Sexual Health Blog

PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a daily medication that reduces the risk of getting HIV by more than 99% when taken consistently. It is recommended for people at high risk of HIV exposure. PrEP does not protect against other STIs, so regular testing is still needed.

PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is emergency medication taken within 72 hours (preferably within 24 hours) after potential HIV exposure. It involves taking antiretroviral drugs for 28 days and can prevent HIV infection. Seek medical care immediately after high-risk exposure.

Yes, certain STIs can cause cancer. High-risk HPV types are the leading cause of cervical, anal, throat, and penile cancers. Chronic hepatitis B and hepatitis C infections can cause liver cancer. HPV vaccination and regular screening can prevent HPV-related cancers.

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that attacks the liver, spread through blood, semen, and other body fluids. It can be acute or chronic. Chronic hepatitis B can lead to liver damage, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. A safe and effective vaccine is available.

Hepatitis C is a blood-borne viral infection that can cause chronic liver disease. It is primarily spread through sharing needles but can be transmitted sexually, especially among men who have sex with men. Modern treatments cure over 95% of infections.

Yes, it is both ethically important and often legally required to inform sexual partners if you test positive for an STI. This allows them to get tested and treated, preventing further transmission and complications. Many health departments offer anonymous partner notification services.

Blood donation eligibility varies by STI. Active infections like HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and syphilis typically prevent donation. Successfully treated bacterial STIs may not affect eligibility after treatment completion. Blood banks screen all donations for infectious diseases.

Mycoplasma genitalium is an emerging bacterial STI that can cause urethritis in men and cervicitis and PID in women. It often has no symptoms and is developing antibiotic resistance. Testing is not routine but may be considered for persistent symptoms after treatment.

Ureaplasma urealyticum and ureaplasma parvum are bacteria commonly found in the urogenital tract. They can sometimes cause urethritis, cervicitis, or pregnancy complications. Testing and treatment are typically only recommended when symptoms are present or during pregnancy.