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]
STD
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 ... [Read More]
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP): What You and Your Loved Ones Need to Know
Have you been searching for ways to better protect yourself from HIV? Is someone you love HIV positive? It is possible now to live a long and healthy, relatively symptom-free life, as well as have deep and meaningful relationships with people who are HIV positive even if you’re not. Here is what you need to know about pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEP. What is Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis? Pre-exposure prophylaxis is a relatively new form of HIV prevention that has only been available in the ... [Read More]