STD-testing

STD Testing Guide (2022)

If you are sexually active, you might have heard the following advice from health experts many times: Use protection and get yourself tested for STDs (sexually transmitted disease).

This is critical because you may have a sexually transmitted disease without being aware of it. Of note, there are no apparent signs or symptoms in many cases. In fact, that’s why doctors and other experts prefer the term STIs or sexually transmitted infections because you can have a symptom-free infection.

But what kind of STI testing you should go for? And how to get tested? The answers depend on multiple factors such as your age, sexual activity and other associated risk factors.

What STIs should you be tested for?

There are a variety of different STIs out there. Speak to the doctor to find out which ones you should be checked for. You may be recommended to be screened for one or more of the following:

  • Gonorrhoea
  • Chlamydia
  • Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
  • Herpes
  • Hepatitis B
  • Trichomoniasis
  • Syphilis

Your physician probably won’t offer to test you for certain STIs unless you have a known exposure, experiencing specific symptoms or you ask for the test.

How to get tested for STDs?

The STD testing is fast, simple, and usually doesn’t hurt. There is not a single test for all STDs; each STD has a different test. A physician will help you figure out which tests you need. The STD tests can include:

  • Urine routine examination – For urine R/E, you just have to pee into a cup.
  • A cheek swab – It is a test to check for HIV. You have to rub the inside of your cheek (to collect saliva) with a gentle swab.
  • Blood test – The blood sample will be collected from your arm.
  • Genral physical exam – The doctor looks at the genital region to check for rashes, warts, irritation, sores, or discharge.
  • Checking the sores – Using a swab, your nurse or doctor will take a sample of discharge from any blisters or sores you have.

Where can I get tested for STDs?

You can be screened for STIs at a sexual health clinic or your regular doctor’s office. It’s a matter of personal preference where you go.  A variety of STIs are notifiable diseases. This means that the doctor or nurse is legally obliged to report positive outcomes to the government. The government collects information on STIs to support policies in the field of public health. Online tests and at-home tests are also available for STIs, but they are not always accurate.

How much does an STD test cost?

The cost of STD testing depends on what tests you need, where you go, and whether or not you have health insurance.

As a part of the Affordable Care Act (aka Obamacare), many health insurance policies covers STD testing. STD tests can be free or low cost for Medicare and other government services. And depending on your income, some clinics – including many planned parenthood health centers – are offering free or low-cost STD testing.

Whether you have health insurance or not, planned parenthood provides you with the services you need. If you are concerned about the cost, consult your local planned parenthood health center to see if they can lead you to an STD test that suits your budget.

Other STDs / STD - 04/30/2020
hiv-positive-single

HIV Positive? What is HIV Exactly?

You must have heard the name ‘HIV’ at least once in your life, either from the news reporters on the television, reporting about cases of HIV in various areas, or from eavesdropping in someone’s hushed conversation. Either way, the thought of knowing more would have occurred to you. In this article, your curiosity will be satisfied, and by the end of it, you will delve deep on this topic than ever did.

WHAT IS HIV?

Our bodies are marvelous in the way they perform many functions. Would you believe me if I told you that our bodies have armies of their own? Well, believe it or not, all human beings have a defense system inside their bodies. This defense system is commonly called the ‘immune system.’ It protects us by being on the front line against many infections, diseases, and various other health issues.

What would happen if some foreign virus or bacteria get past our defense cells? If something like that happens, we will be immuno-compromised, which means that our immune system has become weak and will not be able to do a good job of protecting us. That is when we catch a disease.

Once we contract the HIV or ‘Human immunodeficiency virus’ from an affected individual, our immune system will start weakening. This virus attacks our defense cells, also known as T-cells. Consequently, our bodies become vulnerable to many diseases and infections. There are many different types of bacteria inside our bodies that will not waste a minute in taking advantage of our immune-compromised body. As a result, the possibility of getting sick significantly increases.

HOW DOES HIV SPREAD?

The mode of transmission of HIV is through the bodily fluids of an infected person, such as blood, semen, pre-seminal fluid, rectal fluids, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. The rectum or anal area, vagina, penis, and mouth have mucous membranes, so; a person can be affected if their mucous membrane or damaged tissue comes in contact with these fluids or when someone is injected with unsterilized needles or syringes. It can be spread through the following ways:

  • The majority of the cases are reported to spread through unprotected intercourse with an HIV infected person.
  • It can also spread by the usage of contaminated needles or syringes.
  • In some cases, a mother can transmit the virus to her child during pregnancy, birth, or through breastfeeding.
  • Swallowing of vaginal fluid or semen of the infected person can cause infection.
  • Getting bitten by a person with HIV can also be a reason for transmission.
  • An HIV positive person with sores or bleeding gums can infect a healthy person through kissing.
  • Receiving unscreened blood transfusions, organ, or tissue transplants can also cause HIV.

Many myths go around regarding the ways HIV can spread, such as through hugging, handshaking, etc. It does not. Keep in mind that they are all just mere myths and not facts. Just be alert and careful instead of harboring unnecessary anxiety.

TESTING FOR HIV

Testing for HIV test takes ten minutes. It can be performed either at home or at the clinic. It requires a few drops of blood to get tested. All sexually active individuals from 16 years to 65 years, should at least be screened once for HIV.

HOW DANGEROUS IS HIV?

 Because of the immune-compromised state, our bodies can be affected by several diseases, infections, and tumors, among which some of the possibilities are:

  • AIDS: ‘Acquired immune deficiency syndrome’ or AIDS is the most advanced stage of HIV in which our bodies continually become weaker and easy targets for infections, tumors, and cancers. These illnesses are called ‘opportunistic infections.’  It can also cause death in some cases.
  • Pneumonia: This is a life-threatening lung infection that is one of the biggest risks for people with HIV infection.
  • Candidiasis: it is a fungal yeast infection that can cause severe effects on lungs, trachea, bronchi, and esophagus.
  • Herpes Simplex: People with HIV can have pneumonia, bronchitis, and esophagitis through herpes.
  • Tuberculosis: This bacterial disease is also one of the many possibilities. It mainly affects the lungs.
  • Septicemia: This is a type of blood infection that may cause severe issues.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

HIV is indeed a scary virus, but it doesn’t matter because, with adequate treatment and firm faith, we can fight and kick it far away.

The primary purpose of HIV treatment is to provide the infected person with medicine that stops HIV from multiplying further to reduce HIV or viral load from the body.  Possible infections and diseases are kept under preventive control. The treatment options are:

  • It can be treated by providing the patient with antiretroviral therapy (ART), which is a medicine that has to be taken regularly. This does not eliminate the virus but reduces the risk of further infection.
  • Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) is also an effective treatment option.
  • In case you are pregnant, your doctor may also screen you for HIV in addition to other sexually transmitted infections. Some antivirals can be given to expectant mothers and newborns.
  • Some people with HIV also take other types of medicines, e.g., antibiotics, every day to prevent HIV-related opportunistic infections.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

Diseases are certainly bound to make us all feel anxious, but if we are alert, cautious, and know the preventive methods, we will be safe and healthy. After all, ‘Prevention is indeed better than cure.’

  • Before having sexual intercourse, we should make sure to get ourselves, and our partner tested for HIV.
  •  Intercourse should not be without protection. Use a condom every time you have vaginal, anal, or oral sex
  • A sexually transmitted disease (STD) can also increase the chances of HIV infection. If diagnosed with STD, get treated as soon as possible.
  • Do not use un-sterilized drug injections, nor share it with others to avoid getting others infected.
  • Do not share razors or toothbrushes with others
  • In case of suspected transmission, the best method for the prevention of HIV in unaffected people is through the usage of pre-exposure prophylaxis(preventive) drugs. It consists of antiviral drug used as a strategy for HIV and/or AIDS prevention. It can stop HIV from taking hold of a healthy body.
HIV / Other STDs - 04/01/2020
what-is-HPV

What is HPV (Human Palillomavirus)?

What is Human papillomavirus infection?

Human papillomavirus or HPV is the most common sexually transmitted viral infection. It can result in skin warts, genital warts and some forms of cancer. There are many types of HPV which can cause different health problems but the types of HPV which are transmitted sexually usually infect the genital area of both men and women including the vulva, vagina, cervix, rectum, anus, penis and scrotum.

How do you get infected with HPV?

HPV can easily be transmitted via sexual skin-to-skin contact with an infected individual. So you can get infected if your mouth or genitals touch the genitals of someone who is already infected. This usually happens as a consequence of oral, vaginal and anal sex. People with multiple sexual partners are more susceptible to HPV. Thus, HPV can be transmitted even without sexual intercourse taking place. Since HPV is the most common STD (Sexually transmitted disease), it is estimated that most sexually active individuals contract HPV at some point in their lives. Occasionally, infected individuals are asymptomatic because the virus remains dormant which amplifies the chance of spreading it to their sexual partners.

What are the symptoms of HPV?

Often, HPV infected individuals don’t show any symptoms and are visibly healthy. But sometimes, HPV tends to cause serious health problems. These include genital warts and some forms of cancer.

People with a long-lasting HPV infection are at a greater risk of developing fatal health issues. High-risk HPV infections include:

  • Cancer of the cervix (cervical cancer) or vagina (vaginal cancer) in women and cancer of the penis (penile cancer) in men caused by an infection in the genitals.
  • An HPV infection around the anus can cause anal cancer in both men and women.
  • Oral cancers in men and women due to infection in the mouth and throat.

These medical conditions usually manifest themselves years after the person is first infected.

How is HPV treated/ Is HPV curable?

There is no available treatment for an HPV infection. But you can consult a doctor for treatment options pertaining to serious health issues arising from the infection. There’s no cure for HPV, but certain precautionary measures can keep you safe and healthy. As they say, “Prevention is better than cure.” Vaccines play a pivotal role in the prevention of the types of HPV infections that can cause cervical and vaginal cancer in women. These HPV vaccines are also really potent against infections that cause genital warts. For unvaccinated individuals who have contracted high-risk types of HPV that can eventually lead to cancer, PAP tests and/or HPV tests is the optimal way to prevent cervical cancer.

PAP-SMEAR & HPV TESTS

A Pap test sometimes called a Pap smear is the most common technique used to detect an HPV infection. A Pap test is used to find cell changes or abnormal cells in the cervix. Cells collected from the cervical lining are sent to a lab and looked at under a microscope to check for abnormalities. The Pap test is very effective in finding cancer cells and cells that may eventually become cancerous.

HPV is a virus that can cause changes in the cells lining the cervix. The HPV test is designed to detect the virus instead of changes in the cells. An HPV test is usually done at the same time as the Pap test, this is referred to as co-testing. Both these testing techniques are only effective for cervical abnormalities in women caused by the HPV. Unfortunately, there is no approved HPV test for men at this time which is why physical examination is the only way to detect HPV infections of the genitalia in men.

How can I make sure I don’t get or spread HPV?

  • VACCINE:

Vaccines also called vaccinations or immunizations prepare the body to fight against germs that cause infections. The HPV vaccine can help prevent an HPV infection. Mostly, an HPV infection of the genitals, mouth and throat doesn’t develop into cancer, but it is still tough to predict if one can get cancer from an HPV infection. Thus, it is imperative to vaccinate yourself as a preventative measure.

There are 3 different types of HPV vaccines, but the availability of each type depends on where you live. The HPV vaccine is given in a series of shots and the dosage for the shots depends on the individual’s age:

  • For people ages 9-14, you get 2 HPV shots. The second shot is given 6 months after the first one.
  • For people ages 15 and older, you get 3 separate HPV shots over the course of 6 months.

Anyone between the age of 9 to 26 can get the HPV vaccine to protect against genital warts and/or different types of HPV infections that can cause cancer. It’s highly recommended for children of age 11-12 to get vaccinated so they’re immunized years before they become sexually active. Pregnant women are discouraged from getting the HPV vaccine. The HPV vaccine can’t cure an HPV infection that a person already has. That’s why it’s recommended to get vaccinated while you are still a virgin. But regardless of your age or sexual history, talk with your doctor to find out if the HPV vaccine could still benefit you.

Several researches have confirmed the safety of the HPV vaccine. The most common side effects include redness, swelling or soreness where the shot was given. To make sure that you don’t experience these side effects, the doctor/nurse will instruct you to stay on the examination table for a few minutes after the shot.

The vaccine is really effective at preventing the types of HPV infections that can cause cervical or vaginal cancer in women and genital warts in both men and women. It might also lower the risk of other types of cancer. Although, the vaccine is not perfect it is still your best shot at preventing an HPV infection.

Minimizing the spread of HPV

Not having sexual intercourse can help avoid skin-to-skin contact. Also, using condoms and/or other contraceptives can lower the risk of transmission to a certain extent.

HPV / Other STDs - 03/30/2020

Herpes Support Groups

A few we've picked for

Herpes Support Groups

ask-the-expert-herpes

AskExpertsNow.com

Get Your Questions Answered by Nationally Known Experts

Ask the Experts is a service of the American Sexual Health Association (ASHA). It gives you access to medical experts who specialize in HPV, herpes, HIV, general STIs and sexual health. This valuable service is offered for a fee of $25 per question, with 2 follow up questions allowed after the original response from one of their experts. 
Visit Ask the Experts
west-over-heights-terri

WestOverHeights.com

Herpes Questions & Answers by Terri Warren, ANP

Terri Warren is there to respond to concerns and questions you might have about genital herpes and your own personal situation. For the past 30 years, genital herpes has been her special area of interest and they have conducted many, many research studies at their clinic on various aspects of genital herpes, so she knows the subject well, and can help you sort out issues that you might have.
Go Ask Terri Warren
ashasexualhealth

AshaSexualHealth.org

American Sex Health Association in New York

ASHA was founded in 1914 in New York City, formed out of early 20th century social reform movements focused on fighting sexually transmitted infections (known then as venereal disease, or VD) and prostitution. Now, more than 100 years after its creation, ASHA remains America’s nonprofit authority for sexual health information.

Go ASHA
Herpes Communities - 03/26/2020
positive-singles-herpes-dating

PositiveSingles Review (2023) – Is This Herpes Dating Site Worth It?

Positive Singles is one of the largest online communities for individuals living with herpes and other STDs, with an estimated number of over 1.5 million users. It’s a virtual support system built around the idea of helping affected individuals come across like-minded people, make new friends, find a potential partner, and remove the taboo surrounding these diseases.

As an exclusive community for people living with herpes and other Sexually-transmitted Diseases (STDs), it aims to create a thriving environment to develop a camaraderie between the users where they can share their experiences living with STDs. It’s not just a one-trick pony. The website can serve as a dating site for individuals looking for relationships, as a counseling medium to help them with their issues combating these diseases or as a simple platform to extract medical information from.

How does it work?

The online dating site offers several ways to connect and interact with other users, the website’s algorithm can be used to receive matches in terms of compatibility, similarities and even opposite traits within the online database of users. From each profile, you can also view similar profiles helping you navigate towards the best match for you.

For ensuring a unique and personalized experience, the website allows users to a 15-question profile section where they can list their answers and also post questions that they’d like their matches to answer. Additional features include personalized dating coaches and profile verification etc.

Although PositiveSingles is a website created to target individuals with STDs find life-partners primarily, it doesn’t pose any restrictions for people looking for pen-pals, friends, or merely online buddies they can chat with and reach out for support. Additionally, factors like age, location, and sexual orientation are also not considered hindrances for anyone looking to sign-up on the website.

Ease of use (Accessibility)

The interface is aesthetically appealing, and the content is arranged systematically, which encourages users to navigate through the website and explore the countless options provided by the developers. Most of the functions are present on the homepage as widgets helping new users to familiarize themselves with the setup.

Sign-up & Log-in process

The registration process is fairly simple, and you have to fill out a search form on the initial page and then select “find my matches.” The form then requires you to select your sexual orientation and choose personal details you’d wish to have in your desired match including preferred age range, country and “existing” condition (STDs)

The registration process continues on the next page, where the server requires you to create a profile by inserting your name, creating a username and a password, confirming your “existing” condition (STDs). It also provides the option to add personalized information to search for other profiles that might interest you.

Safety & Security

Safety & Security is the top priority for the creators, understanding the sensitive nature of the website and the trust that the customers put into the online service, the clients must have the assurance that their personal information is not disclosed to third parties without the client’s permission. Therefore, PositiveSingles uses secure server software (SSL) to provide reliable financial transactions for registered members, which encrypts all personal information and financial information as it travels over the Internet and secures this information on its servers in encrypted form.

Special Features

The website provides a “Let’s meet” feature where you are shown different profiles, and you have the option to swipe left or right. Swiping right means you like the other profile, whereas swiping left means you don’t. A mutual match is obtained when both the parties swipe right. This concept is loosely based on the working mechanism of another popular dating site, TINDER.

Another premium feature offered by PositiveSingles is the “First date idea,” where users are encouraged to describe their ideal first date and also provide insights into their personalities. This helps the website create a database of profiles with similar liking and disliking, which are displayed on a separate forum page. The users then have the option to browse through dozens of profiles and connect with those they think are the perfect match for them.

Real-time Customer Reviews

“It was a great experience using PositiveSingles, and I met the love of my life on this site after being discouraged with having herpes. I found someone who had herpes too without having to go through the struggle of telling them about it because they already knew.

It was great, and I met my boyfriend soon to be fiancé from the site… we have been together for two years now, and it was easier than meeting someone on the street because it is hard going back into the dating circuit with herpes. Still, with PositiveSingles, the whole experience has been worthwhile.”

Membership cost

Now that we’ve discussed the operational aspects of the website. Let’s look at the cost to sign-up as members. The users have an option to register as free members, but their accessibility of the site will be limited. To enjoy the more premium features, the users have to purchase a monthly membership, which starts from $29.95/month. You can save up to 60% if you purchase several months.

Conclusion

Positive Singles is the oringal herpes and STDs dating site with more than 1.5 million satisfied members. This Silicon Valley firm has been in the online dating business for over 19 years which makes us believe it worth to try. If you are looking for positive singles like you, this is a good site to go.

Visit PositiveSingles.com
Herpes Dating - 03/26/2020

Herpes Dating Sites You Can Trust

A few we've picked for

Herpes Dating Sites You Can Trust

positive-singles-herpes-dating-sites

PositiveSingles.com

largest herpes & std community since 2001

Positive Singles is the oringinal herpes and STD dating site which was launched in 2001. With more than 1.7 millon users, the site is the largest STD site providing blogs, herpes forums, support, online chat rooms, and even live dating advisors. 

Besides herpes dating, Positive Singles also provides opportunities with other singles living with HPV,HSV, HIV, Hepatitis and other STDs. You won’t feel alone any more once you register the site, because the team has done everthing they could to provide a safe and comfortable community to positive singles.

Read Positive Singels Review
Herpes Communities - 03/02/2020

Herpes Q&A Sites – Professional Suggestions

A few we've picked for

Herpes Q&A Sites

health_line_review

Healthline.com

medical information and health advice you can trust

Healthline is the fastest growing medical information site with over 200 millon visitors every month. They have a team of professionals providing the latest medical suggestions.

For herpes basic knowledges, check this comprehensive herpes guide.

medical_news_today

MedicalNewsToday.com

the latest news in medical research

Check The latest herpes news on MedicalNewsToday.com.

MedicalNewsToday dive into medical research of the past and present, and break it down to give people the clear-cut facts. It's editors and writers create more than 250 pieces of content every month. They are trying to unravel the complexities of health information and make it easy to understand.

genital_herpes_women

WomensHealth.gov

OWH - the office on women's health

OWH aims to provide national leadership and coordination to improve the health of women and girls through policy, education, and innovative programs.

Check this long list of Genital Herpes FAQ on Womenshealth.com

cdc_herpes

CDC.gov

centers for disease control and prevention

CDC is one of the major operating components of the Department of Health and Human Services. CDC works 24/7 to protect America from health, safety and security threats, both foreign and in the U.S.

Checking CDC's Fact Sheet, Herpes Statistics, Herpes Treatment articles on herpes. 

Herpes Communities - 02/27/2020
herpes-antiviral-drugs

Herpes Ongoing Research: Pritelivir, a New Treatment Option?

 

Although there are various treatment options available for herpes and they work well, medicine is an ever-changing science, and scientists and researchers experiment with novel drugs to provide more benefits to the patients and lessen the disease burden in the society. One such drug is Pritelivir.

The use of pritelivir under investigation for the treatment of herpes. Pritelivir is an inhibitor of the HSV-2 helicase-primase complex and acts through a different mechanism when compared to already available antiviral drugs available for herpes in the market (e.g., acyclovir, valacyclovir).

However, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has put a hold on the clinical development of pritelivir because of unexplained skin (hair loss, dry crusty skin) and blood (anemia) toxicities in monkeys, despite positive findings in two studies. In a clinical study, pritelivir was associated with significantly less viral shedding compared with valacyclovir. Moreover, patients receiving pritelivir had fewer days with genital lesions. However, the drug is still under research and may or may not be available for use in the future, depending on its safety and efficacy.

 

Vaccine Development

Several therapeutic vaccine trials have been carried out to “boost” natural immunity in persons with a known history of HSV-2 infection to reduce the risk of recurrent infection. A clinical trial of the gD2/alum vaccine showed that immunization of HSV-2 seropositive persons with a history of genital herpes reduced the number of recurrences (0.42 per month in vaccines versus 0.55 in placebo recipients) [1].

However, two other studies did not demonstrate any clinical benefit [2,3]. Several therapeutic HSV-2 vaccine trials are currently under investigation, and two vaccines have shown limited efficacy in reducing viral shedding following immunization. Additional research studies of these vaccines to optimize the dose, dosing schedule and the effect on recurrences are underway.

 

Circumcision Status

Circumcision has been affiliated with a decreased risk of acquisition of some infectious agents, for instance, HIV. A clinical trial of circumcision in Uganda (that was aimed at decreasing HIV transmission) showed a 28 percent reduction in HSV-2 incidence among study participants in the arm that had circumcision. [4].

 

Tenofovir

A variety of topical and oral agents are currently under investigation for the prevention of herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV-2) acquisition and shedding of virus [5]. For example, tenofovir, when used for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to an HSV-2 negative patient, may also reduce the risk of acquiring HSV-2.

The effect of vaginally administered tenofovir gel on acquiring HSV-2 infection was evaluated in a study of HSV-2- negative women from South Africa who participated in a clinical trial designed to assess the efficacy of this drug in reducing the acquisition of HIV infection [6].

The incidence of HSV-2 infection was notably decreased in the group that received tenofovir gel compared with the group that received just a placebo drug. However, we cannot confidently say if tenofovir gel has a role in decreasing viral shedding among women with HSV-2 infection.

In a randomized study of 64 immunocompetent women with symptomatic HSV-2 infection, tenofovir vaginal gel did not remarkably reduce viral shedding or the number of days with genital lesions [7]. Therefore, further studies are warranted before these agents can be recommended for HSV-2 prevention in routine care.

 

REFERENCES

  1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?otool=flumrlib&term=7911177
  2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?otool=flumrlib&term=9359709
  3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?otool=flumrlib&term=16213066
  4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?otool=flumrlib&term=16581731
  5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?otool=flumrlib&term=17877886
  6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?otool=flumrlib&term=26244306
  7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?otool=flumrlib&term=26044291
Herpes News / Living with Herpes - 02/20/2020
herpes-drugs

Having Both Genital Herpes and HIV? Here are the Treatments

 

Since both the infections are sexually transmitted, having similar risk factors, the prevalence of herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 2 infections in HIV-infected patients is high (50 to 90 percent), and recurrent infections can be more frequent, severe, and of longer duration than in HIV-seronegative patient populations.

Antiviral treatment of first-episode HSV-2 infection certainly reduces the disease duration but does not eliminate the hidden, inactive virus, which can subsequently reactivate. Clinical HSV recurrences are a common problem among HIV-infected patients, particularly those with advanced immunosuppression ( patients with deficient white blood cells that give immunity to the body).

 

Antiviral Medications

The drug class nucleoside analogs (acyclovir, famciclovir, and valacyclovir) have well-established safety and efficacy for the treatment of genita7 ybl HSV infections in HIV-infected patients; these drugs are generally well tolerated at the presently recommended doses.

Each of the recommended agents has been showed to decrease pain, duration of sores, and viral shedding with comparable efficacy and safety among HIV-seronegative patients with primary and recurrent HSV-2 infection. As the efficiency appears to be almost similar among all of these antiviral agents, the selection of any one drug (e.g., acyclovir, famciclovir, or valacyclovir) should be decided based on cost, formulary considerations, and frequency of dosing for patient convenience.

 

Main Treatment Priciples

The principles of treatment of HSV-2 in HIV-infected persons are similar to those for HIV-uninfected persons. The antiviral therapy is recommended for all patients with first-episode genital HSV infection. However, the clinicians should be aware that the treatment of HSV-related disease in the HIV-infected host should continue until all lesions have completely healed. Also, some patients may even require hospitalization depending on disease severity, although most cases can be managed by oral medications.

 

The HSV antiviral therapy in HIV-infected patients with clinical recurrences of HSV-2 infection compared takes precedence over no intervention at all. Management options of recurrent disease include episodic therapy (e.g., self-administration of antiviral drugs for individual outbreaks as they arise) or suppressive therapy (daily use of antiviral medications for long-term maintenance).

The recommended doses of antiviral treatment are higher for both suppressive and episodic therapy for HSV recurrences in HIV-infected patients as compared to those in HIV-seronegative patients. In the HIV-infected patient with HSV ulcerative disease, treatment should continue for a minimum of five days or until lesion resolution.

Although most of the patients can be treated with oral regimens, patients with severe ulcerative disease or brain involvement may require intravenous therapy initially with acyclovir.

 

Immune Reconstitution Syndrome

The initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV-infected patients with advanced immunosuppression can lead to a paradoxical worsening of underlying HSV infection. Therefore, clinicians may sometimes prescribe coadministration of antiretroviral therapy for HIV and suppressive HSV antiviral therapy.

Living with Herpes / Other STDs - 02/20/2020
herpes-depression

Coping with Herpes: How to Live with Herpes?

Herpes is a painful condition, and symptoms typically include pain in or around the vagina or penis with pain. It may be more noticeable when urinating or performing intercourse between sexual partners which severely affects the relationship later between two partners and causes depression due to its recurring nature leaving them with poor sexual quality, psychological issues related to HSV, feelings of shame, embarrassment, anxiety, or depression.

Coping with Herpes Diagnosis

A national study conducted in 2012 found that adults infected with HSV-2 were twice as likely to be depressed as adults who are not having it. Upon receiving a diagnosis of genital herpes, it is not surprising that people feel isolated with mixed feelings of anger, frustration, and then sadness.

They may not feel comfortable sharing these feelings with their partner or any close friends. They may become fixed on figuring out who passed the infection on to her. Feeling as though life is over and that enjoying a healthy sex life will never happen again creates further sadness and guilt.

Once these feelings of embarrassment pass and the emotional side of herpes has been dealt with, life with herpes will not seem quite as charmless. A little mindfulness regarding diagnosis and dealing with depression can help living with herpes a lot easier.

Dealing with herpes depression?

Remember that herpes is a prevalent condition that affects millions of people. You are not alone in your diagnosis, and many others are struggling with the same emotions. Once you realize how prevalent this condition is, it will feel less alienating, and you can begin to accept it.

You first need to embrace self-acceptance. It is a process that may take time, but one that can help you rein in feelings of depression you may be struggling with after knowing the disease. Herpes is not that big, but depression is a serious deal if you’re feeling it!

How to Overcome your depression and Mental Health?

Mental health of a patient badly suffers when it hears the word “Herpetic” and is often further complicated by the unfortunate stigma that is attached to the stress of having a “Sexually transmitted Disease.”

The First important thing to realize and admit that You are physically mentally and emotionally DEPRESSED!!!

Sometimes you feel like you will require psychological support to get over these health issues. The sooner you do this, the sooner you can get on with your life. Get help if you’re upset, depressed, or having suicidal thoughts. And call someone! Your close friend, any family member, or the one you feel most comfortable sharing this. If you’re feeling depressive all the time, life can’t go on with this diagnosis. Remember that symptoms of herpes can be controlled, thanks to antivirals available in the market. There may be some days when your condition does not allow you to have sexual intimacy, try to enjoy different things in that time, do not perform sex if it fives your pain and tell your partner about your symptoms.

If you feel like down in the dumps, get counseling immediately from a proper health advisory, or join a Herpes Support Groups on different platforms. By connecting to other people who are struggling with herpes diagnosis, just like you, you’ll quickly find out that you are not alone and able to share your inner feelings and fight with the fears and depression around you, knowing that you are not alone for the rest of your life.

Patient can benefit from treatment for it, which may include counseling, medications, or self-help therapies. It is imperative to receive herpes treatment not just for your mental well being but also to prevent further outbreaks of herpes, as depression and anxiety can disturb your immune system.

How to open up to your partner?

Of course, being open and telling a partner is extremely stressful, but not disclosing, it can be even worse. There is a chance you may be rejected if your partner finds out or that you may spread the infection to other partners. However, in a stable relationship, the two will find a way to learn about herpes, understands each other, and begin coping with herpes in a positive light. Again, it’s not a terminal condition. It is an infection that comes and goes more as a nuisance than any other disease.

Tell your partner what’s going on, ask your doctor how to avoid spreading it, and get support. If you find that it’s hard to get past feeling betrayed or down about the situation, you may want to talk with a counselor who can help you both to handle those emotions and talk about the concerns you may have regarding health, sex life, and relationship. And the outcomes of this disease if you wanted to get pregnant and transmission in newborn.

Cope With Depression / Living with Herpes - 02/19/2020

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