The value of physical health is often emphasized. Yet, mental, emotional and sexual health don’t get that much attention. As they are equally important to us, we want to address these topics on our blog as well. In the context of September as Sexual Health Awareness month, we’d like to answer some questions. We will also point out how you can get tested.
Sponsored by www.stdcheck.com
What are STDs and why should I care?
STD is short for sexually transmitted disease. These are infections that are usually spread by sexual activity. However, they can also be transmitted to an infant before or during childbirth. The infections can be of bacterial, viral, parasitic or fungal nature.
As you notice, this topic is not vegan or travel specific, but it concerns us all. Because due to the frequent absence of initial symptoms, there’s a greater risk of passing the disease on to others. Without the open conversation around safe sex, STDs can spread easily. That’s why normalizing and destigmatizing this topic is crucial.
Which tests are available?
At STDcheck.com, you can choose between different check-ups. They offer 100% confidential STD analysis in the United States. The testing itself only takes 5 minutes and you’ll receive the results in 1 or 2 days.
If you are worried about a single infection, individual tests are the way to go. Also in case you want to test again to see if an existing infection could be cured after the treatment. To test for the most common bacterial and viral STDs in the USA, opt for the comprehensive 10 Test Panel.
To detect an HIV infection as early as 6 days after exposure, use the HIV RNA Early Detection Test. If taken 9 to 11 days post exposure, it’s conclusive. The standard HIV test is a 4th Generation HIV 1 & 2 Antibody/Antigen test. It can detect HIV as early as 2 to 3 weeks after exposure.
These tests are available:
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- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Hepatitis C
- HIV 1 & 2 Antibody
- Syphilis
- Herpes I
- Herpes II
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- 10 Test Panel: all above, optional HIV RNA Early Detection
- Chlamydia & Gonorrhea
- HIV RNA Early Detection
How can I get tested?
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Order STD testing
Select your test and order it online or by phone. For this, choose your STD test center and enter patient details as well as payment information.
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Visit test center
After you have placed your order, you can now visit the test center you chose. The more than 4,500 test centers in in the United States are open Monday to Friday, some locations even on Saturday. Since there is no waiting, paperwork or appointment needed, you are in and out in minutes.
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Get results
You will receive your test results in your online account within 1 to 2 days. If your test comes back positive or you have any questions or concerns, call 1-800-456-2323. In all cases your medical information is kept secure.
What else does STDcheck.com offer?
STDcheck.com is running a a number of projects helping to prevent the spread of STDs:
In order to reduce the number of people suffering from STDs, there are a few things that are essential: Know your own status. If you don’t, get tested. Talk to you sexual partner(s) openly, ask them to get tested as well. Practice safe sex. Avoid situations in which you are not able to give full consent. These tips also lower the risk of infecting yourself.
