When it comes to your sexual health, one of the most important steps you can take is getting tested for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Knowing when to get tested is crucial, as timing can affect the accuracy of the results and, ultimately, your peace of mind. Here’s a guide to help you understand when you…
Let’s dive into a topic that’s as awkward as it is important: STD testing. If you’ve ever felt your heart race at the mere thought of getting tested, trust me, you’re in good company. I’ve been there, done that, and even considered buying the “I Survived an STD Test” t-shirt (spoiler: they don’t actually make…
Medical professionals always recommend taking steps to reduce your risk of getting an STD. For instance, using protection every time you take part in sexual activity, including oral sex, can reduce the risk. Another step you may be able to take toward prevention is to get a vaccine. We currently have vaccines for specific STDs…
The entire United States currently has high and rising rates of STDs, but Chicago’s rates have been significantly higher than that. This means that sexual activity in Chicago comes with an increased risk of getting an STD. While it makes sense to try to prevent the spread of STDs and to get tested no matter…
If you’re in the dating pool in the Dallas, TX area, it might be helpful for you to know the local rates of STDs. Of course, it’s always a good idea to be careful about the spread of STDs, yet knowing specific info about the area can help you better understand your risk. Dallas County…
Science made history in 2007 when researchers were able to cure an infection of the HIV virus, which can lead to AIDS. They’ve tried to do it again since then but have failed until now. The New York Times reported on March 4, 2019 that scientists have finally seemed to have succeeded in duplicating their initial success,…
Today’s post focuses on preventing HIV transmission in discordant couples, or “serodiscordant couples,” in which one member of the couple is HIV-positive and the other is not. The first and perhaps simplest way to reduce rates of transmission in discordant couples is the use of barrier methods, such as condoms. However, condoms can–and sometimes do–break….
Wow. You just met Mr. Wonderful and he informs me that you has genital herpes. What should you do? This is quite a common question in sexual health clinics. Let’s start with checking your herpes status. Remember, 45 million Americans have genital herpes and its estimated that only 10 – 20% of those folks know…
First off, good for you for taking charge of your sexual health…it’s always best to ask for information, rather than make assumptions the might result in potentially serious health risks. But don’t fear a good-night kiss. Rest assured, catching a sexually transmitted infection through kissing is extremely unlikely…with a few exceptions. Avoid kissing anyone with…
Many people assume that HIV and AIDS are interchangeable terms. While it is true that HIV can eventually lead into AIDS, it is not always true that if you contract HIV you will also develop AIDS. HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, is an infection that attacks the body’s immune system. If left untreated, HIV can…