Several health related topics are too awkward for many people in several cultures to discuss, even with their doctor. Sexually transmitted diseases, which are more commonly called STDs, are one of those awkward ailments, but considering the long-term health effects of several, even the possibility of death, this embarrassment cannot be allowed to prevent the dissemination of knowledge and appropriate treatment. Here are five facts about STDs that you need to know.
- You Have To Ask: Many women assume that their yearly Pap smear includes STD testing, but this belief is mistaken, and a man’s physical does not include the service either. The only way they will know to perform a test is if you tell them to do so.
- STD Testing At Home: Although STD testing at home can be useful, they are not a perfect option. The primary issue is that the majority of those that take them are not trained in specimen collection. The result is a higher rate of false positives. If one of these tests delivers a positive answer, make an appointment with any of the family care providers who provide STD tests, or stop by any STD testing clinics or mobile health clinics. That way you have a certain answer and, if necessary, you begin planning any necessary medical care.
- Not Just Sex: A number of STDs can be transmitted through any bodily fluids and do not require sex for someone to become infected. It is best to be careful, as a result, but do not go overboard. After all, that old idea that you can get herpes from a toilet seat is a myth, and there are many more.
- Symptoms: Many individuals that are diagnosed with an STD demonstrate no symptoms. This is common with chlamydia and gonorrhea, among others. It has even been known to occur with those who are diagnosed with Human Immunodeficiency Virus, more commonly known as HIV.
- Treatment: Treatment of STDs can often be a simple matter, limited to a few visits to a family health clinic for antibiotics. This list of curable STDs includes gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and other infections. Other sexually transmitted diseases are not curable, only manageable through medical treatment. These include herpes, HIV, and hepatitis.
The bottom line is that anyone who is sexually active should be regularly tested, whether it embarrasses you or not. If everyone gets tested, fewer people get sick, and that is worth some awkward moments.