STDs on the Rise: Know your risks and how you can counter against preventable health issues. What’s behind the rise and how can one counter such trends?
Sexually transmitted diseases, also known as STDs, are an unfortunate risk for anyone who engages in sexual activity. While information about herpes, syphilis, and other STDs continues to be spread, the CDC has recently found that rates of those being diagnosed are only increasing. In fact, within the last four years, syphilis cases have doubled and chlamydia is at an all-time high.
The Risk of Getting an STD
If you’re sexually active and not using protection, then you are putting yourself at the greatest risk of getting an STD. However, even with protection, you’re not guaranteed to avoid this risk completely. Some additional tips to help keep you safe include:
– If you have multiple partners regularly, STD testing should be done frequently
– Talk to your doctor about vaccinating for hepatitis B and HPV
– Reduce the number of sexual partners you have
– Take a sex education class to learn how to properly put on and use a condom
Why Are Rates Increasing?
There are many reasons why the rates of STDs have been increasing, although many feel it begins with inadequate sex education in schools. This first introduction into the world of sex simply isn’t teaching kids enough nor is it exposing them to the true risks of unprotected sex. However, the increased rates can also be blamed on lack of health insurance and many people not wanting to use their insurance to cover the expense of a visit for an STD check.
Preventing an STD
There are a few different things you can do to avoid getting an STD completely. These prevention methods include:
– Staying in a monogamous relationship with someone who is STD-free
– Only sleeping with partners who have STD testing done before sexual contact
– Becoming celibate
What You Need to Know About Testing
STD testing might put you off because it does require showing so much of yourself to a doctor. However, it’s important to know that doctors truly do see these things every single day. They aren’t embarrassed doing an examination, which means you shouldn’t be embarrassed either. In fact, doctors would prefer their patients to come in and be screened for STDs because it’s so important for their overall health.
– You should be tested yearly for STDs, at the minimum
– If you have multiple partners regularly, STD testing should be done frequently
– Even if you don’t have symptoms, you could have an STD and should be tested
– It’s recommended to have yearly testing for HIV, syphilis, herpes, Hepatitis B and C, Chlamydia, and Gonorrhea.
– Testing doesn’t take as long as you might think; the process is normally quite fast.
Learning More About STDs
If you haven’t learned much in terms of STDs, then educate yourself by watching sexual education videos or attending a local class. You might be surprised at what you learn, especially if you have never received formal education for this subject. Additionally, make sure testing for sexually transmitted diseases is a regular part of your life for added protection.
Disclosure: https://stdtestingfacilities.com/provides users same day STD testing in a discrete and proficient manner.
