HIV and AIDS: Causes, symptoms, treatment, and more
5 STDs That Are Secretly Invading Couples' Beds
Knowledge and prevention are the best tools in the fight against sexually transmitted diseases
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can be a silent yet significant threat to couples. Many STDs have subtle or no symptoms, making it easy for them to go unnoticed and spread between partners. Understanding these infections and their impact is crucial for maintaining a healthy relationship. In this article, we will explore five common STDs that often invade couples' beds without their knowledge.
1. Chlamydia: The stealthy invaderChlamydia is one of the most prevalent STDs, affecting millions of people worldwide. It's often called the "silent" infection because many individuals contract it do not exhibit any symptoms. This asymptomatic nature allows chlamydia to spread quickly between partners.
Symptoms and risks:
Prevention and treatment:
Gonorrhea is another common STD that can infect the genitals, rectum, and throat. Like chlamydia, many cases of gonorrhea are asymptomatic, particularly in women. The bacteria responsible for gonorrhea have shown increasing antibiotic resistance, making it a challenging infection.
Symptoms and risks:
Prevention and treatment:
HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection, with many people contracting it at some point in their lives. There are many strains of HPV, some of which can cause genital warts, while others are associated with various cancers, including cervical, anal, and throat cancers.
Symptoms and risks:
Prevention and treatment:
Herpes is a lifelong infection caused by two viruses: HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 typically causes oral herpes, while HSV-2 is usually responsible for genital herpes. Both types can be transmitted through sexual contact, and the infection often lies dormant before reactivating.
Symptoms and risks:
Prevention and treatment:
Trichomoniasis, caused by a parasite, is often underdiagnosed despite being one of the most common STDs. Many infected individuals do not show symptoms, allowing the infection to spread easily between sexual partners.
Symptoms and risks:
Prevention and treatment:
Sexually transmitted diseases can quietly invade the beds of unsuspecting couples, posing significant health risks if left undetected and untreated. Regular screening, honest communication with partners, and safe sexual practices are crucial in preventing the spread of STDs. Awareness and education about these infections can empower individuals to take proactive steps in protecting their sexual health and maintaining healthy relationships.
By understanding the nature of these five common STDs—chlamydia, gonorrhea, HPV, herpes, and trichomoniasis—couples can better navigate their sexual health and take the necessary precautions to safeguard their well-being. Remember, knowledge and prevention are the best tools in the fight against sexually transmitted diseases.
This story was created using AI technology.
Best At-home STD Tests
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The best at-home STD tests use CLIA-certified labs and can identify many STIs, including chlamydia and HIV. Here we discuss tests from Everlywell, Nurx, and more.
Testing for STIs is an important part of a person's sexual and general well-being. While rates of chlamydia and gonorrhea infections are similar or lower than in previous years, syphilis infections have risen by over 17%, with the largest amount of infections since the 1950s.
Below, we look at five of the best STI tests people can order and complete at home.
Disclaimer: All the services tested below were tried by Medical News Today and Healthline editors, who received test kits for free. All opinions are their own.
Use code "HEALTHLINE25" for 25% off
MNT's reviewLetsGetChecked offers a range of multiple STI tests in collaboration with CLIA-certified laboratories. This test can identify the five most common STIs, making it a good option for those who want to regularly check their sexual health. LetsGetChecked states it is its most popular STI test.
The service provides a self-collection testing method, meaning individuals collect their sample at home and return it on the same day.
Those who require regular STI testing may purchase a 3-, 6- or 12-month subscription plan, which offers discounts of $104.30, $119.20, and $126.65, respectively.
People generally receive their results within 2–5 days. They may also contact a company nurse at any time if they wish to discuss their results and treatment.
LetsGetChecked offers prescriptions for medication, but the cost of this service is not included in the test price.
LetsGetChecked sells a range of at-home testing kits for STIs and other health concerns.
Learn more about LetsGetChecked.
What our tester says"I would recommend this product to MNT readers. It's an easily-accessible way to take tests that provide insight into your health. The ordering and testing process is very easy and relatively pain-free, and results come quickly. LetsGetChecked tests could be a great option for people who find it hard to get health tests done due to location or price, although they may be unsuitable for people on a very tight budget."
– Lois Zoppi, MNT Editor.
"I would recommend this product to MNT readers. It's an easily-accessible way to take tests that provide insight into your health. The ordering and testing process is very easy and relatively pain-free, and results come quickly. LetsGetChecked tests could be a great option for people who find it hard to get health tests done due to location or price, although they may be unsuitable for people on a very tight budget."
– Lois Zoppi, MNT Editor.
Use code "HEALTHLINE25" for 25% off.
MNT's reviewEverlywell offers a finger-prick sample collection, providing individuals with all the tools they need to take the test at home.
After mailing the sample to one of the company's CLIA-certified testing facilities, people receive their results on the company's website.
If a person requires regular testing, they could subscribe to a monthly, quarterly, or semi-annual subscription, which provides savings of 25, 20, or 15%, respectively.
Everlywell tests reportedly feature 99% accuracy, and if an individual receives a positive result, a physician may contact them to discuss the next steps.
Everlywell sells a range of at-home testing kits for STIs and other health concerns.
Read our Everlywell review.
What our tester says"I used the Everlywell STD panel test and found that collection was relatively easy, the instructions were extremely clear, and the results were fast. The results provided a lot of helpful (and easily understandable) context about what was being tested for.
I'd recommend Everlywell's tests to people who want to test themselves without having to go to the doctor. Whether they're too busy, needing to be discreet, or don't have insurance for a doctor's visit, this test can provide clarity, quickly."
— Laramy Applekamp, Healthline Content Project Manager
"I used the Everlywell STD panel test and found that collection was relatively easy, the instructions were extremely clear, and the results were fast. The results provided a lot of helpful (and easily understandable) context about what was being tested for.
I'd recommend Everlywell's tests to people who want to test themselves without having to go to the doctor. Whether they're too busy, needing to be discreet, or don't have insurance for a doctor's visit, this test can provide clarity, quickly."
— Laramy Applekamp, Healthline Content Project Manager
Pros & consNurx offers a range of screenings, including these three at-home tests for STIs:
The company says its labs have accreditations and approvals from CAP and CLIA and that it protects personal and health information according to the statutes of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA).
One advantage of choosing Nurx is that the company allows payments from insurance plans. While this lowers the cost of the test kit, there is also an additional $29.50 service fee for every kit. The service fee is $14.50 for those without insurance.
To buy a test, a person must fill out a health history questionnaire on the Nurx app or website. Next, the person selects their kit, with or without advice from the Nurx medical team.
Once the kit arrives, the person takes their samples, packages them in the prepaid envelope, and drops them in the mail. The company says it provides results within 7 business days.
Nurx does not offer free medical consultations. The company charges $15 for unlimited messaging with the medical team about test results.
Read our Nurx review.
Pros & consThe total box is the most comprehensive STI testing kit from myLAB BOX. It involves testing blood, saliva, and urine samples for 14 STIs.
The company states the labs involved have Certified Analytics Professional (CAP) and CLIA qualifications.
Using FDA-approved technology, the test screens for:
People over 30 can also be tested for human papillomavirus (HPV). This test costs $20 extra.
The company says that providing the samples takes 5 minutes and that results are available on a secure online platform within 2–5 days. It also offers free consultations with certified physicians to anyone with a positive result.
myLAB BOX sells a range of at-home testing kits for STIs and other health concerns.
Read our full review of myLAB Box here.
Pros & consOraQuick offers an at-home HIV test kit that only detects antibodies after 3 months of exposure to the virus.
This is the only at-home oral HIV test with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval.
The test kit includes a test stick that people use to swab their upper and lower gums. They then insert this into the test tube and read the result within 20–40 minutes.
People can order multiple packs at once for a discount.
OraQuick does not sell tests for other STIs.
Pros & consTelehealth options make it possible for a person to work directly with some labs to get an in-lab STD test. With an in-lab test STD test, a person knows their sample will be collected by a health professional and they have ready access to professional medical advice. However, in-lab STD tests also mean a person has to schedule a test, travel to the lab, and have less privacy.
People can get a full panel STD test kit that tests for 10 STIs:
The company states that it offers FDA-approved tests and works with CLIA-certified labs. Its medical team is available 24/7, so individuals who wish to ask questions can get in touch anytime.
Results are available within 2 days. Those who get a positive result can talk with an STDcheck doctor who may offer a prescription for $95.
The 10 test panel is available for $139, but the price increases to $259 for persons who want to add the HIV RNA Early Detection. This tests for HIV 9-11 days after exposure.
Pros & consThe table below compares the STI test kit brands listed above. The prices listed in this table are for one-time purchases without insurance.
Some advantages and disadvantages of at-home STI tests, compared with lab tests, include:
After receiving their test kit from an online provider, people can take the STI test with all the company's tools. This may include needles or lancets, swabs, collection tubes, alcohol wipes, bandaids, and a prepaid envelope.
An individual might need to take a blood or urine sample or a rectal, oral, or vaginal swab, depending on the STI test. They can then return their sample to a testing center through the mail.
Typically, companies will ask people to take and return their samples on the same day.
The company will then test the sample — usually at a CLIA-certified lab — and send a person's results through a secure online portal. People can then discuss their results with the company's medical team or a healthcare professional.
People should not make health decisions based on the results of an at-home test without first consulting a doctor.
The FDA states that at-home tests are cost-effective, fast, and confidential ways to test for health conditions at home. However, it warns that these tests should not replace regular care from a doctor. People can find FDA-approved at-home tests on the FDA website.
The accuracy of these tests may depend on the sample collection method, how quickly a person ships their sample back, and the lab that tests the sample.
To ensure accuracy and quality, a person should look for tests with Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA) certifications. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) claims that these are established quality standards for laboratory testing that offer an accreditation program for clinical labs.
Healthcare insurers, including Medicare and Medicaid, typically cover some or all STI testing costs. However, there are several places where a person may receive free or low cost STI screening, including:
Learn more about where to receive STI testing.
The CDC mentions that STI tests may benefit people with an increased risk of contracting a sexual infection. They include:
The CDC also states that taking an STI test during pregnancy may help prevent complications.
It is important to note that STIs do not always cause symptoms. However, people may wish to take a test if they experience:
Individuals may wish to take a test if they believe they have had exposure to an STI.
Some people may prefer to get tests done in person. This may be a more suitable option for those who feel uncomfortable collecting a sample themselves. Others may not want to have an STI test sent to their home.
Below, we list some of the best in-person STI testing options.
Some people may feel nervous talking about their STI results and may not know which questions to ask. Below are some examples that may help people discuss with a healthcare professional about their results.
Yes, many companies offer STI testing at home.
At-home testing often requires collecting a urine sample or a vaginal, rectal, or throat swab. People must then send these samples to the lab the company uses. Individuals will typically receive their results within 2 weeks of sending off their samples.
Yes, many companies offer STI testing at home.
At-home testing often requires collecting a urine sample or a vaginal, rectal, or throat swab. People must then send these samples to the lab the company uses. Individuals will typically receive their results within 2 weeks of sending off their samples.
Are at-home STD tests accurate?The Preventive Services Task Force states that at-home testing is highly accurate for chlamydia and gonorrhea.
While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not state how accurate self-testing is, it recommends healthcare professionals use at-home HIV tests as an additional strategy to encourage testing among gay and bisexual males.
While self-testing is accurate, people need to be aware that there is always the risk of collecting a sample incorrectly, leading to a potentially inaccurate result. If a person receives a result they do not understand or were not expecting, they can contact a healthcare professional for further advice.
The Preventive Services Task Force states that at-home testing is highly accurate for chlamydia and gonorrhea.
While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not state how accurate self-testing is, it recommends healthcare professionals use at-home HIV tests as an additional strategy to encourage testing among gay and bisexual males.
While self-testing is accurate, people need to be aware that there is always the risk of collecting a sample incorrectly, leading to a potentially inaccurate result. If a person receives a result they do not understand or were not expecting, they can contact a healthcare professional for further advice.
How do I get myself checked for STDs?If a person believes they have an STI, they should contact a doctor or clinic to arrange testing or purchase an at-home test kit.
Some clinics and organizations, such as Planned Parenthood, offer free or low cost testing.
Insurance covers most STI testing, but it is always worth checking with the insurance company before making an appointment. Many companies that offer at-home testing do not accept insurance.
Different STI testing will require different samples. However, people will typically need to collect a urine sample or a throat, rectal, or vaginal swab. Then, the samples will go to a lab where technicians will test for signs of STIs.
People will often receive their results within a couple of weeks. If a person goes through a clinic or doctor's office for testing, they will receive a prescription for medication if they receive a positive result.
Most companies offering at-home testing do not provide prescriptions with a positive result.
If a person believes they have an STI, they should contact a doctor or clinic to arrange testing or purchase an at-home test kit.
Some clinics and organizations, such as Planned Parenthood, offer free or low cost testing.
Insurance covers most STI testing, but it is always worth checking with the insurance company before making an appointment. Many companies that offer at-home testing do not accept insurance.
Different STI testing will require different samples. However, people will typically need to collect a urine sample or a throat, rectal, or vaginal swab. Then, the samples will go to a lab where technicians will test for signs of STIs.
People will often receive their results within a couple of weeks. If a person goes through a clinic or doctor's office for testing, they will receive a prescription for medication if they receive a positive result.
Most companies offering at-home testing do not provide prescriptions with a positive result.
What is a full panel STD test?A full-panel STI test screens for the most common STIs. Generally, these will look for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, hepatitis B and C, and HIV.
Some full panels may test for other STIs, such as trichomoniasis, herpes, and Gardnerella. However, these are likely to be more expensive.
A full-panel STI test screens for the most common STIs. Generally, these will look for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, hepatitis B and C, and HIV.
Some full panels may test for other STIs, such as trichomoniasis, herpes, and Gardnerella. However, these are likely to be more expensive.
Where can I get free STI testing?Free or heavily discounted STI testing may be available in the U.S. People can search the CDC database to find free tests nearby.
Certain foundations and nonprofit organizations also provide free testing. For example, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation offers this in over 28 locations nationwide.
Learn more about where to get free or low cost STI testing here.
Free or heavily discounted STI testing may be available in the U.S. People can search the CDC database to find free tests nearby.
Certain foundations and nonprofit organizations also provide free testing. For example, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation offers this in over 28 locations nationwide.
Learn more about where to get free or low cost STI testing here.
An at-home STI test may suit people needing convenient, discreet STI testing. Various companies offer test bundles, consultations, and retests, and the results are generally available within a few days.
Follow the company's instructions carefully to increase the likelihood of an accurate result.
HPV, Cervical Cancer Vaccine: 15 Facts
Gardasil, the new vaccine against human papilloma virus (HPV) -- which causes cervical cancer and genital warts -- is now available nationwide.
Here is what you need to know now about this new vaccine.
1. What is Gardasil?
Gardasil is a vaccine, licensed for use in June 2006, by the FDA. It targets four strains of human papillomavirus (HPV) -- HPV-6, 11, 16, and 18. HPV-16 and HPV-18 account for about 70% of all cervical cancers. HPV-6 and -11 cause about 90% of genital warts. HPV is also linked to anal cancer.
2. How does HPV spread?
Sexual activity spreads the virus, a very common one. It's one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the country, according to the CDC, with more than 20 million people currently infected and another 6.2 million contracting the virus each year.
About half of those with HPV are aged 15 to 24. Surveys suggest 3.7% of U.S. Girls have sex by age 13, and 62.4% have had sex by the 12th grade.
3. Who should get the vaccine?
Gardasil is approved by the FDA for girls and women ages 9 to 26. The CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that the vaccine be given routinely to girls at age 11 to 12 years old, although doctors may choose to vaccinate girls as young as 9. The CDC also recommends the vaccine for women age 13 to 26 who did not receive the vaccine at an earlier age.
However, if a girl or woman is already infected with HPV, the vaccine will not prevent that strain of HPV from causing disease. It will protect against new infections with other strains of HPV included in the vaccine.
The vaccine is also being studied in women up to age 45, although that group may be targeted for the vaccine later.
The vaccine is being studied in males, too. Men can get HPV infections and can pass the virus to their sex partners. HPV causes genital warts and is associated with rare cases of cancer of the penis. Particularly in gay men, HPV is linked to anal cancers. Merck is currently testing Gardasil in men, including gay men.
4. What is the best way to talk to my daughter about this?
Emphasize that the primary goal is to help prevent cervical cancer. If you, as a parent, are worried this will give your child a false sense of security that they can't catch a sexually transmitted infection from sexual activity, you can also emphasize that the vaccine only protects against certain strains of HPV -- not against any of the many other types of sexually transmitted infections.
5. Does Gardasil protect against all cervical cancers?
No. The vaccine does protect against the strains of HPV most likely to cause cancer. But it does not protect against all HPV strains.
However, recent reports suggest that the vaccine may give wider protection than originally thought. There is preliminary evidence it may offer some protection against other HPV strains, which cause 8% or 9% of cervical cancers.
6. How effective is the new vaccine?
Studies have shown it is 100% effective in the prevention of cervical precancers and noninvasive cervical cancers caused by HPV-16 and 18 in those not already exposed to those strains, according to Merck & Co. Inc., which makes Gardasil. Merck is a WebMD sponsor.
7. If someone is already sexually active, will this vaccine still work?
If a person has been infected with any of the four strains the vaccine protects against, the vaccine won't provide protection against that type. But it will prevent infection from the other three.
8. How long is Gardasil effective?
Research suggests the vaccine lasts at least four years. Long-term results are not yet certain. The protection might last longer.
9. Does the vaccine actually contain HPV or any live virus?
No. It has a virus-like particle, but not the actual virus.
10. Is Gardasil safe?
Clinical trial data have found it is safe.
11. What does the vaccine cost? Will insurance cover it?
The "list" price is about $120 per dose, and three doses are needed. But that is the price your doctor pays to the manufacturer. It does not include the cost of an office visit or other charges, so the cost to individuals could be higher. The federal Vaccines for Children Program will provide free vaccines to those under age 19 who qualify. More information on that program is on the CDC web site, www.Cdc.Gov. A number of insurers say they plan to cover the costs.
12. Is it available everywhere in the U.S.?
Supplies have been shipped nationwide, according to Merck, although your individual doctor's office or clinic may not have ordered it.
13. Will the new vaccine make cervical cancer screens such as the Pap test passé?
No. Screening with a Pap test is still needed, since the vaccine does not protect against all cervical cancer.
14. Is this the only vaccine for cervical cancer?
There's a second vaccine in the works: Cervarix, from GlaxoSmithKline. Cervarix targets two HPV strains, HPV-16 and HPV-18. GSK says it plans to seek FDA approval for Cervarix by the end of the year. Early studies find that this vaccine, like Gardasil, is extremely safe and effective. GlaxoSmithKline is a WebMD sponsor.
15. How common is cervical cancer and how deadly?
The American Cancer Society predicts that in 2007, there will be about 11,150 new U.S. Cases of invasive cervical cancer, and 3,670 cervical-cancer deaths.
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women worldwide. There are about 500,000 new cases, and 250,000 cervical-cancer deaths each year. According to the World Health Organization, nearly 80% of cases occur in low-income countries, where cervical cancer is the most common cancer in women
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