How much you know about STDs?

Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) is a name that everyone must have heard, but very few of them know about it. People think that they are clear from HIV & STD because they don't show any symptoms, but it's not true. Even it does not show any visible physical symptom for years.

STD

STD screening is necessary for everyone once in a life span.

And those who are at high risk should have tests on a regular basis. It is also surveyed that many doctors are uninformed about STD and hence they don't recommend for tests of it. This is wrong. Lets' discuss...

Myths about STD Tests?

  • Virgins can't have STDs: False

If your partner is virgin they can have a sexually transmissible disease. Skin to skin contact spreads a number of STDs. Even family members can pass this disease. Oral sex also plays a major part in STDs.

  • Would it make you think your spouse might be cheating

Married people and those who are committed avoid taking tests as they are in a mutually monogamous relationship. It is true, but only when the partners are screened before being together. As said earlier, STDs don't show any symptoms for years and when they show up in a relationship it causes problems. Women are discovering about Chlamydia only when they have trouble getting pregnant.

  • It's never too late

It's not like whenever an infected person has sex, STDs are transmitted. Those who are sexually active don't bother to have STD tests, even if they are having unprotected intimacy. Reason being, they already assume they are infected and there's no good in having stress by confirming it. Which is wrong for anyone related to them.

  • Would it lessen respect for self and your partner: NO

Other than anything, it is most important to be open, honest and accurate to your partner. Your partner must know about you and both of you should protect each other. This thing can only be possible when you have STD testing.

  • Which STD Tests to opt for? Let's Talk over

Are you sexually active?

The Federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says every sexually active adult and pregnant women should have HIV tests. Chlamydia and gonorrhea can be easily examined now by urine tests. Resulting STD testing easier.

Are you under 24?

According to 2006 CDC surveillance report, 50% of the new STD cases every year come from the youth of aging under 24. Chlamydia is a crucial test for young women.

Are you a man who has sex only with women?

Doctors usually don't test heterosexual men for STDs other than HIV. Reason being, women gets health issues form HPV and Chlamydia.

Are you a man who has sex with men?

Tests like HIV and syphilis is important for this group because they might have both infections. This group needs screening more than once a year.

Are you a woman of any sexual preference?

Other than HIV, all women should take an annual test for Pap smears to know there's everything fine in the cells of cervix, probably caused by HPV.

I advise you, at the last, to take care of you own life and your loved ones. Take proper tests and stay safe and healthy.