(STIs) Testing-Education-Treatment

STIs are common.

There are many different types of STIs. They can be passed through oral sex include gonorrhea, syphilis, HPV, herpes, hepatitis B and chlamydia. STIs can be passed to another person even when there are no obvious symptoms. You cannot always tell by looking if a person is infected with an STI.

1. Gonorrhea:

  • Symptoms & Signs: Burning during urination, abnormal discharge (white, yellow, or green), pelvic pain, and in some cases, no symptoms.
  • Risk Reduction: Practice safe sex (condoms/dental dams), regular STI screenings, and limit sexual partners.

2. Syphilis:

  • Symptoms & Signs: Painless sores (chancres), rashes (often on palms and soles), flu-like symptoms, and if untreated, severe complications affecting organs.
  • Risk Reduction: Use protection during sex, get tested regularly, and avoid contact with syphilis sores.

3. HPV (Human Papillomavirus):

  • Symptoms & Signs: Often asymptomatic, can cause genital warts or lead to cervical and other cancers.
  • Risk Reduction: Get the HPV vaccine, use condoms, and attend regular screenings (Pap smears).

4. Herpes (HSV-1 & HSV-2):

  • Symptoms & Signs: Painful blisters or sores around the mouth or genitals, itching, flu-like symptoms.
  • Risk Reduction: Use condoms, avoid direct contact during outbreaks, and consider antiviral medications.

5. Hepatitis B:

  • Symptoms & Signs: Fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes), dark urine, abdominal pain, and nausea.
  • Risk Reduction: Get vaccinated, avoid sharing needles, and practice safe sex.

6. Chlamydia:

  • Symptoms & Signs: Often asymptomatic, but may cause painful urination, abnormal discharge, and pelvic pain.
  • Risk Reduction: Use condoms, get tested regularly, and ensure both partners receive treatment if infected.

7. HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)

  • Symptoms & Signs: Flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, sore throat), swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and weight loss. If untreated, it can progress to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), leading to a weakened immune system and increased risk of infections and certain cancers.
  • Risk Reduction: Use PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) if at high risk, practice safe sex (condoms) and avoid sharing needles.
  • General Prevention Strategies for STIs and HIV/AIDS:
  • Use protection during sex (condoms/dental dams).
  • Get vaccinated where applicable (HPV, Hepatitis B).
  • Regular STI and HIV testing for early detection and treatment.
  • Limit multiple sexual partners and ensure open communication with them.

Regular STI screenings, open communication with partners, and safe sex practices are key to reducing risks for these infections. Make an appointment now to get tested or send us a confidential message if you need more details!

Achieve Optimal Health Now

Your well-being is just one click away. Reach out to Twin Health and Wellness Center today and discover how our expert team can support your health goals.