  • Regularly testing for STDs at clinics like Rapid STD Testing

You may wonder which safe sex practices are right for you and your partner. Depending on how you like to have sex, it may be practical to use some or all of the above methods to protect yourself from infections. The information below will discuss your options and explain why safer sex and regular STD testing are vital to your health.

Practicing Safer Sex

The only way to practice 100% safe sex and eliminate the risk of STIs, unplanned pregnancies, and sex-related injuries is not to have intercourse at all. However, you can still enjoy some sexual practices like:

  • Sharing sexual fantasies in person or over the phone
  • Rubbing your penis or vagina against your partner while clothed (sometimes called “dry humping”)
  • Using sanitized sex toys with your partner

Oral Sex

Oral sex is the act of using your mouth on your partner’s penis, anus, or vagina. Oral sex alone will not cause an unplanned pregnancy, but STIs are still a risk. Common oral sex-related STIs include herpes, HIV, chlamydia, and syphilis.

You can use a barrier technique to prevent direct contact with the skin if you engage in oral sex with your partner. In a pinch, plastic wrap from a local grocery store can be better than no barrier. However, use this method cautiously because plastic wrap can tear easily, exposing you to genital skin and fluids.

Using a barrier like a dental dam is generally a safer option. These products are durable and come in different flavors, such as cherry or vanilla. 

Use conventional condoms when engaging in mouth-to-penis oral sex.

Vaginal Sex

The human papillomavirus (HPV) and genital warts spread through vaginal fluids. Using male condoms or internal condoms (fitted inside the vagina) can reduce your risk of infections.

If you or your partner is allergic to latex, try polyurethane condoms covered with water or oil-based lubricant.

Are you someone who can become pregnant from sex? If so, you may choose to use non-hormonal birth control, like spermicide, or hormonal birth control, like “the pill,” IUDs, “the shot,” spermicide, etc. These solutions may prevent an unplanned pregnancy but will not reduce your risk of contracting an STD.

Ask your healthcare provider if these safe sex practices are right for you.

Anal Sex

When having anal sex, always use a condom to prevent the spread of HIV, herpes, and gonorrhea. The anus cannot naturally create lubricant, so use a generous amount on your penis, fingers, or sex toys before engaging in anal sex. This method prevents injuries like anal fissures or friction burns that cause pain during and after sex. 

Protecting Yourself From STDs

You may wonder, “Why is safe sex important if neither my partner nor I have STDs?” Safe sex practices promote your health and encourage vigilance during shared intimacy. 

Despite feeling confident that you are STD-free, you can still get STDs if your partner does not regularly test for them or engages in intercourse with another person outside your knowledge. A rapid STD test from Rapid STD Testing can help you determine if you have an infection. Still, it’s best to abstain from sex until you are sure. 

According to the CDC, gonorrhea and HPV infections are rising in the United States, likely due to increased sexual activity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Gonorrhea can cause severe itching and burning of the skin. Moreover, research shows that HPV can cause cervical cancer, contributing to over 4,000 deaths in the U.S. every year. 

Without protection, you could contract these diseases and others from just one night of intercourse. Some other common sex-without-protection side effects include:

  • Surprise pregnancy
  • Genital warts around the anus, vagina, or penis
  • Warts on your mouth or in your throat
  • Bright red rashes on the skin
  • Dark patches or blisters on the skin
  • Vaginal or penis discharge
  • Unusual vaginal bleeding
  • Pain during urination

STIs often cause emotional distress, such as embarrassment, anxiety, or depression. Safe sex practices can help you prevent these problems. Here are a few ways you can reduce the risk of contracting an infection:

  • Use condoms, dental dams, and other barriers during sex
  • Reduce your number of sexual partners to avoid getting an STD from a one-night stand
  • Agree to be mutually monogamous with your partner
  • Commit to same-day STD testing at a Rapid STD Testing clinic if you suspect something is wrong

Safer Sex During STD Treatment

If you already have an STD, you can still have safe sex with your partner—within limitations. First, it’s important to receive a diagnosis from your physician and follow their medical advice. Depending on your infection, they may discourage sexual intercourse for several days or weeks until antibiotics or antiviral prescriptions reduce your risk of transmission.

Some STDs are curable, such as:

With the proper medication, you may be able to return to a normal sex life after just a few weeks. Other infections, such as hepatitis, HSV-2, and HIV, have no cure and require extra care to manage. 

You should inform anyone you have had sex with in the past few months about your diagnosis. This step can be intimidating, but letting others know can prevent unnecessary transmissions in your community.

If you have chlamydia, HIV, or syphilis, you may be able to use barrier protection, like a condom, during sex. This method helps to prevent fluid transmission. However, barriers are only practical if you don’t have any open lesions on the skin.

The same solution applies if you have herpes. However, you should abstain from sex if you are experiencing a blister or rash flare-up. This virus can spread through skin-to-skin contact, and a condom around the shaft of the penis may not be enough to protect you from exposure.

Never pressure your partner to have sex with you if you have a sexually transmitted disease. Never remove your protection during sex, especially without your partner’s knowledge.

Discussing Safer Sex

Discussing sexual boundaries and expectations with your partner is fundamental to a healthy sex life. Sex in movies, pornography, and literature rarely depict this responsibility, inadvertently influencing the public to ignore some essential safe sex practices.

Sit down with your partner in a safe environment and have an honest conversation about protection, the types of sexual intercourse you are willing to try, and ways you can monitor your sexual health. These discussions may seem uncomfortable initially, but strong communication can strengthen your relationship and sexual satisfaction.

Respect your sexual partner as an equal and be receptive to their concerns. Explain that you value their input and honesty.

These conversations don’t have to be a mood-killer. You can explain your concerns in a light-hearted and playful way. You could even purchase colorful sex toys, protective barriers, and gloves and incorporate them into your foreplay.

If your partner responds negatively to your concerns or feedback, it may be best to abstain from sex before you can reach mutual terms. Some people experience negative emotions discussing sex due to past trauma, anxiety, or self-esteem issues. 

Questions to Ask Your Partner

Here are a few questions you can ask your partner during conversations about safe sex practices:

  • Are you comfortable right now?
  • Have you tested for HIV recently? When was your last test?
  • Are you seeing anyone else right now?
  • Have you used protection before?
  • Are you comfortable with using this type of protection?
  • Would you like to have a safe word during sex?
  • Are you using birth control?
  • What do you think about using condoms?
  • What do you think about using dental dams?
  • Are you allergic to latex?
  • Is there anything I can do to make you more comfortable?
  • Do you mind if we wait until we test?

Asking questions in a friendly or romantic tone is a non-confrontational way to navigate the conversation. However, avoid making jokes or teasing your partner to avoid confusion and miscommunication.

Remember: Safe sex practices rely on all parties’ affirmative, ongoing, and enthusiastic consent.

Consult with Your Doctor

You don’t need to be an expert in safe sex to make informed decisions in the bedroom. Consult with your doctor or a clinician at Rapid STD Testing to learn tips and tricks that may help you reduce the risk of infection. They will provide helpful feedback and answer common questions like:

  • Can you get an STD from protected intercourse?
  • Can you get an STD from touching a used condom?
  • Does showering after sex prevent STDs?
  • How long do STD symptoms last?
  • How do you use XYZ sexual protection correctly?

Your doctor can also recommend preventive care, such as pre-exposure prophylaxis medication, if you are at risk of contracting HIV. 

A physician can prescribe treatments if you contract an STD or experience long-term complications from an infection, like infertility, pain during sex, or lowered immune responsiveness. They will discuss your options and provide a clear recovery plan so you can restore your sexual health.

STD Testing: A Crucial Tool to Practice Safer Sex and Protect Your Sexual Health

Making informed decisions about your sexual health is important. At Rapid STD Testing, we provide private, non-invasive STD testing in every U.S. state and the District of Columbia. Use our find a lab tool to find a clinic near you.

Explore how our comprehensive 10-panel STD test can help you identify various infections when you call. We will answer any questions you have about your test results and what to do next.

Contact Rapid STD Testing today to order a test or to learn more about safe sex practices.

What Is a Genital Ulcer and What Causes It?

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Genital ulcers are lesions or sores that can form on the shaft of the penis, the outer part of the female vagina, the anus, and the skin surrounding these areas. If you’ve noticed that you have one or more genital ulcers, you might be wondering where they came from and what you can do about it.

The most common cause of genital ulcers is an STD (sexually transmitted disease), specifically the herpes simplex virus. However, several causes could potentially be the culprit, including other STIs (sexually transmitted infections), immune conditions, viral infections, and fungal infections.

This article will tell you everything you need to know about genital ulcers but are afraid to ask.  

Understanding Genital Ulcers

In short, genital ulcers (called vulvar ulcers in females) are sores that develop on or around the genitalia. About 20 million people worldwide develop genital ulcers each year, so the condition is relatively common.

Ulcers result in breaks in the surface of the skin that damage the tissue and cause the appearance of sores and lesions. Though STDs are one cause of genital ulcers, other factors can also lead to a genital lesion.

Signs and Symptoms

Genital ulcers can manifest themselves in a variety of different ways. For some people, they’ll start out as a rash or a series of bumps, and they may cause pain or be completely painless. As the ulcers mature, you may notice the sores oozing pus or other fluid. This is a result of the skin surface breaking.

Other symptoms include swelling in the groin area, and a fever may develop. If the ulcers are painful, that pain will also manifest itself during sexual intercourse, and females may notice a foul-smelling discharge.

Risk Factors

Both men and women can get genital ulcers, and, as mentioned, the cause is not always sexually related.

Risk factors of genital ulcers include:

  • Having unprotected sex
  • Engaging in sex with multiple partners
  • Not being circumcised
  • Having a genetic predisposition to inflammatory diseases (not sexually transmitted)

In some instances, genital ulcers present themselves after recovering from certain illnesses. These ulcers are not sexually transmitted and will eventually go away on their own. The typical healing cycle is about three weeks, and they shouldn’t return once they disappear.  Referred to as an aphthous ulceration, these ulcers are typically in the oral region, but they may also show up on or around the genital area.

Acquiring Genital Ulcers

The most common cause of genital ulcers is an STD, and various sexually transmitted infections can lead to ulcers, including:

  • Chlamydia
  • Genital herpes
  • Syphilis
  • HIV
  • Chancroid (an infection that causes open sores)

Canker sores, also scientifically referred to as aphthous ulcers or aphthous stomatitis, can form in clusters and can merge into a larger ulcer. Canker sores, however, are not sexually transmitted.

Non-sexually acquired genital ulcers can also commonly occur in adolescents, especially females. The appearance of these ulcers, which can look like Herpes symptoms, can lead to concern (or outright panic) in parents, but it’s entirely possible that genital ulcers are not sexually transmitted.

The best way to determine if your teen has an STD that causes genital ulcers is to order a rapid STD test from Rapid STD Testing to rule out STDs.

In adult females, fungal infections like yeast infections can also lead to genital ulcers. In addition to this uncomfortable side effect, yeast infections can also cause itching, burning, and discharge that has an unpleasant odor.

STDs that Cause Genital Ulcers

The list of STDs above can cause the formation of genital ulcers. When an STI like herpes, syphilis, or chlamydia is treated promptly, it can potentially stave off the appearance of genital ulcers. Though not all HIV patients will develop genital lesions, these are a known and well-documented side effect.

Other Causes

Though genital ulcers are commonly associated with STDs, they can be caused by other conditions or events, including:

  • Inflammatory immune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, lupus, and psoriasis
  • Trauma from injuries, chemical burns, or excessive rubbing from undergarments
  • Epstein-Barr virus
  • The flu and other respiratory infections (especially in pubertal girls)
  • Varicella zoster (which leads to chickenpox and shingles)
  • Allergic reactions to skincare products
  • Drug reactions
  • Bacterial infections
  • Vulvar cancer (leads to vulvar ulcers)

Managing Genital Ulcers

The good news is that genital ulcers will eventually go away on their own. On average, you can expect genital ulcers to go away in about three weeks, though a six-week healing time may occur in some instances.

If your genital ulcers are painful, you can relieve the discomfort with the following solutions:

  • Ibuprofen
  • Topical numbing anesthetics
  • Petroleum jelly to provide a barrier
  • A cool compress

Because non-sexually transmitted genital ulcers are an immune response to infectious agents or an inflammatory condition, be sure to get plenty of rest and try to relax. Understandably, it can be stressful and uncomfortable to have genital ulcers, but the best thing to do is to let your body do its job of healing and try not to dwell on the admittedly slow healing process.

Diagnosis

If you notice genital ulcers, the best course of action is to seek advice from a medical professional. Your doctor can rule out any medical conditions that are causing the appearance of genital ulcers. We also recommend ruling out STDs with same-day STD testing from Rapid STD Testing.

If you do have an STD, you’ll be able to treat it quickly before spreading it to a partner. And, of course, if you do test positive, be sure to inform your past and present partner(s).

Treatment and Prevention

The treatment method for genital ulcers depends on how they were acquired. In the case of an STD/STI, your doctor may prescribe a round of antibiotics or an antiviral medication in pill or injectable form. For non-sexually related acute genital ulcers, a doctor may offer topical corticosteroids, oral corticosteroids, or injections to manage the pain and address any inflammation.

In some cases, genital ulcers can go away without any medical intervention, but avoiding treatment could lead to an infection.

In the case of genital ulcers that are sexually transmitted, the only surefire way to prevent them is to abstain from having sex. Practicing safe sex can also dramatically reduce your risk of having genital ulcers. Condoms and dental dams are effective risk mitigators, but there is still a chance of spreading genital ulcers if the affected area is not covered.

To rule out a sexually transmitted disease so that you can enjoy safe sex with your partner, order a 10 panel STD test. If you do test positive for an STD, you’ll be informed of the condition and able to address it with a proper treatment solution.

For non-sexually transmitted genital ulcers, you can potentially prevent them by avoiding tight-fitting clothing and keeping the genital area clean. This is especially important if you’ve been susceptible to recurrent ulcers.

If you’re sexually active and you know your partner is clean, you can still contract genital ulcers. In addition to the above recommendations, urinating after sex can help flush your genital area of any bacteria or viruses that lead to infections.

Take Action Before Getting Some Action              

Whether you are currently dealing with a genital ulcer, you’ve observed a genital ulcer on your partner, or you’re concerned about the discomfort of having a genital ulcer in the future, you can find out today if you have an STD.

Rapid STD Testing has locations in all 50 states, and you can get results the same day you order a test. You can even request a test over the phone or online. Click here to get started.

 

Can You Get an STD From Masturbating?

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Can you get an STD from masturbating? Young people or individuals exploring different forms of sexual contact for the first time may feel concerned about the risk of STIs, especially given the wealth of misinformation online. It’s vital that sexually active individuals engage in safe sex practices, including during self-pleasure, but sexual health experts generally consider masturbation the safest sexual activity.

That said, if you’re already infected with an STI, it’s possible to transmit from one part of the body to another, such as from the genitals to the mouth. Likewise, engaging in mutual masturbation could, theoretically, present the risk of exposure.

Read on to learn more about masturbation and how to engage in sexual activities safely. 

Is Masturbation Safe?

Depending on the sexual education you’ve received, you may be wondering: Is masturbation safe? Can masturbation cause a yeast infection or other reproductive health complications?  

Statistically, the chances of masturbation causing an infection are very low, and there’s no clinical evidence to suggest that frequent masturbation affects fertility.

There’s a wealth of long-established evidence that reveals how masturbation is good for your health and can produce the following benefits:

  • Masturbating can help you figure out what you enjoy sexually, making establishing likes and dislikes with a sexual partner much easier.
  • For some, masturbation reduces stress and even improves sleep.
  • Orgasms release endorphins in the brain, which can produce a natural pain-relieving effect.

Although it’s possible to contract an STD from sex toys or mutual masturbation, the risk of infection is low.

Myths

Many people have heard the old myth that you can contract an STD from a public toilet seat. Sadly, this and other equally untrue narratives about STDs continue to circulate, leading to unnecessary confusion.

Whether out of genuine ignorance or an attempt to deter masturbation in young people, some individuals claim that masturbation can have devastating effects, ranging from erectile dysfunction and infertility to blindness. Some even claim that frequent masturbation indicates sexual deviancy or abnormal behavior.

However, masturbation cannot cause blindness or sexual health problems like erectile dysfunction and infertility. Likewise, it’s been proven time and time again that masturbation is perfectly normal, even for teens and young people who are learning about their bodies and sexual feelings.

Masturbation is one of, if not the single safest sexual activity you can perform. However, skin-to-skin contact with sex partners or used sex toys could expose you to STDs. If you’re concerned about your sexual health for any reason, consider Rapid STD Testing’s 10-panel STD test for quick and comprehensive results.

Acquiring STDs Without Having Sex

Can you get an STD from masturbating? Generally, the answer is no. Self-pleasure is usually a safe sexual activity that poses minimal risk of STD contraction. However, masturbating with a sexual partner or partners, using unclean sex toys, and having other forms of non-penetrative sex can expose you to infection.

So, can you get an STD from sex toys? While a sex toy itself can’t “spread” STDs, if you use one after someone with an STD does, it’s possible for you to contract that STD. 

In some instances, even if you’ve cleaned the sex toy prior to use, some porous materials can still trap bacteria and expose you to infection. That’s why it’s generally safest to use sex toys made of nonporous materials, such as stainless steel or medical-grade silicone.

Mutual masturbation can result in non-sexually transmitted infections like bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections, although the risk is low. A vaginal infection like bacterial vaginosis (BV) is more likely to arise due to an imbalance of vaginal bacteria. 

Likewise, while poor hygiene following masturbation can result in urinary tract infections, you cannot contract this infection like an STD.

Site-specific STDs

But what about solo masturbation? If you’re not making skin-to-skin contact with another person, is it possible to contract STDs? 

An important thing to remember about STDs is that they don’t spread exclusively through direct contact with the genitals. Some STDs can infect other body parts, which means you can transmit an infection from one part of your body to another.

Site-specific STDs include the following:

  • Herpes simplex virus
  • Gonorrhea
  • Chlamydia 
  • Pubic lice
  • Trichomoniasis
  • Molluscum contagiosum

Other Ways To Get STDs

Most STDs spread through bodily fluids, such as semen, vaginal fluid, blood, or saliva. Even if you don’t engage in penetrative sex, other forms of physical contact can expose you to STDs. 

It’s important to remember that mutual masturbation with a sexual partner or partners that involves masturbating each other or an exchange of bodily fluids can result in the contraction of an STD. Likewise, performing oral sex can also expose you to infection.

Following mutual masturbation or non-penetrative sex, always be on the lookout for the following common symptoms:

  • Sores or blisters 
  • Burning sensation when urinating or defecating
  • Foul-smelling or discolored vaginal discharge
  • Swollen and sore throat

To protect yourself and your sexual partners from STDs, it’s important to get regularly tested. Rapid STD Testing offers same-day STD testing to make this process quick and convenient. 

Masturbating With STDs

Now that we’ve answered the question, “Can you get an STD from masturbating?” you may be curious whether you can masturbate once infected. For instance, can you masturbate if you have chlamydia or some other sexually transmitted disease?

The good news is that it’s completely safe to masturbate if you’re undergoing treatment for STDs. If you have an STD, you can prevent transmission to other body parts by washing your hands before and after masturbating, using lubricant instead of spit, and properly cleaning your sex toys before and after use.

When it comes to STDs like syphilis or herpes that can cause painful sores, it may be best to hold off on masturbating until the sores have healed to avoid irritating the infected area. And while it’s safe to masturbate during STD treatment, your doctor may urge you to avoid sexual contact with others until you’ve completed your antibiotics.

It’s also completely safe to masturbate if you’re experiencing a non-sexually transmitted infection like a UTI, a yeast infection, or BV. Just be aware that some forms of self-pleasure, like using an insertive sex toy, may cause irritation. 

In the future, remember that the best treatment for STDs is prevention. Practicing safe sex, being conscious of lubricant ingredients and sex toy materials, and getting regular STD testing can help protect your sexual health. 

Ordering a rapid STD test from Rapid STD Testing can help you stay up to date with your sexual health status and improve your safe sex practices.

Safer Sexual Pleasure

Masturbation and sex are normal, healthy parts of daily life. To protect yourself and your sexual partners from STDs, it’s important to practice safe sex and keep up with personal hygiene. 

Masturbating Safely

It’s not always possible to know you have an STD. To prevent the spread of STDs through skin-to-skin contact, practice the following risk reduction habits during mutual masturbation:

  • You and your partner or partners should wash your hands before and after masturbating.
  • Trim long nails to prevent genital abrasions.
  • For extra protection, consider using gloves when masturbating a partner, switching to a new pair when touching yourself or another partner.
  • Avoid touching your eyes during masturbation.

Practicing Safe Sex

“Safe sex” describes practices meant to protect the sexual health of you and your sexual partners by preventing the spread of STDs. You can practice safe sex in numerous ways, including but not limited to the following:

  • Always use condoms for penetrative sex. Condoms are not 100% effective, as they can tear and don’t protect you from STDs that spread through skin-to-skin contact, but they’re still a highly effective method of STD prevention.
  • Limit the number of sexual partners. Know that this doesn’t necessarily mean you have to limit your sexual partners to one person. Instead, it means limiting your sexual relationships to people you trust and can have honest conversations with about sexual histories. 
  • Get vaccinated against STDs like HPV. Getting the HPV vaccination can reduce your risk of experiencing health complications associated with the virus later on.
  • Get tested for STDs regularly. Knowing your status can help protect you and your sexual partners against the spread of STDs.

Take Control of Your Sexual Health With Rapid STD Testing

So, can you get an STD from masturbating? It’s highly unlikely. However, it’s still important to prioritize safety in all sexual encounters. This means taking preventative measures to reduce your risk of contracting STDs, being open with your sexual partners about your status, and receiving regular STD testing.

Take control of your sexual health today. Contact Rapid STD Testing at (866) 872-1888, or use our lab finder tool to locate a clinic near you.

Why Do I Keep Getting Yeast Infections Every Month?

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Yeast infections are annoying and painful, and if you’re wondering, “why do I keep getting yeast infections every month?” you are certainly not alone. It’s estimated that 75% of women, at one point or another in their lives, will get a yeast infection.

There are several reasons women get yeast infections, and about 8% of women have four or more each year, which doctors call chronic yeast infections. At Rapid STD Testing, we can help distinguish between symptoms of a yeast infection and an STI, plus provide tips to help you lower your risk of recurring yeast infections and how to stop a yeast infection from coming back.

All About Yeast Infection

Yes, they’re maddening, and some people may be more susceptible than others to yeast infections. Fortunately, in most instances, they are curable. If you think you’re suffering from one, same-day std testing at Rapid STD Testing can let you know what’s going on.

What is Yeast Infection?

A yeast infection is a fungal infection. It may sound scary, but our bodies naturally contain several types of fungi.

A type of fungus called candida, which lives in your digestive tract and mouth, is responsible for yeast infections. A yeast infection occurs when the candida starts to grow rapidly, causing itching, burning, and redness in the outer parts of your vagina.

Men can develop similar issues, known as jock itch and penile balanitis (an inflammation). Jock itch is an ugly, red rash that can appear on a man’s penis, thighs, and buttocks. Penile balanitis is a redness and swelling on the head of a penis.

Curing men’s yeast infections is possible and starts with a rapid STD test to rule out STIs.

For women, you may hear other terms for a vaginal yeast infection, like vaginal candidiasis and vulvovaginal candidiasis. They’re all a type of infection called vaginitis, a problem that occurs when the vagina is painful, swollen, and possibly infected.

Most cases of vaginitis have similar symptoms, and one of the most common types is a vaginal yeast infection.

Symptoms

Some of the symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection include:

  • Soreness
  • Redness
  • Swelling around your vagina
  • Vaginal itching
  • Pain during sex
  • A burning sensation while urinating or having sex
  • A rash
  • Clumpy, watery, or yellow-white vaginal discharge

Yeast infections are more common conditions in women than men. Reasons you may develop a yeast infection include:

  • Using spermicidal creams and jellies
  • Wearing sweaty clothing for too long
  • Using a vaginal deodorant or scented tampon
  • Wearing a wet bathing suit for too long

Recurrent Yeast Infection

Are you dealing with your second yeast infection in a month and wondering, “why do I keep getting yeast infections every month?” You could be suffering from chronic yeast infections. If home remedies (which we’ll discuss later) aren’t working, the problem could be related to lifestyle changes or certain behaviors.

Possible Causes of Recurrent Yeast Infections

What causes constant recurring yeast infections? Let’s explore the most common reasons:

  • Panty liners: Panty liners can prevent airflow and trap moisture, creating conditions that cause the growth of yeast. Yeast can also build up on panty liners, aggravating an existing infection.
  • Blood sugar levels: If you have diabetes, you’re more susceptible to chronic yeast infections. It’s important to keep a natural balance in your blood sugar, and even if you don’t have diabetes, eating too many carbohydrates can cause yeast to grow.
  • Sexual activity: Sexual partners can transmit candida during sexual intercourse. If your infection goes away, your partner can re-infect you. Spermicides are another cause of recurring yeast infections.
  • Lubricants: The glycerin in many lubricants triggers yeast infections, so look for a glycerin-free lubricant.
  • DNA: While a healthy immune system prevents infections, if you have two genetic mutations, you could be prone to chronic problems.
  • Pregnancy: Hormonal changes occur when a woman is pregnant, increasing the sugar in vaginal secretions, which feed the fungus.
  • Menopause: If you’re approaching menopause, your hormones go through changes. These shifts can upset the balance of your vaginal bacteria, causing the fungus to grow.
  • Immune system issues: You might be susceptible to chronic yeast infections if you’re taking any prescription or over-the-counter medication that suppresses your immune system.

If you’re not sure if you’re suffering from a UTI or yeast infection, it’s a good idea to get tested at a facility like Rapid STD Testing.

Yeast Infection and Menstruation

Your period is gone for the month, and all is good. If you suddenly feel burning and itching in your vagina, you might wonder, “What does it mean if my yeast infection keeps coming back?” and” Why do I have a yeast infection again?”

The hormonal fluctuations that happen during your period can unsettle your body’s natural balance of estrogen and progesterone. When estrogen levels spike, the fungus that causes yeast infections grows.

Some women get yeast infections after their period every month, but how many yeast infections are too many? If you get a yeast infection every month, talk to your gynecologist about the best course of action.

Treatment and Prevention

While yeast infections are annoying and inconvenient, they are treatable and preventable. For infrequent yeast infections, over-the-counter antifungal creams can clear up the infection. If you’re wondering, “why do I keep getting yeast infections every month?” you should visit your doctor for a lab test, diagnosis, and treatment. 

How do you stop recurring yeast infections? To manage and reduce the risk, consider:

  • Wearing cotton underwear and changing it often.
  • Using gentle detergents that don’t have colors or fragrances. Wash your underwear in hot water and use bleach.
  • Not sitting in or putting back on a wet bathing suit. Make sure to let bathing suits fully dry before storing them.
  • Avoiding sex with someone who has a yeast infection. Even if your partner doesn’t have any symptoms, they can still transmit the infection to you.
  • Wiping properly by wiping from front to back when you use the restroom. This helps to prevent unwanted microorganisms from the anus from entering your urinary tract or vagina.
  • Eating foods like yogurt that have natural probiotics, which can help to prevent yeast infections.
  • Visiting your doctor for prescription antifungal or oral medication.

Home Remedies for Yeast Infections

You may consider some home remedies to alleviate the pain and discomfort of vaginal yeast infections. Use these methods with caution, and consult with your doctor or gynecologist if your symptoms persist.

Some home remedies include:

  • Probiotic supplements: These pills can restore the good bacteria in your body to balance out the fungus. You can also consider probiotic suppositories. With oral supplements, they could day a few days to weeks to fully work. Probiotic vaginal suppositories work faster.
  • Apple cider vinegar: Adding apple cider vinegar to your bath is a good option to get rid of a yeast infection. Add half a cup of ACV to your bath water and soak in it for about 20 minutes.
  • Vitamins: Vitamin C is a good way to boost your immune system. Vitamin E can help to reduce the inflammation that infections cause.

We Know Yeast Infections Aren’t Fun—But There Is Help!

If you’re still wondering, “why do I keep getting yeast infections every month?” some simple lifestyle changes and home remedies can help to prevent and clear up those pesky yeast infections. If symptoms persist, see your doctor or gynecologist.

If you’re not sure if your symptoms are due to a yeast infection or something else, schedule a 10-panel STD test at a Rapid STD Testing clinic near you. You’ll get fast, confidential, and accurate results so that you know your health status. 

Does Circumcision Prevent HIV in Men?

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Medical circumcision remains a highly contentious subject in the U.S. Over the last 20 years, the number of American infant males being circumcised at birth has been steadily declining.

Many new parents and even physicians have taken a stance against circumcision in recent years. For some medical professionals, this trend is alarming as researchers uncover more evidence in favor of using circumcision for the prevention of STDs.

It’s a controversial issue: Does circumcision prevent HIV in men? To stay safe, you need to know the facts. This article will discuss the risks and potential health benefits of circumcision and whether or not it’s effective in preventing STDs.

What You Need to Know About Circumcision

Circumcision is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the foreskin, or the skin covering the head of the penis. In most cases, doctors perform the procedure within the first 48 hours after a male baby is born, though some adults do opt to undergo the surgery as well.

Benefits of Circumcision

Are there any benefits to circumcision? Despite the increasing concern about the potentially negative effects of circumcision, there’s a wealth of evidence that suggests the procedure could provide several health benefits, including but not limited to the following:

  • Improved personal hygiene: Circumcised males may have an easier time washing their penis.
  • Decreased risk of infection: While circumcision doesn’t wholly prevent any form of infection, it can reduce the risk of urinary tract infections and STDs. 
  • Reduced risk of penile cancer: Statistically, penile cancer is uncommon, but it’s less likely to develop in circumcised men. Likewise, female partners of circumcised men are less likely to develop cervical cancer.

What does circumcision prevent? Circumcised men are at a lower risk of infections due to poor hygiene and STDs. Still, while circumcision can reduce the risk of STDs, it can’t entirely prevent them. Whether you’re circumcised or not, if you think you have an STD, same-day STD testing with Rapid STD Testing can provide quick, accurate results.

Associated Risks

As with any surgery, there are certain risks associated with circumcision. These rare risks include the following:

  • Bleeding following the procedure
  • Infection
  • More or less skin removed than intended
  • Scar tissue formation

Generally, doctors can easily treat any infections that occur following circumcision. Likewise, while some have raised concerns about reduced penile sensitivity and sexual dysfunction later in life, no studies have proven these claims to be true.

HIV Prevention and Circumcision

Given the unfortunate number of STD myths and the rampant misinformation floating around on the internet, it’s important to seek out accurate information regarding sexual health and safety. 

Does circumcision prevent HIV? Not exactly, though it may decrease your risk of contracting HIV. 

Between 2005 and 2007, researchers conducted a randomized trial in Africa to determine if there was any correlation between circumcision and decreased rates of HIV. The studies showed that circumcision status played a role in the transmission rates of HIV. 

According to these trials, the risk of vaginal-to-penile HIV transmission may decrease by 51% to 60% for an HIV-negative man engaging in sexual intercourse with an HIV-positive female partner.

In 2014, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a document regarding voluntary circumcision for HIV prevention. Following a period of systematic review and meta-analysis, the CDC advised health care providers to inform uncircumcised male patients that circumcision could reduce the risk of contracting HIV and other STDs during heterosexual intercourse. 

It’s important to note that most of the research surrounding this subject is limited to vaginal-penile transmission. Data from observation research studies reveals that circumcision may decrease the risk of HIV transmission for gay and bisexual males who primarily fulfill the insertive role in anal sex.

However, the evidence is extremely limited and inconclusive, as clinical trials haven’t included a large enough pool of gay and bisexual male participants. Likewise, no evidence yet exists to suggest that circumcision reduces the risk of HIV for males who fulfill the receiving role in anal sex.

The key detail in all of the existing data is that while circumcision can reduce the risk of HIV contraction, it cannot completely prevent it.

What Are the Chances of Getting HIV for Uncircumcised Men?

The exact transmission risk for uncircumcised men is unclear, but research suggests that HIV transmission may be higher among uncircumcised males due to bacterial growth under the foreskin. Certain bacteria may inhibit the skin’s ability to defend against infection, which may increase uncircumcised men’s risk of contracting HIV.

This is yet another reminder that getting routine STD testing is an essential component of protecting yourself against STDs. A rapid STD test from Rapid STD Testing can give you the answers you’re looking for and help you take control of your sexual health.

What Other STDs Does Circumcision Prevent?

A 2013 review by the National Library of Medicine concluded that male circumcision may reduce the risk of STD contraction in circumcised men. In particular, the review examined whether circumcision could serve as a preventative measure against genital herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV), and genital ulcer disease. 

Researchers found that circumcision could reduce the risk of transmission during vaginal-penile intercourse, but the results remain unclear for men who have sex with men. Some research suggests that male circumcision can reduce the chances of female partners contracting HPV, trichomoniasis, and bacterial vaginosis, but the data available is limited. 

If you’re curious about your sexual health status and want to learn more, contact your healthcare provider, or check out Rapid STD Testing’s 10-panel STD test to get comprehensive results.

Weighing the Risks

Circumcision remains a highly debated topic among parents, patients, and some physicians. Some opponents of the procedure express concern about the conclusiveness of existing clinical research regarding circumcision and the prevention of HIV, while others worry about the implications of recommending circumcision as a first line of defense against STDs. 

Specifically, certain groups worry that increased emphasis on circumcision and STD prevention will lead to decreased contraception usage, which could lead to increased unwanted pregnancies. 

However, a systematic review by the National Library of Medicine in 2018 stated that male circumcision doesn’t appear to influence condom usage. In fact, the review also states that the benefits of STD reduction associated with circumcision are “well established,” and condom usage among participants in the study didn’t significantly change in the 24 months following the initial research.

While it’s true that circumcision is not entirely preventative (it can reduce but not stop the spread of STDs), the procedure is completely voluntary. Physicians cannot require circumcision for prevention of HIV in adult or infant males. They can only inform parents and patients about the potential health benefits associated with circumcision. 

However, adult males considering the procedure should assess the potential risks before going through with it. The risks associated with the procedure may increase for older males, which may deter some from pursuing circumcision, given it doesn’t entirely prevent HIV.

Ultimately, the decision lies between you and your doctor. It’s best to consult with your healthcare provider before making any decisions regarding circumcision as an adult man or as a parent. Your physician can weigh the benefits and the risks according to your health needs and body.

Other Ways to Prevent STDs

If you find yourself unsatisfied with the answer to the question, “Does circumcision prevent HIV?” know that you have several more effective STD prevention options that don’t involve adult male circumcision. 

HIV spreads through bodily fluids like blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk. To decrease your risk of contracting HIV, use condoms during sex. If you administer injections to yourself, use clean needles and materials. It’s critical that you never share your needles or injection materials with others.

Other ways to protect yourself from HIV include the following:

  • Getting regularly tested for HIV
  • Limiting the number of your sexual partners or practicing monogamy
  • Talking to your doctor about pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), which is an HIV prevention medicine for those who face a higher risk of contracting HIV

You can employ similar methods of prevention to reduce your risk of contracting other STDs. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to get vaccinated against STDs like HPV and hepatitis B.

Stay Informed with Rapid STD Testing

Knowing the answer to the question, “Does circumcision prevent HIV?” can help you make more informed decisions about your sexual health. While circumcision can reduce the risk of HIV, the best way to prevent HIV or any STD is to practice safe sex and get tested regularly. If you’d like to know your STD status, contact Rapid STD Testing today at (866) 872-1888, or use our handy location tool to find a testing center near you.