Birth Control and HIV

Hormonal Birth Control and HIV AIDS

One of the standard warnings given to women who choose to use hormonal birth control methods such as the birth control pill is that while these contraceptives may help prevent pregnancy, they do not provide protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as HIV/AIDS. Recent studies have suggested that the risk of HIV transmission among women using hormonal birth control methods is actually increased. Furthermore, the reasons behind this increased risk of HIV/AIDS transmission among women using birth control goes beyond the fact that hormonal contraception does not provide STD protection. So how does hormonal birth control increase the risk of HIV/AIDS?

HIV AIDS Transmission

In order for the HIV virus to be transmitted, there must be a point of access within the body where the infection may take place such as an open sore, a needle prick, a bleeding surface, inflammation or an otherwise fragile surface. Some studies suggest that the side effects associated with sex hormones that are used in hormonal birth control methods may increase the likelihood of these types of infection sites to occur.

Types of Hormonal Contraceptives

A report published by the International AIDS Society has linked the use of an injectable contraceptive known as depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) with an increased risk of HIV-1 infections. Interestingly, women using DMPA were at a greater risk of HIV infection than women using no form of contraception at all.

In addition, the same study suggested that there may be a link between HIV infection and oral contraceptives or birth control pills.

Birth Control Pills and HIV

The hormones that are used in birth control pills can produce a variety of effects on the female reproductive system. Some explanations as to how this hormonal birth control method may increase the risk of HIV/AIDS transmission include the following.

Irregular Bleeding
All types of hormonal birth control methods cause irregular uterine bleeding and produce common birth control symptoms such as "spotting" or "breakthrough bleeding." Breakthrough bleeding is typically caused by an excessive thickening of the lining of the uterus (endometrium).

The effects of hormonal birth control on the endometrium make it an ideal site of infection, since the uterine lining becomes a large, bleeding surface where HIV transmission may take place. In addition, the presence of blood in the vagina may change the pH in the area, and make it more susceptible to HIV and STD infections.

The presence of blood in the vagina also increases bidirectional HIV transmission (i.e. from men to women and vice versa). This is because the HIV virus is found in highest concentrations in the blood.

Cervical Ectopy
Hormonal birth control causes cervical ectopy - a condition in which a layer of endo-cervical cells extends beyond the opening of the cervix. This fragile layer of cells replaces a thick membrane that is comprised of multiple layers and is resistant to microorganisms or STDs.

The increased surface area of this fragile layer (known as the cervical endothelium) becomes an ideal site for HIV and STD infection. This is because the cervical endothelium is the site of the chemokine receptors CCR-5 and CXCR-4, which must be present in order for HIV infection to occur. In fact, the cervix is considered to be the main site of HIV infection in women.

Progesterone Hormones
Progesterone hormones used in birth control pills can have several effects on the body that may increase the risk of HIV infection. The side effects of progesterone hormones may include the following:

• immune system suppression
• thinning of the endometrium
• endometrium atrophy
• irregular uterine bleeding

All of these factors may increase the risk of HIV transmission.

Other Considerations
Another common symptom of the birth control pill experienced by women is vaginal dryness. Vaginal dryness can lead to abrasions of the tissue surface, which can create an ideal site of HIV infection.

Lastly, it is important for all women who may be at risk of HIV infection or are using hormonal contraceptives to use barrier methods such as condoms that offer protection from STDs such as HIV/AIDS.

HIV and Microbicides

HIV and STD Prevention: The Cervical Cap and Microbicides

The search for HIV prevention has led to an exploration of a variety of methods developed to offer protection from sexually transmitted diseases. One of the most feasible options to date is the microbicide for the prevention of STDs - particularly HIV AIDS. While this method of STD prevention has failed in the past, recent developments have improved this device. The cervical cap known as the FemCap, in combination with a microbicide gel, could offer a viable option for HIV AIDS prevention in women.

What is a Microbicide?
A microbicide is a compound or substance that is used for the purpose of preventing infection of bacteria or viruses such as the HIV virus. Topical microbicides such as gels could be applied to condoms or directly to genitals in order to prevent infection of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

In the early years of the HIV AIDS pandemic, microbicides such as Nonoxynol-9 and, more recently, Cellulose Sulphate were used in an attempt to prevent STDs. However, these methods failed and even increased the risk of HIV transmission. Nonoxynol-9 in particular failed because although it destroyed the cell wall of the HIV, it also irritated the surface of the cervix, vagina, and rectum. This irritation led to the formation of sores, which served as sites for HIV AIDS and other STD infections.

HIV Infection and The Cervix
One of the major failures of microbicides in the past is attributed to a failure to take basic anatomy and immunology into consideration. In other words, how HIV AIDS infects a woman's body.

The cervix is actually the main site of HIV invasion, and is thus the area that requires the greatest protection. The cervical canal is lined with a single layer of vascular epithelium, which is extremely fragile. The cervix also has a high concentration of chemokine receptors (CCR-5 and CXCR-4) and many lymphocytes are present in this region. These receptors - which are almost absent from the mucus membranes of the vagina ­- must be present in order for HIV infection to occur.

According to some research, any irritation caused by microbicides will mobilize immune cells to the cervix, making them a target for HIV invasion and replication. This is particularly dangerous for women with cervical ectopy, a condition in which a single layer of endo-cervical cells extends beyond the border of the cervical os (cervical opening).

The FemCap and Microbicides
The FemCap in combination with a new microbicide known as Acidform (Amphora) has emerged as one potential method of STD (Sexually Transmitted Diseases)/HIV prevention in light of recent research.

Amphora is classified as a vaginal defense enhancer, and some believe it to be the most promising microbicide presently available. This is because it claims to fulfill two basic criteria:

• does not irritate the cervix
• does not stimulate the immune system

Amphora aims to preserve vaginal acidity even in the presence of semen. It also claims to protect and insulate the mucus membrane from HIV invasion, and kill STD and HIV organisms on contact.

Applying Amphora requires the use of a cervical cap known as the FemCap, which has long been approved in the United States and Europe as one of many viable birth control methods.

How FemCap Works
Previous use of microbicides involved either an applicator or a diaphragm. Supporters of the FemCap method point out that both of these methods of contraception cause irritation of the cervix and stimulate the immune system, putting individuals at greater risk of HIV infection. In the case of the diaphragm, the cervix is actually steeped in a pool of microbicides, increasing the risk of irritation.

The FemCap covers and protects the cervix from both the effects of microbicides as well as STD and HIV contact by acting as a barrier. The design of the FemCap allows for the storage and delivery of microbicides to the vaginal side, allowing the cervix to remain protected while killing STD organisms as soon as they come into contact with the vagina. The microbicide is naturally expelled through the vagina.

This method offers a potentially new option for the prevention of STD and HIV AIDS. Speak to your health care provider for more information about the FemCap and microbicides for STD prevention.

HIV/AIDS and Hispanic Americans

AIDS and Hispanic-Americans

While in recent years there has been increased awareness of the global HIV/AIDS epidemic, much less focus has been placed on the demographic groups that are at increased risk for HIV/AIDS within the United States. Such groups include the Hispanic-American population, an ethnic community that accounts for only 14% of the American population but which accounts for 19% of the close to 1 million Americans diagnosed with HIV/AIDS since the onset of this epidemic over 25 years ago. This figure is due to the fact that, for a variety of reasons, Hispanic Americans are, like African Americans, at a greater risk for HIV/AIDS than non-African and non-Hispanic Americans.

But why are Hispanic Americans at a greater risk for HIV/AIDS? And why is this risk of aids increasing among Hispanic Americans?

Hispanic Americans and HIV/AIDS: Facts and Figures

AIDS statistics for Hispanic Americans have become increasingly daunting.

Accounting for 19% of all HIV/AIDS cases in the United States, Hispanic Americans are more likely to die because of HIV/AIDS than Caucasian Americans; from 2000 to 2004, the number of deaths among Hispanic Americans from AIDS-related causes rose by 7%, compared to the 19% decline of AIDS related fatalities among American Caucasians.

Rates of HIV/AIDS are four times higher among Hispanic Americans than their Caucasian counterparts.

Hispanic American women made up 21% of HIV/AIDS cases in 2004 while Caucasian women made up 16% of AIDS cases in that same year. The rate of adult and adolescent Hispanic females affected by AIDS is the second highest rate in the country, affecting 12.4 people per 100,000, second only to the AIDS rate among African Americans.

Additionally, 89% of all Hispanic American HIV/AIDS cases affect Puerto Rican Americans, in addition to Hispanic Americans living in the following states: California, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Texas.

Why Are Hispanic Americans More Susceptible to HIV/AIDS?

Alone, race, ethnicity and gender do not explain why certain groups of the population are more susceptible to contracting HIV/AIDS. The following barriers and circumstances are most likely responsible for the disproportionate presence of HIV/AIDS among Hispanic Americans:

• Socioeconomic factors: currently, 22% (9.1 million) of the Hispanic American population lives below the American poverty line. Also, 24% (or 1 in 4) Hispanic Americans don’t have health insurance, compared with 17% of Caucasian Americans and 20% of African Americans, limiting access to important medical treatment and diagnosis
• STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases): on average, Hispanic Americans have higher rates of STDs, including syphilis and chlamydia. This is due in large part to a low use of condoms among Hispanic Americans. Fifty-one percent of HIV/AIDS cases among Hispanic-American men contracted the disease through heterosexual sex, while heterosexual sex led to the contraction of HIV/AIDS for 65% of Hispanic American women
• Limited knowledge and lack of testing: According to a recent study, 48% of Hispanic Americans are unaware that they are infected with HIV, compared with 67% of African Americans and 18% of Caucasian Americans. Also, on average, Hispanic Americans are tested for HIV/AIDS later than their Caucasian counterparts: 39% (more than one-third) of Hispanic Americans are diagnosed with AIDS within a year of testing positive for HIV, suggesting an extremely tardy diagnosis, which also likely accounts for the group’s high fatality rate
• * Cultural and linguistic barriers: such barriers can contribute to a fear of the disease, as well as stereotypes, thereby hindering information on practicing safe sex in order to avoid sexually transmitted diseases. Also, such barriers can hinder communication with care givers

What is Being Done to Combat this Epidemic?

A variety of initiatives have been developed to combat the growing HIV/AIDS epidemic in the Hispanic American community.

For example, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Academy for Educational Development have established the VOICES/VOCES (Video Opportunities for Innovative Condom Education and Safer Sex) initiative. This initiative promotes condom use for Hispanic Americans, and also plays an active role in their distribution among the Hispanic American community.

In addition, the Ryan White CARE (Comprehensive AIDS Resources Emergency) Act runs programs on HIV/AIDS education and support for women, youth and family affected with HIV/AIDS in areas of the country most affected by the disease.

The CARE Act also has programs in place in order to improve standards of health care for refugees living along the Mexican-American border.

HIV/AIDS and African Americans

HIV/AIDS and African Americans

With all of the attention recent international conferences and celebrity endorsements are attracting to the epidemic of AIDS in Africa, there is surprisingly little discussion around its prevalence in the United States. What is perhaps most disturbing is its rate of occurrence among African Americans, who are affected by the deadly virus at a ratio highly disproportionate to their overall population. Indeed, while African Americans account for some 12% of the population, they represent nearly 50% of those affected by HIV and AIDS. And African American women are nearly 20 times more likely to acquire the deadly virus than white women.

But just what is being done to combat this alarming phenomenon? And what caused it to occur in the first place?

HIV/AIDS
The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a viral infection that affects cells present in our blood, semen, and other bodily fluids. It is passed primarily through vaginal or anal sex. The infection affects the body's immune system, destroying infection-fighting cells called T-cell lymphocytes, leaving the person highly susceptible to illnesses that their body would otherwise be able to fight off. This is why those who acquire HIV often develop acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Why are African Americans More Susceptible to HIV/AIDS?
Race and ethnicity are not influencing factors in the acquisition of HIV/AIDS, and alone they do not explain why certain sub groups of the population are so unjustifiably affected. The following barriers and circumstances are most likely responsible for the disproportionate presence of HIV/AIDS among African Americans:

Socioeconomic factors: Currently, some 1 in 4 African Americans are living on or below the poverty line. This affects their ability to acquire health insurance, with some 20% of African Americans reporting not having any insurance at all. Among those who are insured, 59% have public insurance such as Medicaid, which provides considerably less comprehensive coverage than private insurance. Limited health care also means fewer opportunies for medical providers to provide education about HIV prevention.

Risky sexual behavior and substance abuse: Compared with white men, black men are considerably less likely to acquire HIV through unprotected sex with other men (73% for white men compared with 49% for black men). Unprotected heterosexual sex and needle-injecting drug use are the leading causes. Among African American women, however, some 80% are infected through heterosexual contact. Stigmas surrounding gay behavior among men has led many to lead dual lifestyles, whereby their women are unaware of the unsafe sexual practices of their male partners.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): African Americans are about 20 times more likely to have gonorrhea and about 5 times more likely to have syphilis then their white counterparts. Genital lesions caused by such STDs provide an ideal entry point for HIV -- increasing the likelihood of acquiring the virus three to five times over.

Racism in the medical establishment: Because there are fewer African American physicians, the care of black patients resides almost entriely in the hands of white doctors. There are clear differences in time spent, quality of care, and number of doctor's office visits between blacks and whites. Whites receive more thorough diagnostic work and better treatment and care than people of color -- even when controlling for income, education, and insurance. Research has also concluded that doctors are less likely to take the time needed to provide preventative education and are less aggressive when treating minority patients.

Under utilization of medical care: Because of the problems described above, blacks tend to be less trusting of the medical establishment and tend to under utilize medical resources compared to whites. Blacks may be concerned that their medical information will be not kept confidential if they visit a testing clinic. They may not feel confident that they will get good treatment for the disease if they are infected.

Limited knowledge: According to a recent study, some 67% of African Americans infected with HIV are unaware of their HIV status, compared with 48% of Hispanics and 18% of whites. This may be due to the fact that blacks are generally less aware of the availability of HIV testing, and, as described above, are less likely to seek medical care in general.

Among African Americans, those at greatest risk are women, who account for about 36% of all new HIV diagnoses and about two thirds of all women affected by the virus; youth, who represent nearly 65% of all new cases among teens; and men who have sex with other men. In fact, recent statistics suggest that about 33% of all black men having sex with men are infected with HIV -- a sobering statistic when compared with the 7% of white men in the same category.

What is Being Done to Combat this Epidemic?
Although previously African American advocacy groups such as the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) were accused of sidestepping the issue, they have recently begun actively campaigning around prevention and awareness of HIV/AIDS. They are now encouraging black Americans to be tested and to use the political process to pressure the government into action. The Black AIDS Institute has developed what they call the African-American Bridging Program, which was presented at the 2006 AIDS Conference in Toronto.

The American Red Cross has also taken a stand on the issue, offering an instructional course entitled "The African American HIV Education and Prevention Instructor Course", which trains individuals one how to provide HIV education in a culturally sensitive manner.

For its part, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) is currently funding a variety of programs and research projects aimed at HIV/AIDS education and prevention in high-risk neighborhoods, such as gay and African American communities.

However, it is the disturbing silence of national and regional politicians, as well as cultural factors, that prevent open discussion around sexuality. This continues to present one of the greatest challenges to overcoming this critical situation.

Molluscum Contagiosum

Molluscum Contagiosum

Over the past thirty years or so, most of us have become aware of the need to engage in safe sexual practices. In order to prevent contracting one of the many types of STDs out there, it is necessary to wear a condom or abstain from sexual activities. One type of STD that is now increasing in frequency is Molluscum Contagiosum. Molluscum contagiosum appears as a skin rash on various areas of the body. Though of little threat to your physical health, molluscum contagiosum can be an uncomfortable and lingering disease to contract.

What is Molluscum Contagiosum?
Molluscum contagiosum is a skin infection that is caused by a virus called the Poxvirus. It causes a rash of tiny sores that can appear on areas of your skin or on the mucus glands of your eyes, mouth, nose, or genitals. Affecting almost 8% of the world’s population, molluscum contagiosum can affect men, women, and children. There are few health risks associated with molluscum contagiosum, however, the infection can be quite uncomfortable and long lasting.

How Do You Get Molluscum Contagiosum?
Molluscum contagiosum is contracted when you engage in skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. In adults, this skin-to-skin contact is generally in the form of sexual activity, including:

• vaginal sex
• oral sex
• anal sex

However, molluscum contagiosum can also be picked up by handling an infected person’s clothes or towels, or bathing with an infected person.

Who’s At Risk for Contracting Molluscum Contagiosum?
Everyone, including adults and children are at risk for contracting this skin disease. Children between the ages of two and twelve are the most susceptible to the illness because they haven’t had the chance to build up immunity to the virus. Adults are also at risk, particularly those who:

• engage in unprotected sexual activity
• engage in mutual masturbation
• share towels, bedding or clothes

The highest incidences of molluscum contagiosum occur in tropical and warm climates around the world. Overall infection rates are approximately 5% to 8% of the population. Additionally, up to 20% of people with active HIV have mulluscum contagiosum.

Symptoms of Molluscum Contagiosum
The main symptom of molluscum contagiosum is the appearance of a red or flesh colored rash on certain areas of the body. This rash is made up of individual lesions called molluscum. The molluscum usually:

• appear within two to seven weeks of infection
• grow in clusters of two or more
• grow to between two and five millimeters in diameter
• have indented centers
• grow on the genitals, thighs, and lower abdomen (in adults)

The molluscum are usually painless, however, they sometimes cause intense itchiness. If scratched, you can move the poxvirus along to other parts of your skin, where new molluscum rashes will grow.

Complications of Molluscum Contagiosum
Molluscum contagiosum usually causes no health related issues. However, it is possible that your infection will last for a lengthy amount of time. Because it is so easy to spread the virus to other areas of your body (through scratching), many infections last six months or longer. If you scratch at molluscum contagiosum lesions you also put yourself at risk for infection. Serious infection can result in permanent scarring.

Treating Molluscum Contagiosum
Molluscum contagiosum usually resolves without any type of treatment. However, it can take a while for the virus to disappear, and may be unpleasant for you or others to look at. In these cases, mulluscum contagiosum can be treated by your health care practitioner. Treatment usually involves removing the molluscum in order to prevent it from spreading to other body parts. Molloscum contagiosum treatment includes:

• Cryosurgery: During cryosurgery, your health care provider will apply liquid nitrogen or dry ice to your sores. After a few seconds, the lesion will be frozen and fall off. Cryosurgery is relatively pain-free.
• Evisceration: Evisceration involves removing the core of the molluscum lesion. This prevents it from growing and stops the spread of the rash. Evisceration is generally done with a scalpel.
• Curettage: Curettage involves scraping the lesions off of the surface of your skin. It also allows for biopsies of the lesions to take place, allowing for accurate diagnosis. Topical pain relievers are usually administered prior to this type of treatment.

Preventing Molluscum Contagiosum
You can reduce your risk of contracting molluscum contagiosum by following a few simple health and safety tips.

• When engaging in any type of sexual activity, be sure to use proper protection. Using a condom can significantly reduce your risk of contracting an STD.
• Limit your number of sexual partners.
• Get tested regularly for STDs, and examine your body for signs of any lesions or outbreaks.
• If you know someone who is infected with the disease, avoiding sharing clothing, towels, or bedding with that person. Also be sure to avoid skin-to-skin contact.

Lymphogranuloma Venereum

Lymphogranuloma Venereum

If you are sexually active, it is important that you and each of your sexual partners be tested regularly for STDs. There are a number of STDs that can easily be transmitted, most of which have devastating physical side effects if not treated. Unfortunately, far too many people are unfamiliar with most types of sexually transmitted diseases. Lymphogranuloma venereum is one type of STD that is uncommon in the United States, but has experienced a resurgence in Europe. Lymphogranuloma venereum can be treated successfully, but, if left untreated, the disease can cause a number of serious physical complications.

What is Lymphogranuloma Venereum?
Lymphogranuloma venereum is a sexually transmitted disease caused by three strains of the Chlamydia trachomates bacteria. This infection causes your genital lymph glands to become swollen and inflamed, and can lead to lymph gland rupture and other health complications. Though very uncommon in the United States (fewer than 600 cases occur every year), lymphogranuloma venereum is endemic to certain tropical areas, particularly South America, the Caribbean, and Asia. There has also been a recent outbreak of the infection in Europe.

How is Lymphogranuloma Venereum Transmitted?
Lymphogranuloma venereum is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. In order to get the disease, you must come into contact with the areas of the body that are infectious, primarily, the genitals. This makes sexual contact the most common method of transmission. You can become infected by participating in:

• vaginal intercourse
• anal intercourse
• oral intercourse
• mutual masturbation

Who’s At Risk for Contracting Lymphogranuloma Venereum?
All men and women are at some risk, however quite low, for contracting lymphogranuloma venereum. Your risk for contracting the disease increases if you:

• have multiple sexual partners
• engage in unprotected sex
• frequently visit areas where the infection is endemic

Symptoms of Lymphogranuloma Venereum
Symptoms of lymphogranuloma venereum typically begin within three and 30 days of initial infection. Symptoms occur in stages:

Stage One:
Stage one of the infection begins with the appearance of painless, red ulcers on the penis or vagina. These ulcers are typically between three and five millimeters in diameter, and usually heal within a couple of days. Most people infected with lymphogranuloma venereum are unaware of the presence of these ulcers.

Stage Two:
Stage two of the infection begins within two and six weeks of the disappearance of the initial ulcers. At this time, the bacteria have infected the lymph glands in the groin area, causing them to become swollen and enlarged. Known as "buboes," these lymph glands can become very painful and may rupture and leak a pus-like discharge. Additional symptoms occurring during this stage include:

• fever and chills
• vomiting
• joint pain
• abdominal or back pain

Stage Three:
Stage three of the infection is associated with the most severe symptoms. During this stage, buboes can appear in the rectal region, making it difficult to pass stools without pain. Other symptoms include bloody diarrhea and a pus-like discharge from the rectum.

Complications of Lymphogranuloma Venereum
If left untreated, lymphogranuloma venereum can become quite dangerous. Complications include:

• scarring of the rectum
• narrowing of the rectum, leading to rectal blockage
• enlargement of the genitals (elephantiasis)
• brain inflammation (though this is very rare)

Treatment for Lymphogranuloma Venereum
If you are diagnosed with the infection, there are effective treatments available. Diagnosis of this STD usually includes a blood test (which looks for the presence of the chlamydia bacteria) and a needle biopsy of infected lymph glands. Treatment involves oral antibiotics, including:

• tetracycline
• doxycycline
• erythromycin

These antibiotics are taken daily for three weeks, or until the infection has cleared.

Preventing Lymphogranuloma Venereum
The only sure way to prevent contracting lymphogranuloma venereum and other types of STDs is by abstaining from all sexual activity. If you are sexually active it is important that you limit the number of sexual partners that you have, and be sure to use a condom during all sexual activities. If you notice any symptoms of an STD, visit your health care provider for an examination as soon as possible, and refrain from any type of sexual activity.

Granuloma Inguinale

Granuloma Inguinale

Sexually transmitted diseases can be a real worry when you are sexually active. Engaging in unprotected forms of sexual intercourse can increase your risk of contracting a number of diseases including HIV, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. Unprotected sexual activity can also increase your chances of developing a rare STD known as granuloma inguinale. Though relatively unknown in the United States, it is still important that you are able to recognize symptoms of the disease. If left untreated, granuloma inguinale can cause a number of serious health complications.

What is Granuloma Inguinale
Granuloma inguinale is a sexually transmitted disease caused by a bacterial infection. Also known as donovanosis or granuloma venereum, the infection is caused by the bacteria Calymmatobacterium granulomatis, which inhabits contaminated drinking water and food. This sexually transmitted disease causes bumps and blisters to form on the genitalia, which, if left untreated, can destroy genital tissues and organs. The disease occurs most commonly in tropical and subtropical areas, including parts of India, Africa, and Asia. Though very rare in the United States, approximately 100 cases do occur here every year, particularly in states on the southeastern coast.

How is Granuloma Inguinale Transmitted?
Granuloma Inguinale is transmitted through sexual activity with an infected partner. It can be ingested by consuming contaminated food or water, and then passed along through sexual intercourse. It is most commonly spread through oral and anal intercourse, however, it can also be spread by touching contaminated sores. Women with granuloma inguinale can pass the disease onto their child during birth.

Who’s At Risk For Developing Granuloma Inguinale?
All sexually active men and women are at some risk for developing granuloma inguinale. However, there are certain factors that appear to increase your risk of developing the disease. These risks include:

• participating in unprotected anal sex
• participating in unprotected oral sex
• having multiple sex partners
• being male (men are twice as likely to contract granuloma inguinale)
• being between the ages of 20 and 40

Travel to tropical and subtropical countries where food and water may be contaminated may also increase your risk of contracting this disease.

What are the Symptoms of Granuloma Inguinale?
The symptoms of granuloma inguinale usually appear within one week of infection, however, they can take as long as eighty days to manifest. First symptoms usually include:

• upset stomach
• diarrhea
• rectal discomfort

The main symptom of granuloma inguinale is the appearance of small, red bumps on the genital area. These bumps are typically painless, and can form on the penis, vagina, labia, and rectum. These bumps are often confused with symptoms of chancroid and syphilis, however, after a few weeks they begin to change in size and appearance. The bumps gradually increase in size and begin to eat away at the genital tissue, causing scarring and destruction.

Complications of Granuloma Inguinale
If left untreated, granuloma inguinale can cause some serious health complications, including:

• permanent genital scarring
• destruction of the genitals
• loss of skin pigmentation around the genitals
• swelling of the subcutaneous tissue in the groin region

Treating Granuloma Inguinale

• tetracycline
• erythromycin
• ciprofloxacin
• streptomycin

Treatment usually lasts for a minimum of three weeks, however, it may continue for several months. Antibiotics must be taken until all sores have healed. Within a week to ten days, you should begin to notice an improvement in your symptoms.

Preventing Granuloma Inguinale
The best way to avoid contracting granuloma inguinale is to abstain from sex. However, if you’re you are sexually active, there are ways to lower your risk of contracting granuloma inguinale and other STDs:

• Always use a condom when engaging in any type of sexual activity.
• Limit your sexual partners.
• If you notice any symptoms of sexually transmitted disease, stop having sexual intercourse and speak with your health care provider.

Nongonococcal Urethritis (NGU)

Nongonococcal Urethritis

If you are sexually active, it is important to be aware of the various infections that you can contract through sexual intercourse. There are a number of infections, including HIV and syphilis, that can have serious health repercussions if you become infected. One of the most common types of STDs in North America is called Nongonococcal Urethritis. Nongonococcal urethritis is highly contagious and can be transmitted easily between sexual partners. Though it can be treated effectively, if left undiagnosed the infection can cause a number of severe health complications.

What is Nongonococcal Urethritis (NGU)?
Nongonococcal urethritis is the term used to describe any inflammation of the urethra that is not caused by the gonorrhea bacteria. NGU is one of the most common STDs found in the United States, and affects both men and women. It is most often caused by the chlamydia bacteria, chlamydia trachomatis, or by the ureaplasma urealyticum infection. However, 10% to 20% of NGU infections are caused by unknown infections.

Who Gets Nongonococcal Urethritis?
Nongonococcal urethritis is a very common STD in the United States, responsible for more than 600,000 infections every year. NGU can affect both men and women, however it occurs much more commonly in men between the ages of 15 and 30. This is because the male urethra is prone to infection more frequently than the female urethra. Though any sexually active man or woman can contract NGU, your risk for developing the infection increases if you:

• engage in unprotected sexual activities
• have multiple sex partners

How is Nongonococcal Urethritis Transmitted?
NGU is primarily transmitted through sexual activity with an infected person. It can be transmitted through:

• vaginal sex
• anal sex
• oral sex

NGU can also be transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person’s mucus membranes.

What are the Symptoms of Nongonococcal Urethritis?
NGU symptoms usually manifest between one and five weeks after initial infection. In men the most common symptoms include:

• burning sensations while urinating
• itching, irritation, and tenderness of the penis
• clear or cloudy discharge from the urethra
• drying of the opening of the head of the penis

In women, symptoms are usually unnoticeable, however, you may experience an increased urge to urinate, or burning sensations upon urination.

Complications of Nongonococcal Urethritis
If treated properly, NGU can be resolved without any permanent health complications. However, if treatment is not sought, a variety of health complications can occur, including:

• infertility
• infection of the fallopian tubes
• pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• prostate infection
• inflammation of the testicles
• eye infection

NGU can also be very dangerous in pregnant women. If bacteria causing NGU is present in the birth canal during labor and delivery, your baby can contract the disease. In infants, NGU can cause a number of serious health complications, including:

• eye infection (conjunctivitis)
• ear infection
• lung infection (pneumonia)

Treating Nongonococcal Urethritis
Nongonococcal urethritis can be treated effectively with a course of oral antibiotics. The most commonly prescribed antibiotics include:

• doxycycline
• erythromycin
• azithromycin
• ofloxacin

Preventing Nongonococcal Urethritis
The best way to protect yourself from NGU infection is to abstain from sexual activity or to engage in safe sexual practices. Follow these tips to help lower your risk for contracting NGU:

• always use a condom during sexual activity
• limit your number of sexual partners
• get tested for all STDs on a regular basis
• if you notice any signs of an STD, refrain from all sexual activity and visit your health care provider for immediate testing

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A

In the past few years, there has been a drive to increase public awareness about hepatitis and other STDs. There are many different types of hepatitis, and you are likely familiar with at least a few of the most common kinds. However, many men and women fail to realize that hepatitis can be transmitted through sexual contact. In particular, Hepatatis A can be passed from an infected partner, potentially causing a number of unpleasant side effects. Here is some of the basic information that you will need to know about Hepatitis A and the steps that you can take to prevent contracting the disease.

What is Hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is one of the most common types of hepatitis and leads to inflammation of the liver. Caused by a virus, Hepatitis A is also known as Viral Hepatitis A. There are actually four other known types of viral hepatitis, including Hepatitis B, C, D, and E. Hepatitis A is caused by a virus that belongs to a family of viruses known as the Picornaviridae family. Currently, more than 22,000 men and women in the United States are suffering from viral Hepatitis A. The virus tends to develop in outbreaks, and is commonly found in institutions, like military barracks and dorm rooms. Hepatitis A rates tend to vary greatly by country.

How is Hepatitis A Transmitted?
Hepatitis A is transmitted through person-to-person contact with infected stool, or with an object that has been contaminated by infected stool. In particular, it can be transmitted through sexual activity, including:

• oral sex
• anal sex
• vaginal sex

The hepatitis A virus can also be transmitted by living in close quarters with an infected person. Additionally, it is transmitted through intravenous drug use or by eating contaminated shellfish or water.

Who’s At Risk for Catching Hepatitis A?
Every man and woman is at risk for catching Hepatitis A. However, certain factors do seem to increase your chances of developing the virus, including:

• use of illegal drugs
• travelling to a country with a high rate of Hepatitis A infections
• engaging in unprotected sex

What are the Symptoms of Hepatitis A?
The majority of Hepatitis A sufferers report having few or no symptoms. In fact, 40% of those infected in the United States are unaware that they even have the disease. When symptoms of Hepatitis A do occur, they typically appear between 10 and 50 days after initial infection. The appearance of symptoms depends upon how many units of infected material you have ingested. The more infectious agents you consume, the sooner symptoms typically manifest. Symptoms include:

• fever
• jaundice
• dark urine
• loss of appetite
• fatigue
• vomiting
• diarrhea

Symptoms usually disappear within one or two weeks.

Complications of Hepatitis A
Fortunately, Hepatitis A rarely causes any severe health complications. Occasionally, symptoms of Hepatitis A infection can be serious, persisting for six months or longer. Very rarely (in fewer than 1% of cases), Hepatitis A can result in death. However, this usually only occurs in elderly patients or those with otherwise compromised immune systems.

Hepatitis A Treatment
Typically, Hepatitis A requires no specialized treatment. Symptoms often disappear on their own without causing any serious health complications. If you develop Hepatitis A, you may receive an injection of immune globulin (IG) to prevent the virus from worsening or to prevent symptoms from appearing. However, immune globulin can only be given within two weeks of initial infection. You may also be hospitalized or given special liquids to take in order to prevent or rectify dehydration.

Preventing Hepatitis A
It is very important to take steps to prevent Hepatitis A transmission and infection. There is now a vaccination available to guard against Hepatitis A, which can be given to anyone over the age of 12 months. The vaccination is given in two stages, usually between six and 18 months apart. It provides effective protection against hepatitis A for up to 25 years. The vaccination is recommended for:

• anyone traveling to countries where Hepatitis A is common
• anyone living with someone who is infected with Hepatitis A
• illegal drug users
• all sexually active men and women

Hepatitis A can also be prevented by limiting your number of sexual partners and by always engaging is safe sexual activity. When having sex, always use a condom, and try to limit your number of sexual partners. If you are unable to engage in safe sexual practices, abstain from all sexual activity.

Chancroid

Chancroid

If you are currently sexually active, or are thinking about becoming sexually active, it is important to become familiar with all of the health risks involved. Unprotected or unsafe sexual practices can dramatically increase your risks of developing a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Many of these STDs have a number of unpleasant side effects and can lead to severe health complications. Chancroid is one of the less common STDs, but it is associated with some very painful and serious side effects. If you suspect that you or your partner has become infected with chancroid, it is important to get tested as soon as possible. Effective treatment for chancroid is available from your healthcare provider.

What is Chancroid?
Chancroid is an infection that is caused by the bacteria Haemophilus ducreyi. Often transmitted through sexual contact, chancroid is associated with a number of unpleasant side effects: primarily the development of painful, pus-filled ulcers in the genital region. Chancroid is very common in tropical areas of the world, particularly in Asia, Latin America, and Africa. Though less common in the United States, sexually active men and women are still at risk for contracting the disease. Infections typically occur in clusters, often resulting in an outbreak in small towns or communities. Chancroid can be easily diagnosed and treated by your health care provider.

How is Chancroid Transmitted?
Chancroid is most commonly transmitted through sexual contact with an infected person. It can be transmitted through:

• vaginal intercourse
• oral sex
• anal sex
• mutual masturbation

Chancroid can also be transmitted through direct, skin-to-skin contact with an infected person’s ulcers.

Who’s At Risk For Developing Chancroid?
Every man or women who is sexually active is at risk for developing chancroid. However, the infection is uncommon in the United States, affecting fewer than 400 people every year. Certain factors do appear to increase the risk of infection, though. These risk factors include:

• HIV infection
• being an uncircumcised male
• engaging in unprotected sex
• having multiple sex partners

What are the Symptoms of Chancroid?
The first chancroid symptoms typically appear within two and seven days of infection; rarely, symptoms can take up to a month to manifest. Those infected typically notice the appearance of raised, red bumps on the genital region. In men, these bumps usually develop on the penis or perinanal region. In women, bumps generally appear on the labia, cervix, vagina, or rectum. Within a few days, these bumps become filled with pus and eventually rupture, leaving painful, open sores in the genital region. These open sores are known as ulcers, and can range from one to three centimeters in diameter. Ulcers can bleed or ooze pus and can take weeks to heal without medication.

In 50% of chancroid infections, the infection also presents itself in the lymph glands in the genital region. These glands become hard and swollen, and may fill with pus. Known as "buboes," these swellings can burst, becoming extremely painful.

Complications of Chancroid
Chancroid can be treated effectively, minimizing the chance of complications associated with the infection. The most common complications of chancroid include:

• scarring (as a result of numerous ulcers)
• infection
• ruptured genital lymph glands

Chancroid has been associated with increased risk for developing other STDs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV.

Diagnosing and Treating Chancroid
If you suspect that you may have chancroid, it is important that you visit your health care provider. The infection can be diagnosed relatively easily and can be treated in a very short period of time. Your health care provider will take a swab from one of your ulcers and examine it under a microscope for evidence of the chancroid bacteria. If you test positive, chancroid treatment usually involves oral antibiotics. The most commonly used antibiotics include:

• ciprofloxin
• trimetropin
• erythromycin

Typically, ulcers begin to heal within two weeks. It is important to refrain from sexual contact until all of your ulcers are healed. Buboes need to be drained by your health care provider. This is usually done with a needle, under local anesthetic.

Preventing Chancroid
The best way to prevent chancroid is to abstain from sexual contact or to use protection when you are sexually active. Be sure to use a condom every time you have sex and limit your number of sexual partners. Be sure that you and your partners get checked regularly for STDs.

Crabs Treatment

Diagnosing and Treating Crabs

Crabs, also known as pubic lice, are one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases. People all over the world contract crabs, and more than 3 million people are infected with the parasite every year in the United States alone. Genital crabs can be contracted through unprotected sex, sex with multiple partners, and, rarely, through contact with infected bedding, towels, and clothing. Though genital crabs are not a serious health threat, they can cause some uncomfortable symptoms and should be treated as soon as possible.

Diagnosis and Testing
Generally speaking, if you have crabs, you will know about it. Genital crabs are tiny parasites which cause intense itching and are usually visually apparent to the naked eye. If you think you may have crabs, you can do a self-exam of the infected area but it is recommended that you see a doctor just to be sure.

Your doctor will begin the exam by taking your medical history and asking you about your symptoms. In order to diagnose body crabs, your doctor will do a physical exam of your pubic hair, and the hair on your legs, arms, chest, eyebrows, or face. Your doctor will look for any crabs that may be moving about, or for the nits (eggs) that the crabs lay.

Genital crabs are usually white or yellow in appearance, unless they have been feeding, in which case they turn a deep red. Fully-grown crabs are pretty small – about the size of a sesame seed – and tend to avoid the light. Pubic crabs burrow down towards the skin in order to feed, so your doctor will check for them at the base of your hair.

The nits will also attach to the base of your hair follicles, so it is important to be thorough in your exam. Your doctor may take a sample of your pubic hair in order to analyze the crabs under a microscope. If any nits or crabs are found, you are infected and it is necessary to begin treatment.

Treatment
Treatment of pubic crabs is fairly straightforward and effective. Products are available over-the-counter or by prescription, and typically come in the form of a shampoo. Over-the-counter products contain Pyrethrin (1%) or Pymethrin (1%), while the active ingredient in prescription shampoos is generally Lindane (1%).

In order to treat your crabs, thoroughly wash and dry the infected areas. Apply the shampoo, being sure to saturate your hair. Leave the shampoo on for a few minutes or as indicated on the bottle. Wash the shampoo out and then dry the area, and put on clean clothes. In order to kill all of the genital crabs, you must wash your clothes and linens in hot water and dry them for at least 20 minutes. Any clothes that can’t be washed should be dry cleaned or stored in plastic bags for a few days. Any crabs on these items will die, as they need to return to your body to feed.

If your eyebrows or eyelashes are infected with genital crabs, you should get a special prescription to deal with them. The eye area is particularly sensitive, so you need to be careful to get the right treatment. Generally, your doctor will prescribe a special petroleum-based lotion, which you will apply to your eyelids twice a day for ten days. Before your first application, remove any visible nits or lice with a comb or your fingernails.

If you are pregnant, be sure to tell your doctor as certain medications are contraindicated in pregnant women. The use of Lindane is to be avoided during pregnancy, as it can be absorbed into the body. Instead, your doctor can prescribe a shampoo with the active ingredient Malathion, which won’t be absorbed into the bloodstream and won’t harm your child.

Follow Up
It is important to follow up on your treatment, in order to be sure that you have killed all of the nits and crabs. If your symptoms persist, repeat the shampoo in 7 to 10 days. Be sure to get your partners treated and to abstain from sex until your symptoms disappear. If you notice any severe redness in the infected areas, or any pus, you should return to your doctor for another check-up.

Crabs Symptoms

Crabs: Symptoms of Pubic Lice

Crabs, officially called pubic lice, affect more than 3 million Americans every year. Transmitted through sexual intercourse or close contact with infected towels, bedding, or clothing, pubic crabs are easy to catch and pass on to other people. Luckily, they are also easy to treat and pose no serious threat to your health.

What are Crabs?
Crabs are actually parasites that infest areas of the body, clinging to rough or coarse hair. They mostly infest the genital area but they can also cling to the legs, arms, eyebrows, eyelashes, mustaches, and beards. Genital crabs are tiny and difficult to see, especially when they aren’t fully grown. However, if you look hard enough you should see some flat, brown or white insects crawling around in your hair. Fully-grown crabs are about the size of a sesame seed. They can live for up to thirty days and mate frequently. Females crabs can lay over 50 eggs during their short lives.

Crabs begin their life as nits, which are tiny white or yellow eggs that are bound to your hair’s follicles. After seven days, the nits will hatch producing nymphs. Nymphs look just like adult crabs, only smaller. Nymphs mature in about 10 days and, as adults, will live for about 30 days.

Adult crabs usually appear as a tan, white, or gray color although they turn dark red after feeding. They have six legs, two of which resemble crab pincers. An adult crab grows to about the size of a sesame seed

Symptoms of Crabs
Crabs will not produce any serious symptoms and should not affect your health to a significant degree. However, you will experience some intense itching, especially at night when the crabs come out to feed. As they feed, the genital crabs release a substance that causes your skin to feel itchy. Try not to scratch too much as this could break the skin and cause lesions.

You may find bluish spots where the crabs have been feeding. As they bite into the skin, bluish marks appear where any blood has been withdrawn. You may also notice dark spots on your skin or underwear. These spots are the crab feces and indicate a definite infection. It is also not uncommon to feel irritated and run down and even have a slight fever.

Consequences of Crab Infection
Generally speaking, pubic crabs pose no serious harm to your body. However, it is not recommended to let your infection continue without treatment. Crabs will not go away on their own and could cause skin damage from frequent feeding. Your skin may become infected if you scratch too much.

If you notice pus in the area, or any open sores, consult your doctor. If you begin to experience a high fever or an unusual discharge it is also necessary to see the doctor. A correlation has been found between pubic crabs and other sexually transmitted diseases. More than 30% of people infected with crabs also have another STD. Therefore, it is important to use condoms, and to abstain from sex while you are still experiencing symptoms.

Crabs

Crabs

Pubic lice are parasitic insects that typically infest the hair surrounding the genital areas. They can attach to coarse body hair on the arms, legs, armpits, eyebrows, and eyelashes. Also referred to as "crabs" because of their pincers, these lice can cause itchiness and irritation in those infected. Genital crabs are one of the most common sexually transmitted infections with more than 3 million cases occurring in the United States every year. Genital crabs can be treated with prescription lotions or shampoos as well as over-the-counter remedies.

Type of Infection: Parasite

Modes of Transmission: Pubic crabs are easily transmitted between sexual partners. Any close contact with an infected person can result in you contracting the parasite. If your sexual partner is infested with pubic crabs, you have a 95% chance of becoming infected yourself. Pubic lice can also be transmitted within families as the lice can live for short periods of time on bedding, towels, and clothing. However, this type of transmission is unlikely, as crabs can only live for 48 hours without human blood. Genital crabs are common in cramped quarters and can run rampant in hostels, military bases, and anywhere where large numbers of people are in close contact with one another.

Symptoms: Crabs symptoms include itching and irritation in the genital area. Since crabs live off of your blood, you may find bluish spots where the crabs have been feeding. Dark spots may also be visible on your skin or underwear. These spots are the crab feces and indicate a definite infestation. Additionally, you may be able to see genital crabs crawling around in your pubic hair or find nits (eggs) close to the bottom of the pubic hair shaft. It is also common to experience a slight fever and feel irritated and run down when you have a pubic lice infestation.

Treatment: Genital crabs are easily treated through prescription or over-the-counter shampoos. In order to combat the infestation, follow the directions on the shampoo carefully. It is important to clean any clothes, bedding, and linens that have may have been infested. Any items that can’t be washed should be dry cleaned or stored in a plastic bag for a few days. This will kill any pubic crabs that may be present. To treat pubic crabs that have infested the eyebrows or eyelids, use a specially prescribed lotion that is safe for the eyes.

Complications: Genital crabs are generally not associated with any severe medical consequences. They are annoying, and may cause skin irritation or infection. Call your doctor if you are experiencing unusual discharge from the penis or vagina, or if your skin exudes any pus.

Consequences in Infants: Pubic crabs present no complications to a baby during or immediately after birth. Pregnant women with crabs should inform their doctors and be careful about any treatments they select. Certain medications should not be used during pregnancy or when breastfeeding, as they may harm your baby. Certain shampoos should be avoided during pregnancy, and shampoos or lotions should be removed from the nipples before breastfeeding

Risk Factors: Pubic crabs are a very common sexually transmitted infection. If you are having sex, then you are at a risk for infection. Those who have unprotected sex or who have multiple partners are at an increased risk as well. Additionally, pubic crabs are highly associated with other STDs; 30% of people infested with pubic lice also have other sexually transmitted diseases. If you live in cramped or confined quarters, or share linens with other people, you are also at increased risk of genital crab infection.

Prevention: In order to prevent contracting crabs, abstain from sex, or practice safe sex. Don’t have multiple sex partners as this will increase your risk of infection. Practice good hygiene habits and avoid sharing bedding, towels, or clothing with others. Wear underwear when trying on lingerie and bathing suits.

Trich Testing and Treatment

Trichomoniasis: Diagnosis and Treatment

Trichomoniasis, commonly referred to as trich, is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. More than 7 million people in the United States have contracted trich. Trich is preventable by practicing abstinence or through safe, monogamous sex, and the use of a condom. An effective cure for trichomoniasis does exist, but prolonged infection can cause swelling and tissue damage.

Why get Tested
Diagnosing trich is not always straightforward. Most men have few symptoms of trichomoniasis. Women are more likely to display symptoms, including yellow-green discharge, but they too can be asymptomatic. Due to the lack of symptoms in both men and women, it is important to discuss your level of risk with your health care provider and get tested. Otherwise, you run the risk of unknowingly infecting your sexual partner.

If you are a man, symptoms of trichomoniasis infection could include: painful ejaculation and urination, frequent urination, or a white discharge from the penis. If you are a woman, trich may look like a yeast infection. Symptoms often include: a yellow-green, odorous discharge, painful intercourse, painful urination, and abdominal cramping.

At the Doctor’s Office
In order to get a proper diagnosis, your doctor will need to meet with you to ask you a few questions and do a physical exam. Common questions that your doctor will likely ask you include whether you have had unprotected sex, if you have had multiple sex partners, and if you are suffering from any other STDs.

During the physical, your doctor will examine your genitals for signs of infection. Women will have a pelvic exam in which the doctor puts two fingers inside of the vagina and gently massages the abdomen. If you are a woman and have trichomoniasis, it is likely that your doctor will find small, red sores around your cervix. You will also have a wet prep performed.

For this test you will be asked to lie down and place your feet in stirrups. An instrument called a speculum will be inserted in your vagina. A speculum has two plastic blades that gently hold open the vagina, exposing the cervix. A brush or wet swab will be inserted into the speculum and swept around the cervix. This swab will be placed into a wet mount. In order to determine if you have trichomoniasis, the doctor will combine the parasite on the swab with salt solution, and place it on a slide. This slide will then be observed under a microscope.

If you are male and think you have trichomoniasis, your doctor will examine your penis and look for signs of infection. A sample of the discharge from your penis will also be taken and placed in a wet mount for examination.

Accuracy
It will take about a week for your doctor to confirm the results of your wet mount. Your doctor will look for evidence of the on the slide. The parasites that cause trich have tails, called flagella, which whip back and forth. If your doctor can see this on the slide, than you have tested positive for trichomoniasis.

The wet mount is not always sufficient to diagnose a case of trich. This process is only about 60% effective. In cases where the wet mount is inconclusive, a culture will be performed. Another sample of discharge will be taken and placed in a plastic dish. Bacteria thrive in these conditions, and any trichomoniasis parasites in your discharge will multiply quickly. Culture tests are 95% effective in producing a diagnosis. Women may also be given a vaginal pH test. A pH level over 4.5 could indicate the presence of trich bacteria.

Treatment
Once diagnosed, the cure for trichomoniasis is relatively straightforward. If you test positive, you will be prescribed the drug metronidazole. This drug is effective in 90% to 95% of all cases. Metronidazole is given in either one large dose, or in a series of smaller doses taken over one week. Metronidazole is associated with some side effects including: aftertaste in the mouth, loss of appetite, and nausea. When taking metronidazole you must abstain from alcohol. Alcohol mixed with metronidazole can cause severe nausea and vomiting.

Metronidazole gel is sometimes used to treat symptoms of trichomoniasis. This gel is applied topically to the vagina, but is not very effective. It is generally only used when oral drugs are unwanted by the patient. If you have trich and are pregnant, your health care provider may wait to start treatment until your baby is born.

Natural cures are available for treating the symptoms of trich but their effectiveness is questionable and generally not recommended without consulting a professional first. You can wash with a douche twice a day. This douche can contain yogurt, vinegar, or herbs such as echinacea, calendula, and goldenseed. The douche will help dry up any discharge.

Eliminating carbohydrates and sugars from your diet may also help symptoms. Taking antioxidants including Vitamins A, C, E and zinc are also thought to be effective.

Complications
Left untreated, trich can lead to a variety of health problems. Not only can symptoms get increasingly worse, but the infection can also cause organ and tissue damage. In men, prolonged infection with trich can potentially damage the bladder as well as the prostate while in women untreated trich can cause the fallopian tubes to become inflamed. Trich can also potentially damage cervical tissue in women.

People infected with trich are also at a greater risk of catching other STDs, most notably HIV. It has been found that people with trich are up to five times more likely to be infected with the HIV virus than those people who do not have trich.

Follow Up
If your symptoms go away after taking medication, there is no need for a follow up visit. If symptoms of trichomoniasis persist, go back to the doctor. You will probably be given another course of metronidazole. If your symptoms still persist, the trich bacteria may have become resistant to metronidazole. Further tests will be necessary, and treatment with another drug required.

Trichomoniasis Symptoms

Symptoms and Consequences of Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis, often called "trich", is caused by a single-celled protozoan parasite known as trichomonas vaginalis. It is usually transmitted through sexual intercourse, although the parasite can also live on towels, bedding, and clothing. Trichomoniasis is the most common curable STD with over 7 million cases in the United States alone. Both women and men may contract the infection, though women are at a greater risk. Most people become infected between the ages of 16 and 35. Left untreated, the symptoms of trichomoniasis can become extremely uncomfortable and may even cause serious damage to your body.

Symptoms of Trichomoniasis
While both women and men can contract the disease, it is women who more commonly suffer from symptoms of trichomoniasis. More than 60% of women infected with trich will experience some symptoms of the disease. Symptoms of trichomoniasis generally appear within 5 and 28 days of infection, although sometimes it can take as long as 6 months for symptoms to develop.

If you are a woman with trich you will most likely have a yellow-green or gray vaginal discharge. This discharge will be bubbly or frothy and have a very bad odor, similar to a yeast infection. Blood can also be present in this discharge. Your vagina may appear more red than usual and your labia may become swollen. Pain during urination and sex is also common in women infected with trich. Lower abdominal pain is a much less common symptom, but it does occur in about 10% of women who are infected. These symptoms generally do not go away on their own.

Men usually exhibit no symptoms of trichomoniasis. The parasites that cause the infection stays well inside the urinary tract, making symptoms rare and diagnosis difficult. About 40% of men will experience mild symptoms. If you are male and have trich you may feel a tingling sensation inside your penis accompanied with painful urination and ejaculation. Your penis may also produce a thin, white discharge. Your symptoms will probably go away on their own within a couple of weeks. This does not mean that you are no longer infectious. You will still be able to spread trichomoniasis to your sexual partners.

Consequences of Trichomoniasis
If left untreated, trich can last for years. You will experience some very uncomfortable symptoms and may also be at risk for various infections. Men may risk penis infection and urethritis as well as prostate problems.

Women with prolonged infections may damage their fallopian tubes and the tissues making up the cervix. Trichomoniasis is also associated with increased risks for HIV infection. Because trich causes the body to create more cells, the HIV virus has more opportunity to infect your body. People with Trich are three to five times more likely to contract HIV.

Pregnant women with trich may pass the disease to their newborn, although this is rare. However, trichomoniasis is associated with premature birth and low-weight babies. Therefore it is important that pregnant women be tested and treated for trich if they are infected.

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is one of the most prevalent sexually transmitted infections. Over 7 million new cases occur in the United States each year. Also called "trich," this infection is caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. Trichomoniasis can affect both men and women but women are much more likely to suffer from symptoms once infected. In fact, only 10% to 50% of men infected will exhibit any symptoms of trichomoniasis. This makes infection of sexual partners very easy. It is important to get tested for trich if you think that you are infected.

Type of Infection: Parasitic infection.

Mode of Transmission: Trichomoniasis is most commonly transmitted through unprotected sexual intercourse. Almost 100% of infections occur through penis-to-vagina intercourse, or vulva-to-vulva intercourse with an infected partner. Women can become infected through contact with both men and women. Men are more likely to contract the infection from women. The vagina is the most common site of infection in women while the urethra (urinary tract) is the most common site of infection in men. Because the trich protozoa can live outside the body for 45 minutes it is possible to contract trichomoniasis if you come into contact with infected towels, bedding, or bathing suits. However, it is very rare to contract the infection in this way.

Symptoms: Men generally exhibit no symptoms of trichomoniasis. However, they can experience irritation of the penis, a burning sensation during ejaculation or urination, and a thin, whitish discharge from the penis. Women are much more likely to show symptoms of Trich. These include a smelly, yellow-green discharge from the vagina, itchy genitals and thighs, swollen labia, and pain during intercourse or urination. Some women may confuse these symptoms with a yeast infection. 10% of women also experience lower abdominal pain and soreness. Women may also suffer from "strawberry cervix," in which lesions form on the cervix and vaginal walls, giving the appearance of redness.

Treatment: Trichomoniasis is easily treated with oral antibiotics. The drug metronidazole is a 90% to 95% effective cure for trichomoniasis infections. Pregnant women may also be treated with metronidazole, in order to prevent the trich bacteria from threatening pregnancy.

Complications: If left untreated, trichomoniasis can rage on for years. In men, this can cause damage to the bladder and prostate. Prolonged infection in women can cause inflamed fallopian tubesand damage to the tissues of the cervix. Trich is also associated with an increased risk of contracting HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. It is thought that if you are infected with trich, you are 3 to 5 times more likely to be infected with HIV.

Consequences in Infants: Babies born to women infected with trichomoniasis are often born prematurely or at a low birth weight. Trich can cause the lining of the uterus to dislodge or tear, causing your baby to arrive early.

Risk Factors: Certain groups are at a higher risk for contracting trichomoniasis. Anyone with immune system disorders or with weakened immune systems are at a heightened risk of infection. This includes people who are diabetic or obese, those who have just given birth, and those who are taking antibiotics or oral contraceptives. If you already have a sexually transmitted disease you are also at an increased risk of contracting trich. Trichomoniasis is highly associated with chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV infections.

Prevention: Trichomoniasis can only be prevented by abstaining from sex. If you do have sex, use a condom. Condoms will significantly reduce the likelihood of infection. Avoid multiple sex partners, as this will also put you at risk for infection. Investigate the sexual health of your partner and get tested before having sex. If you do have symptoms of trichomoniasis, avoid all sexual contact until you have received and completed treatment. Avoid using other people’s towels or swimsuits and shower after you go swimming. Avoid wearing tightly woven nylon underwear or pantyhose, as this can create a warm and moist environment where bacteria can thrive.

Research: Currently, research is being done on discovering why trichomoniasis causes the growth and development of vaginal microbes. Recently, the entire genetic code of the trichomonus vaginalis protozoan was sequenced. This is being used in order to research new methods of preventing the spread of trich.

Treating Syphilis

Testing and Treating Syphilis

If you think you may have syphilis, or have had intimate contact with someone who does, it is important that you get tested. Though rare, if left untreated, syphilis can proceed to chronic stages, causing blindness, dementia, brain damage, and death.

Diagnosis and Syphilis Testing
Syphilis can be diagnosed by your doctor at any stage, but this diagnosis can be a difficult one. Because syphilis symptoms resemble those of other illnesses, it is hard to come to a firm diagnosis. Obviously, the sooner the disease is diagnosed, the sooner you can begin treatment. But syphilis is too often ignored in its early stages. The first chancres that appear may not be visible to you, as they can appear internally. These chancres also disappear on their own, preventing many people from visiting their doctor.

The first step to diagnosing syphilis is to have a talk with your doctor and to have a physical exam. Your doctor will ask you questions about your sexual history and about any sexual protection that you use. Your doctor will also ask about any symptoms you might be experiencing, and when those symptoms first occurred. Try to be as detailed as possible about your symptoms. It is important that your doctor get as much information as possible in order to provide a correct diagnosis.

Testing by Stages
If you are in the first stage of infection, your doctor will examine you for chancres, which are open sores on your body. She will especially examine your genitals, mouth, and anus, as most chancres usually develop in these areas. Your doctor will then take a fluid sample from the chancre to conduct a darkfield exam. In this exam, the fluid from the chancre will be analyzed using a special microscope, called a darkfield microscope. This instrument allows the syphilis bacteria to be seen. This exam is only possible during early stages of infection, when sores are still apparent on your body.

If you are experiencing secondary syphilis, your doctor will examine your lymph glands and look for evidence of a brown rash on your body. He will be sure to examine the bottoms of you feet and the palms of your hands. Your doctor will also order a blood test, and will draw blood from you for this purpose.

Your doctor may order a Rapid Plasma Reagin Test (RPR) or a Venereal Disease Research Laboratory slide test (VDRL). These tests are essentially the same, measuring antibodies produced in your body. If antibodies are present in your body, this may indicate the presence of the syphilis bacteria. If this test turns out positive, another blood test will be performed to confirm the result. This test is called the Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody Absorption Test (FTA-ABS). This test is more accurate than either the RPR or the VDRL.

If you are in the late stage of infection, or if you have experienced problems with your central nervous system, your doctor will probably have to draw fluid from a special area in your spine. This fluid can give information to your doctor about the syphilis infection. A test called a Cerebrospinal Fluid Test will be performed in order to assess the magnitude of the infection.

Treatment
Prior to the development of penicillin, syphilis was treated using a combination of mercury and arsenic. This treatment was often more awful than the disease itself, and led to early death. Today, much better treatments for syphilis exist, and, if caught early, treatment can be extremely straightforward and effective. The best treatment for syphilis infection is penicillin. The dosage and length of treatment you receive will depend upon the stage of infection that you are in.

If you are in the first or second stage of infection and have had syphilis for less than two years, you will be treated with benzathine penicillin. This will be administered in a single, intramuscular injection. After 24 hours you will no longer be infectious.

People that have had syphilis for more than two years, or are in the later stages of the disease, will be treated with procaine penicillin. This treatment consists of one injection every week for three weeks. For those who have suffered serious central nerve damage, you will receive penicillin intravenously every 4 hours for 10 to 14 days, or you will have penicillin injections every day for two weeks. If you are infected and pregnant, you must take penicillin injections. If you are allergic to penicillin, you will be desensitized to the medicine through supervised exposure.

Other medications are available for those who can’t take injections or have trouble sticking to long courses of medication. Doxycycline is administered to those in early and late stages of infection, and consists of a short course of tablets that are taken orally. For those who are allergic to penicillin, other antibiotics are also effective in attacking the syphilis bacteria. You will probably receive a short course of oral antibiotics.

Complications
Left untreated, people infected with syphilis can suffer serious health problems. The majority of health problems associated with syphilis occur in those with tertiary syphilis. During this phase of the infection, syphilis can spread to other parts of the body and affect the nerves, heart, brain, eyes, internal organs, joints, liver and bones. Moreover, it can cause a person to have troubles coordinating their movements as well as cause numbness, paralysis, gradual blindness and even dementia.

Follow Up
It is essential that you complete the treatment that your doctor has given you. Take all medications prescribed, no matter how you feel. Ensure that your partner gets treated to prevent reinfection. Abstain from sex until you have completed your medications and test negative for the syphilis bacteria.

If you are suffering from primary or secondary syphilis, return to your doctor for another syphilis test after 6 months, and again after 1 year. If you are suffering from tertiary syphilis you will be tested after 6 months, 1 year, and again after 2 years. If you have contracted HIV as well as syphilis, you will be required to return for tests every 3 months for 2 years.

Syphilis Symptoms

Syphilis Symptoms and Consequences

Syphilis is a highly infectious bacterial disease that is most commonly spread through sexual contact. The syphilis bacteria, Treponoma Pallidum, attaches to the cells in your body causing the destruction of tissues and organs. Syphilis symptoms generally occur in three stages and, if left untreated, the disease can linger for decades. Eventually, syphilis can cause blindness, loss of motor control skills, dementia, and death.

What are the Symptoms of Syphilis?
Syphilis symptoms generally appear in a series of stages. These stages are: primary syphilis, secondary syphilis, latent syphilis, and tertiary syphilis. It is important to be aware of the symptoms common to each stage. Syphilis symptoms often go unnoticed or ignored because they tend to disappear by themselves. Syphilis symptoms can also be easily confused with other ailments leading to misdiagnosis.

If you are pregnant and infected with syphilis, it is especially important to recognize the symptoms and seek treatment. While the infection is easily cured, it can have devastating consequences in your child if left untreated.

Primary Syphilis
Primary syphilis begins after infection. Usually, it takes between two and six weeks for symptoms to manifest. During this stage, a painless sore called a chancre will appear somewhere on your body, generally at the point of infection. Typically, these chancres will grow on your genitals, anus, lips, or tongue, but they can appear on other body parts too. Sometimes the chancres grow inside the genitals, making the infection hard to diagnose. The chancres will disappear within a few weeks of their appearance. If left untreated, your syphilis may become chronic.

Secondary Syphilis
Secondary syphilis begins 3 to 6 weeks after the disappearance of your chancres. The syphilis rash will appear. This is a brown skin rash that will appear on the soles of your feet and the palms of your hands. This rash can spread to cover your whole body or it may be limited to certain areas. This rash can be contagious, so it is important to avoid skin-to-skin contact with an uninfected person. You will experience other mild symptoms, including fever, sore throat, swollen glands, and hair loss. These syphilis symptoms can also disappear without treatment. They may reoccur for up two years before you progress to the next stage of the disease.

Latent Syphilis
Some people infected with syphilis will experience a latent stage. During this stage, all symptoms will disappear. Some people remain in the latent stage for many years. However, because you are still infectious, it is important to seek treatment even if your symptoms have stopped.

Tertiary Syphilis
80% of those with secondary syphilis will also experience tertiary syphilis. This stage can last for decades and is more difficult to treat. Symptoms become more dangerous to your body and can include damage to the joints, weakening of the bones, gradual blindness, heart disease, and liver disease. Treatment is still an option, even at this stage.

Possible Consequences
If left untreated, the syphilis bacteria may cause serious damage to the heart, brain, eyes, nervous system, bones and joints. It can result in dementia, lack of control over movements, partial or complete blindness, brain aneurysm, and death. Another possible consequence of contracting syphilis is an increased risk of HIV infection. Because of the open sores associated with the disease, it is easier for you to become infected with the HIV virus. If you are infected with syphilis bacteria, you are 3 to 5 times more likely to catch HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.

Syphilis

Syphilis

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease caused by the bacteria Treponoma pallidum. It is often called the "Great Imitator" because syphilis symptoms resemble those of other common diseases. It has also been given the names "Miss. Siff" and "The Pox". Almost 36 000 cases of syphilis are reported in the United States each year but many more go unreported. The majority of syphilis sufferers are male, accounting for about 60% of all cases. If caught early on, syphilis can be easily treated. However, if left untreated, syphilis can cause heart problems, psychological disorders, blindness, and death. Syphilis also increases the risk of contracting HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, by up to five fold.

Type of Infection: Bacterial

Modes of Transmission: Syphilis is almost always transmitted through sexual contact with an infected person. The syphilis bacteria can easily spread from the ulcers on an infected person to the mucous linings of the mouth, genitals, and anus of an uninfected sexual partner. Though unlikely, it is possible to contract the infection by coming into contact with the broken skin of an infected person. Syphilis can also be passed from an infected mother to her unborn child.

Symptoms: Syphilis symptoms occur in stages. Primary syphilis results in painless sores called "chancres." These usually appear on the genitals, but they can also appear on the lips, tongue, and other body parts. These chancres generally disappear within a few weeks, but if left untreated, the disease can progress to chronic stages. Secondary syphilis begins with the syphilis rash. This is an infectious brown skin rash that typically occurs on the bottom of the feet and the palms of the hand. Fever, sore throat, swollen glands, and hair loss can also be experienced. The third stage of syphilis can last for many years, and you may suffer from joint and bone damage, increasing blindness, numbness in the extremities, or difficulty in coordinating movements.

Treatment: If caught early, syphilis is easily treatable. A single dose of an intramuscular penicillin injection can cure those infected within a year. 24 hours after this injection, you are no longer infectious. Some people don’t respond to these penicillin injections, or cannot receive them due to allergies. Other antibiotics are used in these cases. Frequent blood tests over a two year period are required to ensure that the syphilis bacteria has left your system. Treatment will not reverse any damage suffered as a result of the syphilis infection.

Complications: If left untreated, syphilis can cause serious damage to the heart, brain, eyes, ears. It can cause permanent blindness and dementia, and can even result in death. The chancres caused by syphilis can leave you at an increased risk of contracting HIV. These open sores provide easy entry points for the HIV virus, which, if contracted, will lead to AIDS.

Consequences in Infants: Syphilis is easily communicable to your unborn child. This is called congenital syphilis. 40% to 70% of women with syphilis will infect their child and 25% to 50% of these children will be miscarried or stillborn. Congenital syphilis is extremely dangerous, causing deformities, seizures, blindness, and damage to the brain, bones, teeth, and ears.

Risk Factors: You are especially at risk if you do not know the health status of your sexual partners. Those who have sex with multiple partners are also at risk. Health care workers may be at risk of contracting the disease, due to increased contact with those infected with the disease. Drug users who share needles or pipes are also at risk as are those working and living in a corrections facility.

Prevention: To prevent being infected with syphilis, avoid contact with open sores. Use condoms during sex in order to reduce your risk of contracting the syphilis bacteria. Condoms will not completely safeguard you from getting syphilis, as sores can occur on other parts of the body. Use a dental dam during oral sex. Abstinence is the best method to prevent infection. Testing is the only way to prevent syphilis from progressing to its later stages. If you think you may have syphilis, or if you see any of its symptoms, get tested. Routine testing for syphilis is performed on all pregnant mothers to prevent passing the disease to fetuses and newborns. Health care workers should ensure appropriate precautions are taken when dealing with the syphilis bacteria.

Research: New research is being conducted into creating a vaccine for syphilis. This vaccine will help the body’s immune system fight the disease. A safe, one-dose pill is also being developed for those allergic or immune to penicillin. New tests for detecting the disease are being created. These utilize saliva and urine samples, instead of blood samples, to detect the syphilis bacteria.

HIV Prevention

HIV Prevention

There are many steps you can take to help protect yourself against and prevent HIV and AIDS.

Sexual Prevention
One of the main ways HIV transmission occurs is through vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Therefore, the best way to prevent being infected with the HIV virus is by practicing abstinence. This means to refrain from having sex. Having sex within a long-term, mutually monogamous relationship with someone who has tested free of HIV is also considered to be safe.

If you do choose to be sexually active and are not in a committed, mutually monogamous relationship, it is imperative that you use condoms each and every time you have sex. While condoms cannot completely eliminate your risk of being infected with HIV, using them consistently and properly can significantly reduce your risk of infection.

Needle Risk
It is possible to contract HIV by using contaminated needles. Most commonly, this refers to needles and syringes used for intravenous drugs. However, it can also include needles used in tattooing and piercing.

For intravenous drug users, the best way to prevent being infected with HIV is to quit using drugs. Failing this, though, you can reduce your risk of infection by:

• Never sharing or reusing needles for drug injection
• Always safely disposing of your needles or taking them to a needle exchange center

If you are getting a tattoo or a piercing, be sure that the facility you go to only uses new, sterile needles. The facility should also dispose of used needles in a safe and sanitary manner.

Blood Contact
One method of transmitting HIV is through contact with an infected person’s blood. Since the early 1980’s, all blood services and blood banks in North America have utilized rigorous screening procedures to ensure that all the blood they collect and distribute is free of the HIV virus. However, not all countries have the facilities or resources for this type of screening. If you are planning on donating blood, make sure the needles they use are new and sterile. If you are receiving blood, ask about the screening process of the blood being used in the procedure.

Health care workers are also at risk of being infected with HIV through direct contact with an infected person’s blood. People working in a health care setting should take the following precautions to lower their chances of accidental contact and infection:

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water both before and after a procedure
• Always use protective barriers (i.e. latex gloves, masks) when you are in direct contact with bodily fluids including blood
• If possible, always use new, single-use disposable needles and syringes for all injections. Safely dispose of this injection equipment immediately after use.
• Promptly disinfect any contaminated equipment that is not disposable after use

If you think you may have come into contact with an infected person’s blood, it is a good idea to go for HIV testing

HIV and Pregnancy
Because it is possible to pass the HIV virus onto your unborn child, it is highly recommended that all pregnant women, regardless of whether they display any HIV symptoms, have an HIV test done during their pregnancy. Pregnant women who are HIV positive should discuss with their health care provider about starting treatment.

Mother-to-child HIV transmission is also possible through breast milk. If you are HIV positive, discuss with your doctor the pros and cons of breastfeeding your child. You may be advised to avoid breastfeeding.

Sex with HIV
In couples where both partners are infected with HIV, there may be a feeling that it is not necessary to use condoms when having sex or to take precautions. You’re both infected with the virus, anyways, right?

Although there is some debate, there is evidence to suggest that it is possible for an individual who is already infected with HIV to be re-infected with a different strain of HIV. This can cause issues with your treatment as you could be infected with an HIV strain that is resistant to certain medications.

Aside from the possible risk of re-infection, there is also an increased risk of being infected with some other type of infection, most likely another sexually transmitted disease. This includes herpes, HPV, and Hepatitis B and C.

Even if you and your partner are both HIV positive, it is still important to use condoms consistently and properly every time you have sex.

HIV Treatment

HIV Treatment

HIV and AIDS can be treated through various medications and drugs. Because HIV causes AIDS, treatment for HIV is generally the same as AIDS treatment. HIV medications are used to combat the virus by either preventing it from copying itself or by blocking its access to cells. HIV AIDS treatments may also include medications to help deal with any opportunistic infections you may have become infected with. Currently, there is neither an AIDS cure nor an HIV cure.

HIV Medications
There are four different groups of antiretroviral drugs used to deal with HIV/AIDS. The first group of medications are known as nucleoside reverse transcriptase (RT) inhibitors and aim to interrupt the virus’ ability to copy itself. Using these drugs should help reduce the amount of infection in your system, ideally to undetectable levels, while increasing your CD4 cell count.

Nucleoside RT inhibitors attempt to interrupt the HIV from copying itself during the early stages of the process. Nucleoside analog medications for HIV include AZT (Azidothymidine); ddC (zalcitabine); ddl (dideoxyinosine); d4T (stavudine) and Abacavir (ziagen) among others.

Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors also slow down the replication process during the early stages of HIV copying. This group of HIV medication includes Delavridine (Rescriptor); Nevirapine (Viramune) and Efravirenz (Sustiva).

The third group of AIDS and HIV treatment is known as protease inhibitors. Like nucleoside RT inhibitors, protease inhibitors attempt to interrupt the reproduction of the virus. However, these drugs do so at a later stage of the HIV life cycle. Some of the drugs that fall into this group include Ritonavir (Norvir), Saquinivir (Invirase), and Amprenivir (Agenerase).

The final group of drugs currently only has one drug (Fuzeon) approved for use. This group is known as fusion inhibitors and work by stopping the virus from entering your CD4 cells thereby preventing the joining of the virus with the cell membranes. This type of treatment should be used in conjunction with another form of treatment.

Which group of drugs is best varies from person to person. Discuss with your health care provider which you should use.

When Should You Start HIV Treatments?
It is difficult to know exactly when an individual should begin taking medication for their HIV. Unlike other infections, starting treatment early on is not necessarily beneficial. However, waiting until your HIV infection has progressed to late-stage HIV may also not be ideal. Depending on the state of your immune system, some people may be better off to prolong starting antiretroviral treatment while others may benefit from starting early.

If you are HIV positive, it is important to work closely and talk openly with your health care provider. Because HIV symptoms are often not noticeable until the infection has really advanced, regular monitoring of your immune system can help determine just how much of your system the infection has taken over. Regular CD4 tests (which indicate how many cells per cubic millimeter are in your blood) can give valuable insight as to the state of your immune system. The lower the CD4 cell count, the more reason you have to start drug therapy since your immune system is weakening.

Alternatively, you can also have regular viral load tests. These tests indicate just how much of the virus is in your system. Depending on the amount (whether it is low, medium or high), you may be advised to start or hold off on treatment.

Some people with an HIV infection choose to compliment their drug treatment with alternative therapies. Although these treatments do not combat the virus itself, they can help you to feel better about yourself, improve your immune system, reduce your stress levels and alleviate side effects. Some of these alternative therapies include acupressure, massage and vitamins.

Committing to a Regime
Taking HIV medications requires a large commitment on your part. There is no cure for HIV so once treatment is started, it needs to be continued for the rest of your life. Additionally, your medications need to be taken according to a strict timetable anywhere from one to three times a day. Some drugs need to be refrigerated while others have side effects.

Once you have started treatment, regular testing will still be necessary to make sure your viral load is decreasing while your CD4 count is increasing. If this does not happen, or if your viral load begins to increase after a period of effective treatment, it may indicate that your drug regime is failing or that your infection is starting to become resistant to treatment. Changing your drug regime may be necessary.

AIDS and HIV Resistance to Drugs
Overtime, some people taking treatment for AIDS or HIV may develop a resistance to the drugs they are using. This occurs because the HIV virus reproduces itself in your system, often mutating in the process. Since mutations of the HIV strain’s DNA occasionally occur in areas that the drugs target, the virus becomes resistant and is able to copy itself unhindered.

While changing your drug regime can help, it is possible for you to become resistant to an entire group of drugs. To reduce the likelihood of your body becoming resistant to HIV medications, it is necessary to take your drugs on time and every day. By doing this, the virus does not have a chance to copy itself.

It is also possible for you to be infected with a strain of HIV that is already resistant to certain drugs or an entire drug group. This will limit your treatment possibilities.

Treatment Side Effects
Like many other types of medications, HIV treatment often causes unwanted side effects in users. In general, the most common side effects include nausea, fatigue and diarrhea. However, some side effects may severely limit your daily activities, require hospitalization or even be life threatening, although this is rare.

Common side effects in those using nucleoside RT inhibitors include a decrease in red or white blood cells and possibly an inflamed pancreas or nerve damage. Protease inhibitors user often experience nausea, diarrhea as well as other gastrointestinal problems. The drug may also interact with other drugs causing an allergic reaction. Using Fuzeon has also been known to cause an allergic reaction as well pneumonia, low blood pressure, vomiting, fever or chills, rash and difficulties breathing.

Most people find that their body adjusts to the drugs after a period of time causing their side effects to subside. Those who don’t find any relief from their side effects may want to discuss the issue with their health care provider, especially if the side effects are so severe that they make it difficult for you to follow your drug regime. Changing your HIV treatment may help reduce the severity of your side effects and make it easier to take your medications. It is important to note, though, that repeated changes to your medication combinations can actually increase the likelihood that your body will develop a resistance.

While HIV treatments have come a long way over the years, they still leave much to be desired at least as far as side effects are concerned. Currently, researchers are looking for new ways of treating HIV and AIDS as well trying to create an HIV vaccine.