One of the largest obstacles in HIV prevention is the lack of clinics and resources in developing countries around the world. Now, British product designer Hans Ramzan has unveiled a solution that could potentially save thousands of lives. CATCH is a low-cost, self-testing HIV kit, partly made from recycled plastic, that is designed to help individuals check for HIV in their own homes, reducing the need to travel miles to the nearest clinic.
STDs are also a major health problem in the United States. In fact, 2018 –– the last year on record –– saw STD rates reach new highs in the U.S. Yet, perhaps the scariest thing about STDs is that so few people really understand what they are and how they function. There are way more false claims and rumors about STDs than there is heart disease, for instance. Thankfully, today we aim to put the record straight. Here are five things you don’t know about STDs, but absolutely should:
You Can Get an STD from Kissing
This sounds like a myth, but it’s actually true. Yes, you can contract certain STDs –– particularly herpes –– just by kissing someone. The reality is that the herpes virus spreads through skin-to-skin contact. So you can contract this disease without even having sexual relations at all!
STDs are Mostly Asymptomatic
Contrary to popular belief, STDs do not always manifest in obvious ways. In fact, many people who have an STD don’t even know it. When STD symptoms do appear, they’re often mild or short-lived. However, it’s important to note that just because STDs are asymptomatic, it doesn’t mean they’re harmless.
STDs Can Affect Your Whole Body
There’s a misconception that STDs only affect the genital region. And while it’s true that some STDs can have a negative impact on fertility, certain STDs can affect your entire system. Indeed, STDs have been known to cause stomach pains, sore throats, in addition to more serious problems like nerve damage, blindness, and even death.
Anyone Can Get an STD
It doesn’t matter if you’re eighteen or eighty, black or white, gay or straight, male or female –– the truth of the matter is that anyone can get an STD. And only takes one encounter to spread or contract an STD. That’s why you need to be careful every time. Note, it’s possible to contract an STD through oral, anal, and/or vaginal sex.
STD Testing is Safe, Simple, and Painless
For some reason, STD testing has almost become as stigmatized as STDs themselves. But the reality is that STD testing is safe, simple, and painless. STDs can typically be identified through either a urine or a blood test. (Though, in some instances doctors may perform a physical examination as well to corroborate results.) These tests aren’t painful, and they only take a few minutes to complete. In the case of urine tests, most facilities will produce test results after a few days. Blood tests for conditions like HIV may take a few weeks to diagnose. If you’re concerned about your health and well-being, then don’t hesitate to find local testing near you ASAP. Trust us, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.