The latest headlines of sexual harassment in the workplace and otherwise, the #metoo movement, and men of influence falling into disgrace after sexually inappropriate behavior have lead to many conversations in our society. What is “normal” sexual contact? What is a baseline amount of sex? What is allowed to be pursued sexually in a relationship, casual or otherwise? For many years, sex has been viewed as recreational and fun and not necessarily connected to any commitment. Sex is not the problem. Society’s attitude toward sex is more problematic.

 “The idea that pursuing one’s sexual imperatives should take place over workplace rules, lines of power or even just appropriate social behavior is what allows predators to justify sexual harassment and assault. And it encourages the not-predators to value their desires above those of others.”
(Washington Post, “Let’s Rethink Sex”)

So, what does this mean? The “sex-above-all ethic” has lead to the reduction of virtues of prudence, temperance, respect and even love. Perhaps sex has a deeper significance than momentary pleasure or recreation. Respect and love of one’s partner leads to commitment. With commitment comes facing unintended consequences such as an unplanned pregnancy together. It also leads to the reduction of STI (sexually transmitted infections) diagnoses/ treatments or facing an abortion decision in an unplanned pregnancy without a partner a reality. Children are brought into committed relationships and less likely to be fatherless. Security within the relationship builds a strong tie between partners and their children, building a strong family unit.

Unfortunately, marriage is declining in popularity. Many people have a fear of commitment. Sex is readily available and “cheap.” Men can readily find sex and women ask little in return. Porn is easily accessible, and women have to compete with virtual encounters. With the rise of the use of birth control, there is “easy sex without consequences.” (Wall Street Journal, “Cheap Sex and the Decline of Marriage.”)

For more insights on this topic of sex and consequences, a recent article from the Weekly Standard, quoting the Washington Post has some great insights. Read the entire article here: Washington Post: Conservatives Are Right About Sex.

When it comes to issues of sexual behavior, it can be helpful to have someone outside of your close circle to discuss thoughts and feelings with. Someone who can be both knowledgeable AND trust-worthy, all in a non-judgmental atmosphere.

Keep us on your short list. We can be that friend that you talk to when you don’t feel you can talk to anyone else. No pressure. No agenda. Just a helpful, compassionate ear.

It is important to know how to prevent STD’s (sexually transmitted diseases, also known commonly as STI’s – sexually transmitted infections).

But what about long-term effects? If they are treated immediately, are you “out of the woods?” Are there long-term effects that you should know about?

The short answer is: yes. There are long-term effects of many STD’s. And it’s important that you have all the facts that you need.

Chlamydia
First, the most common bacterial STD in the United States is Chlamydia (click the link to read more about it on our blog). This infection can be virtually symptom-free in up to 85% women; however, the cervix is the most likely to be affected by this bacteria. Symptoms include change in discharge, bleeding after sex, and bleeding outside of monthly cycle. The Chlamydia test is a routine one, and is offered through most doctor’s offices, as well as here at Advice and Aid. Chlamydia can cause a serious infection called pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which may lead to sepsis, shock, abscess, and even death. PID can lead to scarring of the Fallopian tubes, which could increase the risk of infertility and ectopic pregnancy (baby implanting in the tubes/ovary instead of the uterus). Chlamydia can also cause an eye infection in your baby if you are infected at delivery.

Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is another common bacterial STD. Again, the cervix is the most commonly affected area. Symptoms are similar to Chlamydia – bleeding, change in discharge, itching, abdominal pain. Gonorrhea is also associated with PID. Gonorrhea may also lead to Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome, a chronic liver disease. Gonorrhea can also cause an eye infection in your baby; babies receive ointment in their eyes at the time of birth to prevent this infection.

HPV
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common STD in the US, with 20 million men and women affected. This is the cause of genital warts. However, HPV leads to cervical changes that may cause cancer. Pap smears check the cervix for these precancerous changes. In the long term, HPV can lead to several different types of cancers.

Herpes
Herpes simplex is another common viral STD. Both type 1 and type 2 can cause genital herpes. It is estimated that 16% of people aged 14-49 are infected. Herpes leads to lifelong infection of painful outbreaks. It is highly contagious, and most people don’t know they have it until their first outbreak. This requires antiviral medications for life. Babies born to mothers with active lesions are born with lesions all over their body, brain infections, and blindness.

Syphilis
Syphilis is caused by bacteria as well. A common symptom of syphilis could be an open, painless sore that is often mistaken as a seemingly harmless bump. This disease, without treatment, can cause rashes, heart disease, and brain infections. Babies born to these mothers are usually deaf, have teeth malformations, and brain malfunction. This disease is treated with penicillin.

These are just a few of the most common STD’s. Most of these are treatable, but their possible long-term effects can be extremely severe, both to you and to possible future pregnancies. It’s important that you have all of the facts before you decide to have sex. One moment of passion could lead to a lifetime of unintended consequences.

Make sure your choices are fully informed before you make them.

— Information taken from UpToDate, an evidence based medical database.

If you (or someone you know) suspects that you might have contracted an STD, you should be tested immediately.

Most doctor’s offices can provide testing, as well as here at Advice & Aid.  Here, you can find compassionate, knowledgeable staff that will not only provide testing at no cost to you, but can offer the support and direction that you need. It all takes place in a confidential and helpful setting, allowing you to get the answers that you need.

Don’t put it off . . . schedule a confidential, free testing today. Information is your greatest ally.

You need to know!

What exactly is a STD (also referred to as STI – sexually transmitted infection)?
An STD/STI is an infection passed from person to person through any sexual contact. The infection occurs when bacteria, virus or parasite grows on or in your body. Some STDs/STIs can be cured, and others cannot. For those that cannot be cured, there are medicines to manage symptoms.

Anyone may contract a STD/STI through sexual contact. Over 20 million people are infected each year. These infections affect people from all backgrounds and socio-economic groups. The largest age group for new infections are those aged 15-24. 

Women often have more serious health problems from STDs/STIs than men. Chlamydia and Gonorrhea are the most common STIs, and if left untreated, the risk of chronic pelvic pain or ectopic pregnancy increase. Infertility is also a possibility if the STI is left untreated.

It is important to be tested, and if positive, to be treated.

Any sexual partners should also be tested and/or treated to prevent re-infection.

Sources:
www.womenshealth.gov
www.cdc.gov

Additional articles from Advice & Aid:
So You Think You Know All About STD?
STD. . . It Might Hang Around Much Longer Than You Know!

If you (or someone you know) suspects that you might have contracted an STD, you should be tested immediately.

Most doctors’ offices can provide testing, as well as here at Advice & Aid.  Here, you can find compassionate, knowledgeable staff that will not only provide testing for both you and your partner at no cost to you, but can offer the support and direction that you need. It all takes place in a confidential and helpful setting, allowing you to get the answers that you need.

Don’t put it off . . . schedule a confidential, free testing today. Information is your greatest ally.

You need to know!

Written by Advice & Aid Nurse Andrea, RN, BSN

Trichomoniasis (aka “Trich”) is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a protozoan parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. Most people do not experience any symptoms. It is the most common and most curable STI, but is more common in women than men, and older women are more likely to be infected than younger women. In fact, it is estimated over 3.7 million people are infected with Trich, but only 30% will have symptoms.

Trichomoniasis (Trich) is passed from infected person to an uninfected person during sex. The most commonly affected parts of the body are in the lower genital tract. It is usually transmitted in the genital areas, and not in other parts of the body such as hands or mouth. Infected people without symptoms can still pass Trich to others.

Over 70% of those infected with Trichomoniasis (Trich) do not show any symptoms. Those that do have symptoms range from mild irritation to severe inflammation that may appear 5 to 28 days from exposure (infection). Symptoms may also come and go. Men may experience itching or irritation, burning with urination or ejaculation, or even have discharge. Women may have itching, burning, redness or soreness of genitals, discomfort with urination, or discharge with unusual smell that may appear to be clear, white, yellow or green in color.  Having sex while infected with Trich can feel unpleasant.

Without treatment, infection may last months or even years. While infected with Trichomoniasis (Trich), the risk of contracting an additional STI  or spreading other STIs to a partner is increased. A pregnant woman infected with Trich is more likely to have her baby preterm or to have a baby with low birth weight (less than 5.5 lbs).

Trichomoniasis cannot be diagnosed through symptoms alone. A healthcare provider must perform a physical exam and lab test to confirm the infection. A single dose of a prescription antibiotic (such as metronidazole or tinidazole) is recommended for treatment, and can be taken by pregnant women as well. It is not recommended to drink alcohol within 24 hours of taking the medication due to unpleasant side effects. Trichomoniasis may be contracted again even if treated. Approximately 1 in 5 people are infected again within 3 months after treatment. It is important to wait to have sex after being treated until symptoms resolve, which may take about 1 week. If symptoms return, having a follow up exam and lab test is recommended.

The only complete method to prevent STIs such as Trichomoniasis (Trich) is to abstain from sex, or to be in a monogamous committed relationship. Latex condoms can reduce the risk of transmission of STIs but they do not cover all areas that could infect another person.

For more information, visit:
CDC
Mayo Clinic

If you (or someone you know) suspects that you might have contracted and STD, you should contact your doctor immediately for an appointment.

However, if you are not ready to talk to a doctor, it could be helpful to discuss your symptoms, concerns and options in a confidential and helpful setting with someone who has answers. Feel free to contacts us at 913.962.0200 to speak with someone who can help you determine your next steps. Our staff is compassionate, knowledgeable and can offer the support and direction that you need.

Additional education articles on sexually transmitted diseases:
The Unfortunate Case Of Bacterial Vaginosis
What You Need To Know Now About HPV
Avoiding an Embarrassing Condition
What You Really Need to Know About Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea, also commonly known as “the clap,” may affect any man or woman that is sexually active. The infection may occur in the genitals, rectum or throat.  It is a very common sexually transmitted infection (STI), especially in sexually active men and women between the ages of 15 to 24.  This infection may be spread through any type of sex with an affected person.  Pregnant women with gonorrhea can pass the infection to the baby. The baby may contract the infection during the delivery, and this can cause serious health issues for the infant.

Men with gonorrhea may experience a burning sensation with urination; a white, yellow or green discharge; and/or painful or swollen testicles. Women may not experience any symptoms if infected with gonorrhea. However, women may also experience mild symptoms that could be easily mistaken for a bladder or vaginal infection. They may experience painful or burning sensation with urination, increased vaginal discharge, or vaginal bleeding between periods. Rectal infections from gonorrhea may not have any symptoms, or the person affected may have discharge, itching, soreness, bleeding, or painful bowel movements. Anyone experiencing the above symptoms should be examined by a health care provider, including their sexual partner(s), so everyone may be treated to prevent further infection or complications.

Testing for gonorrhea may be performed using a urine test, or a swab may be used. Once a diagnosis has been determined, and treatment is needed for the infection, gonorrhea may be cured with the right medication. It is very important to take all medications as prescribed and do not share any medications with others. The right medication will cure the infection but not undo any permanent damage caused by the infection. Some gonorrhea strains are more drug resistant than others. If symptoms persist after the first few days of treatment, you should return to your health care provider for further examination.

Sexual partners also need to be treated in order to prevent a reoccurrence of the gonorrhea infection. It is very important to wait at least seven days after finishing treatment for the infection prior to engaging in sex again with your partner.  This will prevent reoccurrence of the STI with your current partner or giving gonorrhea to a new partner. Gonorrhea may be contracted again despite past treatment for the infection if engaged in sex with an infected partner.

Women without any symptoms at all are still at risk for serious complications. Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) may occur if gonorrhea is not diagnosed or is left untreated. Women may experience the formation of scar tissue that could block the fallopian tubes, increase the likelihood of ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the womb), infertility, or long-term pelvic or abdominal pain. Men may experience a painful condition that causes swelling of the testicles, causing the inability to become a father. In rare instances, untreated gonorrhea can spread to an infected person’s blood or joints, or may increase the chances of getting HIV or giving HIV to a partner.

The only way to totally prevent gonorrhea is to not have any type of sex. Also, when in a long-term monogamous sexual relationship with your partner, your risks will be greatly reduced. The use of latex condoms used in the correct manner every time engaged in sex will also greatly reduce the likelihood of contracting a STI.

If you are sexually active, it is important to be open and honest with your health care provider about whether you should be tested for a STI. Men who are gay or bisexual, and have engaged in sex with another man, should be tested every year. Women who are sexually active under the age of 25, or women who have new or multiple sex partners, should also be tested yearly.

For more information, visit www.cdc.gov or www.mayoclinic.org.

If you (or someone you know) suspects that you might have contracted and STD, you should contact your doctor immediately for an appointment.

However, if you are not ready to talk to a doctor, it could be helpful to discuss your symptoms, concerns and options in a confidential and helpful setting with someone who has answers. Feel free to contacts us at 913.962.0200 to speak with someone who can help you determine your next steps. Our staff is compassionate, knowledgeable and can offer the support and direction that you need.

At Advice & Aid, we encourage everyone to practice abstinence outside of marriage, and fidelity inside of marriage.  Advice & Aid does not provide or prescribe birth control.

Additional education articles on sexually transmitted diseases:
The Unfortunate Case Of Bacterial Vaginosis
What You Need To Know Now About HPV