When reading about common types of sexually transmitted medical problems, you’ve probably come across two terms – STD and STI. One of them refers to a sexually transmitted disease and the other – to sexually transmitted infection. Is there any huge difference between the two terms or could they be used interchangeably?
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Protected sex through the use of barrier contraception (like condoms) is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of getting an STD. As effective as condoms are, however, there’s still a possibility of becoming infected. How big is this possibility and is there anything you can do to minimise the potential of exposure even further?
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Various studies confirm the fact that HIV-positive individuals are predisposed to developing clinical depression. Unfortunately, the mental health condition can lead to complications and poor health outcomes. Choosing a good strategy to manage and counter depression is an important part of every holistic HIV treatment.
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Dr. Shim recently contributed to a Singapore local Chinese language newspaper on the topic of HPV vaccination for males. Here is the translated english version.
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Genital herpes is one of the most common STDs. It’s been around for millennia, historical records suggest. Unfortunately, pharmaceutical companies haven’t managed to develop an effective vaccine for it yet. There are several reasons why the HSV-2 virus proves to be exceptionally difficult to tackle.
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Usually, you are not going to test positive for an STD immediately after getting infected. There’s an incubation period that’s characterised by the pathogen being undetectable. Hence, you should wait some time before getting an STD test. Here are some testing timeframes for a few of the most common STDs in Singapore.
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Recoveries from sexual assault can be long and troublesome. Survivors would have to go through counselling and extensive medical assistance to start healing. Acting fast in the aftermath of assault should be prioritised. The first 72 hours are incredibly important, especially when it comes to the prevention of HIV.
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Few topics make people as uncomfortable as the topic of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Still, this is something that partners have to discuss, especially if they’re entering into a committed relationship. Talking about STDs, testing and protection can strengthen the bond between two people and result in fewer problems down the line.
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While Singapore offers reliable and modern STD treatment options (including HIV management), society is still lagging behind when it comes to de-stigmatisation. Prejudices still abound, especially when it comes to HIV-positive individuals. The government is trying to change the situation but lasting progress is also dependent on the effort of every single Singaporean.
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April is recognised as STD Awareness Month and many parts of the world carry out awareness campaigns within those 30 days. Singapore is still lagging behind in terms of social acceptance and STD de-stigmatisation. If you want to be a change ambassador, you can do a couple of simple but very effective things this year.
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