Sexually transmitted disease (STD) rates are up in St. Louis, Missouri, leaving many residents to wonder why. Recently, CBS St. Louis spoke to Pam Walker, health director for the area, who believes that online hookups may be partially to blame for the increased number of infections. According to Walker, the anonymity that the internet offers mixed with common misunderstandings about how STDs are transmitted lead to unsafe sex.
“Two people who know their status and know they are positive for HIV feel like they can have sex without a condom, because they’re already infected,” said Walker, quoted by CBS, adding that “what they’re doing is giving each other syphilis.” The director continued by saying that it would be possible to send out investigators to determine the source of these STDs, but it would be costly, and funds are limited. Walker added that syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia are three infections that are on the rise.
According to Planned Parenthood, more than half of Americans experience an STD in their lifetime, this suggests that as numbers of these infections increase, so should efforts to reduce them.
Archive for the ‘herpes’ Category
STD Infections on the Rise in St. Louis
Thursday, August 2nd, 2012Scientists Identify Gene Associated with Cold Sore Severity
Tuesday, July 3rd, 2012Herpes is a common sexually transmitted disease (STD) that can cause cold sores on the mouth or genital warts in people who have it. Individuals who have this infection can expect to have periods of time where they have a multitude of lesions, and other times when they appear symptom-free. Recently, researchers from the Utah School of Medicine and the University of Massachusetts Medical School have identified a specific gene that affects how severe a person’s cold sore will be. Their results could lead to the creation of more effective medications to treat cold sores not only in herpes patients, but everyone who experiences common cold sores.
“These findings could have important implications for the development of new drugs that affect determinants of the cold sore phenotype,” said study authors.
Herpes, like all other STDs, may be prevented by practicing safer sex. Many people do not realize that this and other infections can be transmitted via oral sex, which is why it’s necessary to increase public awareness of the various ways a person can contract an STD.
“Am I a herpes carrier?”
Thursday, April 21st, 2011By Ritter Rudesind, Care Advisor
If you’ve ever been tested for an STD, you know how nerve-wracking it can be to wait for the results…and when the results come back negative, it’s a huge relief.
But what if you find out that – while you have tested negative – your monogamous partner has tested positive? Then, years later, it happens again. Your current monogamous partner tests positive, but you test negative. That’s exactly what happened to one of our callers…to protect his anonymity, let’s call him Don.
Don was concerned that he might be a herpes carrier…specifically, a carrier of Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-2). Although he had been tested for herpes several times, always with negative test results, both his ex-wife and current girlfriend tested positive for the virus. He had never cheated on either woman and he was certain that they hadn’t cheated on him. So Don was concerned that he might actually be positive for HSV-2, even though his test results were consistently negative…in which case he might have unintentionally spread the virus to others.
Our Medical Director – Lisa Oldson, MD – confirmed that Don is not an HSV-2 carrier, but that it’s possible for a person to have sex with people who are positive and not contract the virus.
According to Dr. Lisa:
- No sex during herpes outbreaks
- No daily antiviral medication
- No regular use of condoms by men
Dr. Lisa also advised Don to continue to get tested annually and watch for sores on his genitals…in which case he should seek medical attention immediately.
What’s your question about STDs or testing? We’d love to hear from you (866.660.2593). Each of our Care Advisors is a certified sexual health counselor…along with our staff of doctors, we can provide you the most well-informed answers to your questions.
Related links:
- Genital Shedding of Herpes Simplex Virus Among Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Persons With HSV-2 Infection (Journal of the American Medical Association)
- How Many Patients Spread Herpes, But Don’t Even Know They Have It? (TIME, Healthland)
- Genital Herpes Can Be Spread When Lesions Aren’t Present: Study (MedlinePlus)
Confused about HSV-1 and HSV-2?
Monday, January 24th, 2011by Lisa Oldson, MD, Medical Director
If you’re confused about the two different types of herpes, you’re not alone.
Type 1 herpes (HSV-1) often causes cold sores or blisters around the mouth…most often around the border of the lips. When HSV-1 shows up on the mouth area, it’s referred to as oral herpes. In fact, many people get infected with HSV-1 during childhood through light mouth-to-mouth contact, such as an infected relative kissing you when you were young.
In other words, HSV-1 isn’t necessarily a sexually transmitted disease, but rather a disease that can be easily transmitted through skin-to-skin sor mouth-to-mouth contact…especially when sores or blisters are present. However, HSV-1 can cause genital herpes which is most commonly spread when someone who has HSV-1 on the mouth performs oral sex on his or her partner.
After an initial outbreak, HSV-1 genital herpes outbreaks tend to recur less frequently over time, compared to type 2 (HSV-2) genital herpes…but you might continue to have symptoms or flares intermittently. If you see any sores on your genitals, I urge you to see your regular doctor in order to confirm your herpes diagnosis and treatment plan (if any). Condoms can reduce your risk of spreading the virus to others, but it’s important to remember that herpes is also spread through skin-to-skin contact…a condom or dental dam only covers part of the genital area, so there’s still a risk of transmitting the virus.
According to the CDC, about one out of every six people have genital herpes, but most of them don’t know they’re infected because they either have mild symptoms or no symptoms. That’s why it’s important to get tested, so you know your status. If you test positive, you can take steps to avoid infecting others…and you’ll be able to avoid potentially serious complications from herpes down the road by getting proper treatment with antiviral medications, if needed.
Bottom line? While HSV-1 most commonly causes oral herpes and HSV-2 most commonly causes genital herpes, you can have either virus in either place (your genitals or your mouth area). I recommend type-specific testing if you’re worried that you may have been exposed to genital herpes.
Also, keep in mind that if you or your partner is pregnant, genital herpes can be harmful to the baby…especially in the last trimester. For that reason, be cautious about any activity that could lead to transmitting either HSV-1 or HSV-2 herpes during late pregnancy.
If you already have herpes and you’re pregnant, check with your regular doctor to be sure you’re doing everything possible to keep your baby safe. With open communication and a little planning, you and your baby should be fine.
My Partner Has Genital Herpes
Tuesday, September 28th, 2010
Wow. I just met Mr. Wonderful and he informs me that he has genital herpes. What should I do?
I get this question a lot in my clinic. Let’s start with checking your herpes status. Remember, 45 million Americans have genital herpes and its estimated that only 10 – 20% of those folks know it so there is a chance that you are among them. Our current blood test for genital herpes is very good at identifying type 1 (which more commonly causes cold sores) and type 2 herpes, unlike the old tests that were available prior to 1999. So, let’s get you tested and take it from there.
You’re positive for type 2 herpes also? OK, it’s a drag to find out that you’re positive for herpes, but on the upside you don’t have to worry about catching a NEW herpes infection from Mr. Wonderful. I do recommend that you should BOTH be tested for all STDs because if you’ve got one STD, you could have another. Once we establish that you are both negative for everything else and positive only for type 2 herpes, we should still talk about safe sex. I recommend using condoms each and every time you have sex as a general principle to stay safe. Also, although its entirely possible to get pregnant and have a healthy baby even with a diagnosis of herpes, there are special considerations that should be discussed with your OB/GYNE, so keep that in mind if and when the time comes that you and Mr. Wonderful settle in for some serious nesting.
What if your test was negative for type 2 herpes? Well, congrats on that one. Remember, you should both be tested for everything to establish your baselines and make sure there are no surprises. Should it be a deal breaker that your partner has herpes? Most people would say no, but of course that’s a very personal decision.
There are several things you can do to lower your risk of catching genital herpes. With discordant couples (meaning one partner has herpes and one doesn’t), safe sex is imperative! Use a condom every time you have sex. What if Mr. Wonderful is so darn great that you want him to be your baby’s daddy someday? No problem, you can have unprotected sex in certain situations and your OB/GYNE can give you some advice on the way to minimize your risk while trying to get pregnant. But I digress… back to he’s positive for herpes and you’re negative.
After using condoms, the next thing to consider is what we call suppressive therapy. He can take an antiviral medication daily to reduce the risk of transmission (the risk of spreading herpes to you). These medications are safe and often available in generic formulations. Why not do everything you can to reduce the risk? Lastly, you should abstain from sex if your partner is having an active outbreak or is having a prodrome, which is a tingling feeling that sometimes occurs before an active herpes outbreak. Keep in mind that the virus can be spread at other times, but during the prodrome or an outbreak he will be most infectious.
Let me mention one more thing for both men and women to understand about herpes and pregnancy. It is somewhat risky for a baby if a women develops a new herpes infection in the last part of pregnancy, so if you are pregnant and part of a discordant couple, talk to your obstetrician about the best way to protect your baby. Most physicians recommend discordant couples abstain from sex (potentially including oral sex if your partner has cold sores) during the last trimester of pregnancy.
Lastly, don’t let herpes ruin a perfectly good relationship. As long as you can talk openly and honestly about STDs, STD testing and safe sex you’re off to a good start!
“STD” is not an STD
Monday, August 23rd, 2010BY ADRIENNE DeLUNA
Caller: “Hello, I’d like to get tested for STD.”
Counselor: “Great! What would you like to get tested for?”
Caller: “STD.”
Counselor: “Well, there are many STDs you can get tested for. Were you concerned about something in particular or would you like to get tested for the 8 most common STDs?”
Caller: “There are more than one!?”
Seriously. This is what happens when we don’t have widespread support for sex education in public schools. We live in such a highly sexualized culture but, as a nation, our sexual health literacy is very low. If parents aren’t teaching their children about general safe sex practice and infectious disease and our teachers aren’t teaching about preventative care, it’s no wonder we get basic questions like this on a daily basis. What is an STD? Why are they sometimes called STIs? What’s safer sex? Do I really need to get tested? Doesn’t my doctor test me?
Unfortunately, no, your doctor is probably not testing you for STDs. And, no, STD is not an STD. When you have unprotected oral, vagina, or anal sex, you are putting yourself and others at risk for becoming infected with a variety of sexually transmitted diseases or STDs.
Caller: “I’m interested in getting tested for all STDs. What is in your panel?”
Counselor: “Our 8 Test Panel includes testing for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Herpes, HIV, and Syphilis.
Caller: “Well, I won’t need the Chlamydia and Gonorrhea tests, because I am a man, right?”
Sigh. Chlamydia and gonorrhea are bacterial infections that occur in both men and women. In fact, chlamydia and gonorrhea are among the most common STDs by and large because they can be present without any obvious signs or symptoms. People don’t know they are infected with chlamydia or gonorrhea and unknowingly pass the infection to their partner.
Caller: “I need to get tested for HIV/AIDS.”
Counselor: “Just HIV, or all STDs?”
Caller: “I thought the HIV test covered all STDs?”
Look — getting tested is the most important thing you can do at the beginning of a new relationship (or after!) to protect your health and the health of your partner. Get tested for all STDs so you know the complete status of your sexual health. Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you aren’t sure what you need to test for. That is what we are here for – and we’ve heard it all!
You Asked, We Answered
Tuesday, August 17th, 2010
BY GERALD PALMER
Our phones ring off the hook with questions about sexual health. And we’re happy to answer. Wonder about some of the most frequently asked questions? Wonder no more. This post is devoted to giving you the answers you’re looking for. (We’ll write a post about the rarely asked questions later. Those are good.) Please remember, if you have a question, call us at (888) 215-9543 to speak with a counselor. That’s what we’re here for.
Q: Can I be positive if I’ve never had symptoms?
A: Yes, you may be positive even if you aren’t having any symptoms. For example, women rarely experience symptoms of chlamydia. And most people who have genital herpes aren’t even aware they have it.
Q: What if we only had sex for a few seconds? Can I get anything?
A: Yes, sexually transmitted infections can spread through oral, vaginal or anal sex. And, even if there was no actual penetration, STDs can spread through skin to skin contact, like genital herpes. This can happen no matter how long the exposure lasts…even a few seconds.
Q: My roommate/friend just got diagnosed with herpes. Is it safe to use the same towel/cup/silverware?
A: Herpes does not stay alive on objects. It’s a fragile virus without a host. So you can’t get herpes from sharing towels and cups.
Q: Can I get an STD from oral sex?
A: Flat out, yes. You can get an STD from giving or receiving oral sex. It’s a relatively lower risk activity for some of the infections, but we don’t see the point in detailing the relative risk level for each STD. Why take the chance at all? If you think it’s a small risk, it’s still a risk, right?
Q: Why can’t I get a prescription if I already know that I’m positive?
A: Here at STD Test Express, we care about your health, and part of that care requires a documented positive result before treatment. This way we can ensure that you are getting the appropriate treatment for the infection.
Q: Do you know where I can get treatment without testing?
A: If your partner has tested positive for chlamydia or gonorrhea, there is a clinical practice called Expedited Partner Therapy (EPT). Our doctors require positive test results before treatment, but your physician or partner’s physician may choose to treat without testing under EPT. Remember, treatment is only effective if both partners are treated and then re-tested to ensure that the infection has been cured/managed before resuming sexual activity.
And the #1 most asked question:
Q: How long should I wait to get tested?
A: This will vary from person to person – because all of the STDs have different testing windows. Our doctors recommend testing at 3 weeks after exposure and then getting tested again at 3 months to confirm your results.
Now, we have a question for you. If you are concerned you may have been exposed to an STD or simply want to know your status, what are you waiting for? Don’t take a chance – get tested regularly, know your status, protect yourself and your partners.
Top 10 Myths about Herpes
Thursday, July 22nd, 2010
BY MICHELLE SOBEL
Greek mythology is full of sex. Zeus was notorious for his love affairs, conquests, infidelities and nymph seductions. Likewise, myths about herpes have been long-lived, undoubtedly spawned during ancient times. We’re here to present the facts about herpes and unwind the myths.
Here are the facts.
- Herpes simplex virus type 2 or HSV-2 is a chronic infection that can cause genital sores.
- Evidence has shown that it can make those infected with genital herpes 2 to 3 times more likely to acquire HIV if exposed.
- 16% of the U.S. population has genital herpes, many of whom are unaware they’re infected.
- It’s estimated that more than 80 percent of the people who have genital herpes are undiagnosed and may be passing the virus to others unknowingly.
- The only way to know if you are infected with genital herpes is to get tested.
Here are the myths:
Myth #1 Once you have herpes, you’ll have itchy rashes forever.
Not true. You may have an outbreak of itchy sores, but it does go away. Some people get occasional outbreaks. And some people live with herpes without any signs, itching or symptoms at all.
Myth #2 You can catch herpes from toilet seats.
It’s highly unlikely. The microorganisms that cause genital herpes can’t survive outside the human body on a surface like a toilet seat for very long.
Myth #3 If your partner gets herpes, he or she must be cheating.
Don’t jump to conclusions on this one. Your boyfriend/girlfriend/spouse may have been infected for years and not have known it due to mild or no symptoms.
Myth #4 People with herpes can’t give blood.
According to the American Red Cross, people with genital or oral herpes may donate blood as long as they’re feeling healthy and don’t have any other restricted infections.
Myth #5 People get herpes from sleeping with too many people.
While having unprotected sex with multiple partners raises your risk for contracting an STD, it only takes one unsafe exposure to contract genital herpes. Having herpes is so common. It doesn’t say anything about a person’s promiscuity.
Myth #6 You can’t have sex again if you have herpes.
Of course you can have sex again if you have herpes. There are ways to manage outbreaks and ways to protect from transmitting the virus. It’s not a life sentence of celibacy.
Myth #7 My doctor routinely screens me for herpes.
No she doesn’t. There are no current guidelines for routine herpes testing. If you want a herpes test, you need to ask for one.
Myth #8 You can’t get herpes from oral sex.
Herpes is spread from skin to skin contact. Even if your partner isn’t having an outbreak, it’s possible to transmit the virus. Unless you’re using a condom or dental dam during oral sex, you’re not practicing safer sex.
Myth #9 It’s shameful to have herpes.
This is the myth we’d most like to bust. Herpes is incredibly common. Let’s stop stigmatizing this common virus.
Myth #10 When you have herpes, you know it.
80% of people living with herpes don’t know they have it. Symptoms may not appear or can be very subtle. The only way to know if you have herpes is to get tested. If you’d like to know if your status, get tested. We can help.
“Jersey Shore” and the Herpes Stigma
Thursday, June 10th, 2010
Gossip blogs lit up this week with talk about the reality show “Jersey Shore”, quoting the show’s creator about the STD status of the cast. In a round-table discussion of reality show, Sally Ann Salsano was quoted to say, “We hand [Valtrex] out like M&Ms! ‘Hey kids, it’s time for Valtrex!’ It’s like a herpes nest. They’re all in there mixing it up.” Herpes nest? While it’s not difficult to imagine the fist-pumping, hard-partying cast with names like Snooki, The Situation, and J-WOWW behaving irresponsibly, we’re not thrilled with the stigma surrounding herpes that continues to get played out in the media. Here are some facts:
- Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections around the globe.
- The vast majority of people living with herpes don’t know it.
- Multiple studies have shown that Herpes 2 infection increases the risk for HIV infection by at least twofold
- It’s spread by skin-to-skin contact, so you don’t necessarily have to have intercourse to spread it or catch it
- There’s no cure but there are anti-viral medications available to manage it and live a happy, active life
The only way to know if you have genital herpes or any other STD is to get tested. The continual negative messaging around sexual health and stigmatizing herpes doesn’t help. After the show’s creator blasted about “herpes nests”, the cast felt the need to tell the press that they don’t have herpes. Your sexual health is private. Know your STD status. Share this private information with your partners. No need to alert the media. That’s the Situation.
CDC: Herpes rises to 16% of U.S. Adults
Thursday, March 11th, 2010How many people between the ages of 14 and 49 have genital herpes in the U.S.? Take a guess. 1%? 5%? The CDC released data today that as much as 16 percent of the U.S. population between the ages of 14 and 49 has genital herpes. And that’s just the reported cases. The CDC estimates that more than 80 percent of the people who have the herpes simplex 2 virus have no idea they are infected. Many people never have symptoms or outbreaks, or those symptoms are mild and mistaken for something else. Worse, genital herpes can be transmitted during skin to skin contact even when the infected person is not having any symptoms or showing visible sores.
Are you concerned that you may have been exposed to genital herpes? Getting a type-specific herpes test for HSV-1 and HSV-2 is the only way to learn if you have the infection or if you do not. We’re here to help people get tested for herpes, HIV and other common STDs. Doctors are available 7 days a week to discuss the results and followup with treatment, if necessary.
“This study serves as a stark reminder that herpes remains a common and serious health threat in the United States. Everyone should be aware of the symptoms, risk factors and steps that can be taken to prevent the spread of this lifelong and incurable infection,” said Dr. Kevin Fenton, director of the CDC’s National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD and TB Prevention.
Of the people who have genital herpes infections, women and African-Americans top the list for the highest rates. According to the CDC data, 1 in 5 women is infected with genital herpes or HSV-2. The infection rate was almost twice as high among women — nearly 21 percent — than among men, at 11.5 percent.
For African-Americans, the prevalence of infection was 39.2 percent — more than three times that of whites, at 12.3 percent. Black women are most affected by the disease, with an infection rate of 48 percent.
Fenton said the high rates of herpes among African-Americans is most likely contributing to the high rate of HIV in that community. In fact, statistics show that people with herpes are two to three times more likely to get HIV if exposed.
CDC experts say there are a number of barriers to treatment, including poverty and lack of access to care. They say young women often don’t get tested for STDs because of misinformation and stigma.
And, according to CDC experts, while African-American women and men are often unwilling to get tested, doctors are often reluctant to discuss sexual health with their patients — particularly with black male patients.
