A person can have HIV and not show any symptoms for 10-years or longer. However, if left untreated, HIV can compromise the immune system, and cause acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). There is no cure for HIV. However, the current treatment methods are effective. These include anti-retroviral treatment which is complemented by proper nutrition for it to achieve optimum results in slowing down disease progression. When diagnosed and treated early, people infected with HIV can live as long as people without HIV.
Other STDs include Chlamydia, syphilis, and Human papillomavirus (HPV). STDs that can spread during oral sex include gonorrhoea, herpes, HPV, syphilis, trichomoniasis, HIV, and chlamydia.
DIAGNOSING STD
Most STDs cannot be diagnosed just by the presence of symptoms. Tests are needed to determine if you have an STD and these days, most STDs can be diagnosed using a urine or blood test. Additionally, swabs may be taken from sores to check for viruses. Urethral and vaginal swabs can also be used to diagnose STDs.
You can get tested for STD at your regular clinic. Although home testing kits are available, they may not always be reliable. Use them with caution, and check to see if the FDA has approved them. It’s very crucial for couples to know their status and receive treatment for STDs before resuming your sexual relationship. Otherwise, you can pass an infection back and forth between you. You should consult a doctor for the right medication.
PREVENTION
Preventing Sexually Transmitted Infections is crucial to maintaining a healthy sexual life and overall wellbeing. Abstinence is the best way to avoid contracting an STD. However, sex is natural and healthy for a human, and other ways to practice safe sex is the use of condoms. Having one sexual partner or steady sexual partner helps to avoid passing the infection back and forth.
Before having sex with a new partner, it’s important to discuss your sexual history. Also, you should both know your STDs status before having sex. Additionally, STDs usually shows no symptoms, and testing is the only way to get your status update; this is why it’s necessary to always test and have a steady partner. You can also get vaccinated for HPV and hepatitis B for future prevention.
