Almost 20 million Americans contract a sexually transmitted disease (STD) each year. That statistic may or may not surprise you, but those who are afflicted with an STD – both men and women – could face dire consequences if they allow the embarrassment and stigma attached to these diseases to prevent them from seeking immediate medical help. The most common STDs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, chancroid, herpes, HIV/AIDS, and hepatitis B and C. Some of these diseases respond quickly and eff ... [Read More]
STD
Important Information About HIV
HIV is an acronym for human immunodeficiency virus. The virus spreads from an infected person through the exchange of certain bodily fluids and attacks the body’s immune system. This large-scale destruction of the body’s T-cells compromises the body’s natural immune response, rendering it vulnerable to bacterial or viral infections like HIV. Some population groups are more likely to get HIV, due to risky behaviors such as IV drug use and unprotected sex. While there is no cure for HIV, it can ... [Read More]
Talking to Your Teenager about STDs
If you are wondering when is the best time to talk about sex with your teen, the answer is “the sooner the better”. You definitely don’t want to be having this conversation while driving to the pharmacy to fill a prescription for a sexually transmitted disease (STD). The truth is that about 80% of teens are sexually active by the time they reach the age of 19 and approximately ½ of the 20 million reported cases of STDs annually are in people aged 15 to 24 years old. These reported cases include ... [Read More]
How Do I Know if I Have Been Sexually Assaulted?
Some of the terminology used in this article may be graphic in nature, however it serves the purpose of informing and educating the nature of sexual assault. Sexual assault is a terrible act that can leave victims confused, shamed, or afraid to come forward. People of all ages and both genders can be victims of sexual assault. Sadly, sexual assault is a common issue for many people. One out of every six women, one out of every seven children, and one out of every 33 men, and half of all ... [Read More]
Shocking – 50% Increase in Syphilis in 2016!
What comes to mind when you hear the term STD? Typically, you may think of HIV and AIDS or diseases that cause painful burning or discharge. Syphilis is probably not at the forefront of your mind when you think about sexually transmitted diseases in 2017. However, it really should be, as there has been an alarming increase in syphilis cases over the last several years – especially in men. What Is Syphilis? Syphilis is a highly contagious disease caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum and i ... [Read More]
