A recent report released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has found that even with greater efforts to educate the public on the dangers of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and the importance of practicing safer sex, there are 19 million new cases of syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia in the U.S. each year. This is a high number, especially considering that these infections are preventable.

USA Today reports that the most significant rise has been seen in chlamydia, with rates of the disease steadily increasing during the past 20 years.
According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, chlamydia sometimes presents with little to no symptoms, so a person can pass it on to their partner without even knowing they are infected.

“STDs are one of the most critical health challenges facing the nation today,” CDC researchers said in their report, quoted by the news source.
The report also found that while syphilis rates fell slightly from 2009 to 2010, the number of infection among young black men is up 136 percent since 2006.

The first sexual health event that the news source pointed out was Columbia University being named by the Trojan condom company as the school with the best sexual health resources for its students for the second year in a row. This is due to the fact that students can easily gain access to contraceptives on campus, and have access to the interactive website “Go Ask Alice,” which allows students to anonymously ask sexual health questions.

Other important advancements made this year included the comprehensive study conducted by Indiana University’s Center for Sexual Health Promotion. The results of its research, such as the fact that only 1 out of 4 acts of vaginal intercourse involve a condom, have lead to the development of more programs to promote safer sex.

“These data about sexual behaviors and condom use in contemporary America are critically needed by medical and public health professionals who are on the front lines addressing issues such as HIV, sexually transmissible infections, and unintended pregnancy,” said Michael Reece, director of the Center for Sexual Health Promotion.

Finally, the Sentinel said that the biggest event in sexual health this year was the world population reaching 7 billion people. This milestone led to greater discussion about safer sex and reproductive education.

Here is a link to the full article.

by Medical Director Lisa Oldson, MD

Did you know that as recently as 5 to 10 years ago, I tested patients for chlamydia by inserting a long, thin Q-Tip into the penis for men, and into the cervix for women? For most men, that exam was seriously painful…and it was definitely uncomfortable for women, too.

Chlamydia testing has come a long way since then, and now the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend annual chlamydia screenings for all sexually active adolescents and women age 25 and under. Why? Because, in the United States, there are approximately 2.8 million new chlamydia infections every year, most often diagnosed in young women and women of color.

Most patients have no symptoms with a chlamydia infection…which is why getting tested for chlamydia is so important. Those who do report symptoms of chlamydia infection may experience a discharge from the vagina or penis, burning with urination, pelvic discomfort or bleeding during sex.

Our team of sexual health counselors field questions on a daily basis about the “accuracy” of our tests. They understand that there isn’t a single figure to define accuracy…rather, we define accuracy in terms of sensitivity and specificity.

For example, the chlamydia test we offer is a urine test that’s called the Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT). Recommended by the CDC, this test is extremely specific…which means that, if it says you have chlamydia, you almost certainly have it. The test is 98.5% specific for men and 98.9% specific for women.

Sensitivity of the test is a bit lower, however, meaning that it picks up chlamydia in 94.7% of women and 97.7% of men who are infected. That said, the NAAT is highly effective and there’s no better, non-invasive chlamydia test available today.

If you get tested for chlamydia and it turns out that you’re positive, I have good news for you: chlamydia is curable.

If a chlamydia infection goes untreated, however, there’s a risk of complications. For example, some women develop pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), a potentially serious infection of the female reproductive system. And, according to the CDC, PID causes up to 10-15% of these women to become infertile.

What about men and chlamydia? Although men are less likely to develop complications, epididymitis (an infection of the tubes that carry sperm from the testes) or prostatitis (an infection of the prostate gland) are possible complications from an untreated chlamydia infection.

The takeaway? The sooner you get tested for chlamydia ⎼ and treated, if necessary ⎼ the better. Do you know your STD status? If not, perhaps you’ll allow me to lead you through this quick and easy STD Test Recommender to help you decide if testing for chlamydia or other STDs makes sense for you.

In the study, researchers looked at the way college students talk about sex ⎼ especially casual sex or hooking up ⎼ and what that means for the way their classmates think about sex.

So, what did the researchers find?

While college students talk the talk, it seems that they don’t walk the walk…at least as much as they say. According to the study, students tended to have fewer casual sex encounters than their discussions indicated.

But there’s an extra note of caution here, too. The types of sex college students were most likely to talk about were high-risk situations, like having unplanned and drunken sex with someone they didn’t know. And talking about that kind of sex made their friends more likely to perceive high-risk sex as normal.

That’s a problem.

When people think high-risk sex is normal, they’re more likely to go for it. And, unfortunately, people who have drunken sex with strangers are more likely to catch an STD or have an unintended pregnancy.

To prevent STDs and unintended pregnancy, it’s important to use condoms. And it also helps to know the STD status of your sexual partner. Better yet, couples can get tested for STDs together before they have sex (including oral and anal sex, too). Remember, STDs don’t always caused obvious symptoms…testing is the only way to know if you or a potential sex partner has an STD.

So the next time you hear about a hook-up…take it with a grain of salt. And if you’re sexually active, take control of your sexual health by using protection and getting tested for STDs.

by Ritter Rudesind, Care Advisor

A lot of people agree on the importance of educating young people about safer sex. We have sex education in schools, Public Service Announcements on TV and radio stations, and other forms of outreach aimed at young people to help them be responsible and protect their sexual health.

So why is it that, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 24% of HIV positive people are 50 years or older? Not to mention, the CDC expects that percentage to double by 2015. That’s why today’s National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day is so important…to help shed light on this public health challenge and how to help prevent it.

What are some contributing causes of the rising number of HIV infections among older generations?

Age-based profiling

It turns out that many physicians don’t test older patients for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and many don’t even ask their older patients about their sex lives or intravenous drug use. According to Dr. Stacey Lindau, an Ob/Gyn at the University of Chicago, “Removing age-based profiling with respect to STD screenings is a good idea”…and a good first step in reversing the trend of new HIV infections among Boomers and older.

Lack of outreach and information

Many people in their 50s and above never had sex ed in their youth or adolescence, so they lack the knowledge that younger generations take for granted. When it comes to why and how to use condoms, and the importance of regular STD screenings and not sharing drug needles…some older folks just don’t know all the facts.

Seniors are living longer…and enjoying sex in their golden years

The good news is that people 50 and older are living longer, healthier, more socially active lives than ever before. They’re taking care of their bodies and continuing to enjoy sex…but they’re less likely to talk about sex and STDs with their partners, friends and doctors like a lot of younger people do.

So, if you’re 50-plus…remember that taking care of your sexual health is a critical part of taking care of your overall health (and your partner’s health). In other words, it’s important to take control of your sexual well-being at any age…we encourage you to talk to your doctor about HIV and STD testing, and your options for safer sex as you get older.

Related info:

The Basics About STDs

But some things are best left to professionals…like getting tested and treated for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

That’s why, earlier this year, the FDA cracked down on 11 companies selling unevaluated cures and treatments for STDs. The FDA stepped in because STD treatments require a prescription from a real doctor. Without it, people could be putting themselves and others at risk.

Direct and to the point, the FDA summed up their efforts this way: “there are no over-the-counter or online drugs or dietary supplements available to treat or prevent STDs.”

Why is this reminder from the FDA important to you? I know that when I’m in pain or worried about my health, I want an answer yesterday. And I wish I could find a quick fix for my problem online…without needing to talk to a doctor. But that would be putting my health at risk.

Because when it comes to health, there’s no substitute for a doctor’s diagnosis.

That said, we understand that it can be feel uncomfortable to talk to your primary care doc about your private sex life…and the possibility of STDs. That’s why, if you test positive for an STD, we offer you a free and confidential phone consultation with one of our physicians.

I’m a Care Advisor here…and I’m human, just like you. And if you call me or another of our STD-certified advisors, there’s no need to be uncomfortable or embarrassed. We’re just here to listen to your situation, and we’re trained to provide you the answers you need for your peace of mind.

We’ll help you decide if STD testing makes sense for you. And if you test positive for an STD, we’ll make sure you’re connected to a real doctor to discuss your treatment options…and in a lot of cases, our docs can prescribe the treatment you need.

Remember, all common STDs are treatable and manageable…and some are even curable. Just be careful to heed the FDA, and don’t be tempted by any potentially bogus cures or treatments found online.

Related info:

• FDA Consumer Update: STD Treatments That Don’t Work
• National Public Radio: Feds Crack Down on “Bogus” STD Remedies
• Washington Post: FDA Cracks Down on Unproven STD Treatments

When it comes to STDs, there are some that everyone knows about…and some that are lesser known.

Hepatitis C can be transmitted through sexual contact, but also through exposure to the blood of an infected person: for example, unsterilized tattoo needles, razorblades, blood transfusions, IV drugs…even toothbrushes. So a lot of people don’t think of hepatitis C as an STD, but they should.

Hepatitis C kills almost 10,000 people every year in the United States alone, causing liver cancer or other severe liver damage. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) further estimate that about 3.2 million people have hepatitis C in the United States…but they don’t know it. Interestingly, an estimated two-thirds of hep C carriers are so-called Baby Boomers.

Gregg Allman of the Allman Brothers Band recently spoke out about his battle with hepatitis C. Like most people with the virus, he didn’t find out that he had the infection until decades after he’d contracted it from an unsterilized tattoo needle. Following 30 years’ damage to his body and ineffective interferon treatments, Allman needed a liver transplant to keep fighting the disease.

Two decades ago when hepatitis C was first discovered, Allman’s circumstances would likely have been fatal. While interferon treatments can suppress hep C symptoms, it wasn’t until recently that a cure for hep C (in up to 21% of hep C cases) was known. With celebrity figures like Allman speaking up and taking action to fight the virus, and given the thousands of people with liver damage in need of transplants, the medical community was hard-pressed to find a solution…and find a solution they did in the form of new medical advancements that bring new hope for a cure.

In the last few months, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved two new drugs – Incivek (telaprevir) and Victrelis (boceprevir) – to help treat and cure hepatitis C. Either one, in combination with the two standard treatment drugs (peginterferon and ribavirin), has shown a cure probability of 70% in half the time (24 weeks) of the original therapies. A recent article in The New England Journal of Medicine also notes the effectiveness of the new treatments in cases where previous therapies have failed.

If you’ve never been screened for hepatitis C…testing online is one way to do it, ensuring a quick, painless and reliable process. Especially when the virus is caught early, the new treatments are likely to cure the infection.

Of course, preventing a hepatitis C infection in the first place is the best option for your health. So if you’re sexually active – especially if you’re not in a mutually monogamous relationship with someone whose STD status you know – annual testing and safer sex practices go along way to avoid spreading infections.

And if you’re wondering about your hepatitis C risk, check out our interactive Test Recommender. Lisa Oldson, MD, will help guide you through a set of easy questions to determine your risk and whether you should consider testing.

And remember, we’re available 7 days a week to answer your questions and help you choose which tests are right for you.

So don’t be a statistic…be smart, know your STD status, and help eradicate hepatitis C!

Related info:

• CNN Health: FDA approves two new drugs to treat hepatitis C
• FDA News Release: FDA approves Incivek for hepatitis C
• CTV News: Third of world infected with hepatitis, says WHO

It’s standard practice to get an oil change for your car every 3 months or every 3,000 miles. Without it, you can burn out your engine and seriously damage your car. So, why do a lot of people seem to value their car’s health more than their own sexual health?

Sure, you might be feeling fine. And maybe you haven’t noticed anything unusual. But remember: many of STDs don’t show any symptoms. So you’re not necessarily infection-free, just because you’re not experiencing any signs or symptoms of disease for a long time.

Why is it important to get tested for STDs regularly? Well, if you’re sexually active and not in a mutually monogamous relationship in which you know each other’s STD status, getting tested for common STDs on a schedule is the only way to stay on top of your sexual health.

And if it turns out that you do test positive for an infection, early detection is key. Why? Because if an STD is left unchecked for years, it can eventually result in serious damage to your body…including pelvic Inflammatory disease (PID), cancer, infertility and other health conditions.

If you’re a woman…
Hopefully you’re seeing your gynecologist once a year for a Pap test and pelvic exam. But that annual check-up doesn’t automatically include STD testing. We encourage you to be proactive about including STD testing in your routine health maintenance plan.

And if you’re a man…remember, ”annuals” aren’t just for girls! In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend annual screening for HIV for anyone (ages 13-64) who is sexually active, and has had one or more partners since their last test. If you have questions about what tests are right for you, the Test Recommender on our site is a great starting point.

As a Care Adviser, I talk to people all the time in their 30s and 40s who have never been tested…even though they’ve had multiple sexual partners. While it’s never too late to start taking care of your health, you’re potentially risking your health (and that of your partner or partners) the longer you wait to get tested.

Ideally, if you test positive for a sexually transmitted infection, you can nip it in the bud early…with proper treatment, if needed. And you can share your diagnosis with any affected past or current partners so they can get tested and treated, too.

A lot of people are scared when they call us to get tested…but don’t be. People are often worried about what their results might be, or they’re concerned about how a partner might react to their test results, or they think they’ll have to strip down and go through a painful procedure to get tested.

But our testing service is quick, painless and compassionate. Our doctors have chosen the most reliable and convenient tests for you…no dreaded “swabbing” required! And if you test positive, remember that all STDs are treatable, and some are curable. One of our doctors will walk you through your test results and next steps, and even prescribe treatment in some cases.

Finally, if you’re getting tested for the first time, and you’re confused or overwhelmed about your testing options, call us toll-free at 888.398.5393. We’re standing by 7 days a week to take your call, listen to your circumstances, and help you choose the right test or tests for you.

Think of STD testing as a tune-up…for your health!

Related info:
CDC: STD Fact Sheets

Asking around, I was surprised that most 20-something women don’t even know that female condoms exist. But they’ve been around awhile. The original version of the female condom (FC) was introduced in the 90s…and in 2009, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the FC2, a new, more comfortable version of the female condom.

How does the FC2 work?
The FC2 is a thin sheath or pouch that’s inserted into the vagina. At each end of the sheath, there’s a ring. One ring keeps the condom in place inside the vagina, while the other – outside, at the entrance of the vagina – helps “guide” penetration and keep the sheath from being moved up into the vagina during intercourse.

What’s in it for you?
When used correctly, the FC2 helps prevent pregnancy and most sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. And according to AVERT, an international HIV/AIDS prevention group, female condoms like FC2 allow women to share the responsibility for safer sex with their partner(s).

Carole Brite, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood of Illinois, puts it this way:
“The female condom is one of the only forms of barrier contraception that allows women to be in control over their own sexual health…allowing them protection against unwanted pregnancies as, well as HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections. It is a vital tool in the fight against HIV/AIDS.”

Indeed, with women accounting for more than half of HIV cases worldwide, HIV prevention initiatives for women are still desperately needed. The female condom is the only female-initiated HIV prevention method currently available, empowering women to protect themselves from the virus that causes AIDS.

Where can you buy the FC2?
Recently, 400 Walgreens locations across the country stocked their shelves with FC2s. The cost of a pack of three condoms ranges from $5.99 to $7.99. You can also purchase female condoms at Walgreens.com.

“Limited access to female condoms has long been a barrier. [We] commend Walgreens for making a business decision that will help women and men across the U.S. access the prevention tools they need to stay healthy,” says Jessica Terlikowski, co-founder and chair of the Chicago Female Condom Campaign. “We urge other commercial pharmacies to follow Walgreens’ commitment to reduce new HIV and STD infections, and make the new female condom available in their stores.”

Here’s hoping that the FC2 will soon be as mainstream and commonly-used as the male condom because, well…why not? It is time to take control, ladies!

Learn more about female condoms…
…and how to connect with efforts in Chicago, Houston, New York City, San Francisco and Washington, DC:

• Chicago: ringonit.org, facebook.com/chifemalecondom
• Houston: facebook.com/fc2-4utexas
• New York City: nyc.gov/condoms, facebook.com/NYCcondom
• San Francisco: fc2sf.org, facebook.com/pages/FC2-San-Francisco/170243813018346
• Washington DC: dcdoinit.com, facebook.com/pages/DCs-Doin-It-with-the-Female-Condom-FC2/155914911093164

More information:

• Female Condoms Now Available at Select Walgreens Stores (AIDS Connect)
• Health Department Promotes the New Female Condom (San Francisco Chronicle)