It is a common sexual health concern to protect oneself from the dangers of contracting sexually transmitted diseases such as the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Statistics show that there is a growing prevalence in the demographic growth of HIV in various countries and affecting even the younger generations. HIV has become a primary health concern even for parents of the younger population who are sexually active with their partner. There are important factors that one needs to understand in order to help avoid the dangers of STD and HIV.
Individuals at risk of STD and HIV
While the disease is acquired through sexual contact, it does not preclude the risks of getting infected with the virus through sharing needles that were used by an HIV compromised individual. Teens are often prone to this kind of HIV transmission when they share common injections when taking drugs, getting a tattoo, piercing on the body and other forms of body arts involving needles. As the needle is inserted in the body, the virus could easily spread through the blood. Sexually active individuals are likewise at risk for HIV and the risk increases with multiple partners. The virus is easily transmitted through fluids that are ejected from the body during physical contact. Unprotected sexual activity increases the risk of acquiring the HIV. Even a fetus could be infected by an HIV compromised pregnant woman. The baby’s risk for infection is reduced through a cesarean delivery and breastfeeding to strengthen the baby’s immunity against the virus.
Why you should get tested for HIV and STD
An HIV is a disease that has no cure. The best measure against treating the condition is prevention. However, once you have acquired the disease, it is not possible that the symptoms manifest immediately. It may take at least a year before a person will experience signs that would indicate the presence of the disease in their system. That is why a screening test would be essential in order to detect HIV in its early stage. A person who frequently engages in unprotected sex should obtain regular screening for HIV. This involves the identification of antibodies that fight the virus. It usually takes at least 2 weeks to 6 months before these antibodies build up to an identifiable quantity of test results. Individuals for STD have a higher chance of getting treatment once the condition is treated at the early stage, making early detection crucial in most instances. The screening test will help prevent the possible spread of the disease to others too.
Many STD and HIV affected individuals refuse to obtain treatment because of the stigma that they may have because of their condition. There are health centers and medical facilities that provide assistance to these individuals that protect their identity while receiving treatment for their condition. What is essential is to obtain an immediate diagnosis in order to determine the most appropriate treatment to give to an STD and HIV patient in order to prevent the progression of their condition.