Sexual Health and the Rise of STDs

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can be uncomfortable to talk about, but ending the stigma is more important than ever. Right now, national health officials are scrambling to deal with a rise in STDs. Arizona is following the trend with a steady increase in cases of syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia – all of which are curable when treated with antibiotics. However, if left untreated, they pose threats ranging from infertility and pregnancy complications, to an increased risk of acquiring human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Several factors are attributed to the rise in STDs, including seemingly greater acceptance of casual sex, more willingness to engage in unprotected sex, social dating apps that increase the opportunity and likelihood for sexual flings, and the false notion that STDs happen to “other people.”

“While HIV is now a chronic treatable condition, unfortunately some people are no longer taking precautions against getting it, and we’re seeing increased numbers of people who are newly diagnosed with HIV,” Dr. Khalsa said. “On the other hand, there are still people who, once diagnosed, hide behind shame and stigma and delay getting treatment until the disease is more progressed. It saddens me because no ever needs to progress to advanced HIV (aka AIDS) . Further, HIV infection is completely preventable. I strongly encourage people to take appropriate precautions.”

Since most STDs don’t present noticeable symptoms, people engaging in unprotected or risky sexual activity may be unknowingly spreading a disease to their partners or putting themselves at risk.

Protecting yourself from STDs

Not having sex is the only sure way to prevent spreading or contracting a STD. However, taking precautions can reduce your risk, including:

1. Use a condom every time.
2. Get tested regularly, including testing of every body part used in sexual activity.
3. Seek immediate treatment and refrain from sex until one week after completing treatment.
4. Limit your number of sexual partners, and make sure your partners are appropriately tested and treated.
5. Avoid sex if genital sores, rash, or discharge is present.
6. Take pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to prevent HIV from taking hold and spreading throughout the body.

Condoms can’t prevent all STDs

While condoms are instrumental in the overall prevention of unplanned pregnancy and the transmission of STDs, they are not 100% effective. Among the various STDs that can still be contracted despite the use of a condom are:

• Genital herpes – sores or lesions on the genitals/genital area, including the anus and upper thighs
• HPV (human papillomavirus) – usually no noticeable symptoms; can result in genital warts or various types of cancer
• Molluscum contagiosum – firm red or pink bumps, though they may also appear as small dimples on the skin
• Pubic lice (“crabs”) – lice that live on pubic hair; most common among teens
• Syphilis – bacterial infection that causes skin sores

It’s important to note that chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HPV, and herpes can all be transmitted orally if condoms are not used.

Concerned about your STD risk or want to get tested? Valleywise Health proudly partners with District Medical Group (DMG) to provide access to compassionate, caring health care providers – from primary care providers to a wide range of specialists. Make an appointment today by calling 1 (833) VLLYWSE.