Probiotics for Bacterial Vaginosis: Types, Effectiveness, Dosage
What Is Syphilis Infection? Expert Explains Signs, Symptoms And Treatment
Treponema pallidum is the name of bacteria that causes syphilis. It is a sexually transmitted infection (STI). This infectious condition progresses in phases and, if not treated, can cause major health issues.
"This bacterial disease causes a sore which is initially minor and does not cause much discomfort, but it becomes uncomfortable with time and starts to interfere with your everyday activities. Syphilis infection can arise in several organs, including the rectum, sexual organs, the back, and inside the mouth. It appears to be a little ache at first, but it can quickly become rather serious," said Dr Arun Goyala, Consultant and General Physician at Ivory Hospital, Greater Noida.
Different Stages Signs and Symptoms of Syphilis Primary Stage Of SyphilisCanker sores occurs during the primary stage of syphilis. As per Mayo Clinic, canker sores are small, shallow lesions that appear on the soft tissues in your mouth or at the base of your gums. Unlike cold sores, canker sores do not appear on the surface of your lips and are not contagious.
Also read: How To Know If You Have Syphilis: Can It Be Cured?
The infection begins with these painless sores, at the site of infection which is genital, anal, or oral. These sores are highly contagious but may go unnoticed.
Secondary StageSkin Rashes and Mucous Membrane Lesions: If untreated, syphilis progresses to the secondary stage, marked by a skin rash that may include palms and soles. Mucous membrane lesions can also occur in the mouth and genital areas.
Latent StageNo Visible Symptoms are there in this stage. Syphilis may enter a latent stage where no visible symptoms are present. However, the bacteria remain in the body and can progress to the tertiary stage if untreated.
Tertiary StageAccording to Dr Goyala, this is the final and most severe stage of the syphilis infection. This is because, up to this point, the infection has spread to all possible regions of the body, approximately 15-30 percent. If you have not started therapy for this bacterial illness, there is a risk of consequences.
Tertiary syphilis can cause health complications, including damage to internal organs, the brain, nerves, eyes, heart, blood vessels, liver, bones, and joints.
How Syphilis Is TransmittedSyphilis is primarily transmitted through direct contact with syphilis sores during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Pregnant women with syphilis can transmit the infection to their unborn child, leading to congenital syphilis.
Also read: Syphilis On The Rise: Doctor Suggests Measures to Avoid And Treat this Ancient STD
A blood test is the most common method to diagnose syphilis. This test detects antibodies produced in response to the infection. Examination of syphilis sores under a microscope may also be performed.
How To Reduce The Risk of ItConsistent and correct use of condoms can reduce the risk of syphilis transmission. Routine testing for syphilis and other STIs is important, especially for people with multiple sexual partners.
Syphilis can be a potentially life-threatening infection, but it is curable with timely and appropriate treatment. Regular STI testing, practising safe sex, and open communication about sexual health are essential components of preventing and managing syphilis. If you suspect you may have been exposed to syphilis or are experiencing symptoms, seeking prompt medical attention is crucial for accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.
The 6 Best Herpes Test Kits For 2024
During routine in-office sexually transmitted infection (STI) panels, herpes is not typically included in the screening unless requested or your doctor has reason to believe you have herpes (evidence of an outbreak). That's despite some staggering numbers suggesting just how prevalent this infection is: In the U.S., more than half the population between the ages of 14 and 49 have some form of herpes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). On a global scale, the World Health Organization reports that 3.7 billion people under the age of 50 have herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), the main cause of oral herpes; an estimated 491 million people ages 15 to 49 have herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), the main cause of genital herpes.
Thankfully, there are over-the-counter (OTC) herpes test kits that can give you the answers you need without a trip to the doctor. "At-home tests are generally reliable when used correctly," Dr. Stephanie Hack, board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist, tells us, adding that not all herpes tests are created equal.
To help us better understand what to look for in the best at-home herpes tests, we spoke with a panel of medical experts who specialize in sexual and reproductive health to get their input on what to look for in a self-administered herpes test and what to avoid. We then used the expert input to research the top OTC herpes tests and rated each based on cost, ease of use, time to results and medical support offered. Here's our picks for the best at-home herpes tests.
STDcheck
Cost: $79Tests for: HSV-1 and HSV-2Time for results: One or two daysTest collection method: Blood sample at the labDoctor consultation available: Yes, cost of $95Accepts insurance: No, but reimbursement may be availableFSA/HSA eligible: YesFree shipping: N/A; lab collection
If you're looking for fast results, STDcheck.Com is your best bet, with results ready in just one or two days. The only catch is that, even though you will order the test online, you'll need to go to one of STDCheck's 4,500 CLIA- and CAP-certified labs located throughout the U.S. To have your blood drawn. There are no appointments necessary, and you can visit a test center as soon as your order is placed.
While less convenient than a fully at-home test, it also means that if you are queasy about taking your blood sample or worried about making a mistake while self-administering the test, this is a great option, and you'll get your results faster than sending your sample by mail — which is the only other option since there aren't any rapid at-home herpes test available to date. Another feature we love about STDCheck.Com is if you test positive, for an additional $95 consultation fee, your partner can be treated as well.
Pros247Labkit
Cost: $79.95Tests for: HSV-1 and HSV-2Time for results: Two to five daysTest collection method: Swab of open soreDoctor consultation available: No, but additional medical resources provided for positive resultsAccepts insurance: NoFSA/HSA eligible: NoFree shipping: Yes
Finding an unidentifiable bump down there is always nerve-racking, but it's not always easy to determine whether or not it's herpes. Many people are asymptomatic or have a mild case, which could easily be confused with an ingrown hair or a pimple. The at-home herpes test from 247Labkit offers an easy, affordable way to determine whether you have an outbreak or something else.
Instead of a blood sample, the test is done using a swab of the sore. Of course, this means it's only beneficial for those with a visible sore or lesion, but it's an easier, less invasive testing method than a blood draw. Once you take a swab of the sore on your mouth, lips or genital area, you'll mail it to a CAP- and CLIA-certified lab. Your results will be sent to you via email within three to four days. Although the turnaround time is fairly standard, it's worth noting that 247Labkit uses economy shipping rather than standard or priority, which is typically a slower service. You can, however, opt for first-class or next-day shipping for an additional fee of $15 or $22, respectively.
Pros
HealthLabs.Com
Cost: $45Tests for: HSV-2 Time for results: Three days or lessTest collection method: Blood sample at labDoctor consultation available: Yes, for $95 feeAccepts insurance: NoFSA/HSA eligible: YesFree shipping: N/A; lab collection
STD testing isn't exactly the type of thing you want to be too frugal about, but at the same time, it doesn't have to cost a fortune. HealthLabs.Com has an extensive — and budget-friendly — catalog of STI tests, with results ready in three days or less. Additionally, HealthLabs.Com offers a 110% price guarantee, so if you find a test from another company at a lower price, HealthLabs will match it and give you an additional 10% discount. You can also use your FSA or HSA funds to pay for the test.
If you're concerned about genital herpes, there are several tests to choose from, but the least expensive option would be the single HSV test. The Herpes Type-2 Test measures type-specific HSV-2 antibodies in the blood and costs $45. (You can also get an HSV-1 specific test for the same price.) Other herpes testing options from HealthLabs.Com include:
Herpes Type 1 and 2 Panel – tests for both HSV-1 and HSV-2 for $79
Viral STD Panel – tests for herpes (type 1 and 2), HIV-1, HIV-2, hepatitis A, hepatitis B and hepatitis C for $109
Comprehensive STD Panel – tests for herpes (HSV-1 and 2), HIV (type 1 and 2), chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis and hepatitis A, B, and C for $139
Ultimate STD Panel – tests for everything in the Comprehensive STD panel plus Trichomoniasis along with early detection RNA testing for HIV for $349
While there are health education specialists who can help you interpret your results at no cost, if you test positive and want a doctor consultation, there's a $95 fee.
ProsAmazon
Cost: $89Tests for: HSV-2Time for results: Two to five daysTest collection method: Finger prickDoctor consultation available: YesAccepts insurance: NoFSA/HSA eligible: YesFree shipping: Yes
While many STD testing companies offer follow-up medical support, most of the time, it's not free. With the At-Home Herpes Test from MyLab Box, however, if your result is positive, you can schedule a virtual doctor consultation at no extra cost.
The test itself is done entirely from the comfort of your home and only requires a small blood sample. Instead of a test tube, myLab Box uses dried blood spot testing (DBS), so after pricking your finger, you'll add a few drops of blood to the enclosed DBS card. One of the biggest benefits of DBS testing is that samples are easily transported, meaning you can send it back any day or time of the week with no restrictions. On the other hand, companies that use test tubes for blood collection typically require that a sample is mailed back Monday through Thursday or Friday in the morning.
You'll get your result in two to five days, and If positive, you can schedule a free phone consultation with a doctor to discuss treatment options and next steps. It's worth noting that MyLab Box only offers testing for HSV-2. Although most of the time, genital herpes is caused by HSV-2, but it's important to remember that you can get genital herpes from HSV-1.
Pros
Priority STD Testing
Cost: $189Tests for: HSV-1 and HSV-2Time for results: Three to five daysTest collection method: Urine and blood sample at labDoctor consultation available: Yes, consult fee is $65Accepts insurance: No, but reimbursement is availableFSA/HSA eligible: YesFree shipping: NA; lab collection
Most at-home herpes tests recommend waiting until a minimum of 12 days after suspected exposure to use the test. However, if you're looking to get tested as soon as possible for your own peace of mind, Priority STD offers an early detection herpes test, which can detect infection as early as 10 days after exposure.
Following infection, your body will produce certain antibodies — immunoglobulin G (IgG), which can take three to six weeks to appear, and immunoglobulin M (IgM), which is the first antibody to appear and takes up to 10 days. The early detection herpes test, then, uses IgM testing for the earliest possible way to determine whether or not you have HSV antibodies.
It's important to note that IgM antibodies may only last a few months and aren't always produced after the first outbreak, whereas IgG antibodies last a lifetime. Because of that, IgG tests are typically preferred, but if you need to find out ASAP, the IgM test will give you an immediate answer.
With Priority STD, you'll order your test online and then visit one of the company's 4,000 test centers. No appointment is necessary, and the process of getting tested — a blood and urine sample — takes about 15 minutes, and the results will be ready in three to five days. If your result is positive, you can schedule a phone consultation with a doctor for $65, but the company does not provide treatment for herpes. There is, however, the option to call and speak to one of the care counselors for free and discuss the next steps.
ProsHerpes is primarily detected in one of two ways: through antibodies in the blood or by the presence of the virus in a lesion. Urine tests are less common but can be used in combination with another sample method to ensure accuracy.
To date, there are not any fully at-home rapid tests that can detect the herpes virus, so all "at-home" tests require you to prepurchase the test online, then either collect the sample yourself and mail it to the lab in a prepaid shipping envelope, or visit a certified lab to have the sample specimen taken for you. Regardless of the option you choose, at-home herpes tests offer the ability to get tested without making an appointment with your primary care doctor or worrying about being underinsured and unable to get a test.
How we chose the best at-home herpes testTo find the best at-home herpes tests on the market today, we began by consulting with a panel of medical experts who specialize in sexual health, urology and reproductive and women's health. Our team then researched a broad spectrum of at-home HSV tests and rated each based on cost, types of herpes viruses tested, accuracy, collection method, and turnaround time. In addition, we considered the company's reputation and follow-up support. Specifically, we looked at whether or not the option for a health care consultation or treatment was available. After compiling the data, we narrowed down our list of the best of the best herpes tests according to specific testing needs, such as best if medical care were included in the cost of the test, budget, early detection and fast turnaround.
How to choose the best at-home herpes test for your needsChoosing the right herpes test for you is a personal decision and will depend on your specific needs. Before making a decision, it's a good idea to consider certain factors:
Type of test: HSV-1 is generally considered the virus responsible for oral herpes, whereas genital herpes is associated more with HSV-2. However, since genital herpes can come from either herpes virus, tests that look for both types of of the virus will be more accurate. On the other hand, tests that screen only for HSV-2 will be more cost-effective.
Collection method: Herpes can be detected using a blood sample or a swab of the lesion if an outbreak is present. According to Dr. Jill Purdie, board-certified ob/gyn and medical director of Pediatrix Medical Group, taking a swab of the sore itself is the most accurate type of test, but it's also more prone to user error than a blood sample. A swab sample also requires an active outbreak, whereas a blood test can determine whether or not you've been exposed to the virus even when an outbreak is not present.
Time until results: The last thing you want to do when getting an STD test is sit around and wait for the results. Certain tests offer shorter wait times, while others might take a bit longer. All the tests on this list have a turnaround time of between one and five days.
Medical support included: If you test positive, does the company offer any type of medical support? If a medical consultation is available, is it free or does it cost extra? Additionally, is treatment or a prescribing provider available?
Cost: Along with the cost of the actual test, consider whether or not there are additional fees for shipping, follow-up support and treatment options. Also, consider whether or not FSA/HSA payments are accepted.
Accuracy: For the most accurate results, look for a company that uses CAP- and CLIA-certified labs.
Privacy: Most at-home herpes tests don't accept insurance or require extensive identifying information outside of name and address, which can go a long way toward protecting your privacy. Additionally, look for a company that offers discreet shipping packaging.
Frequently Asked Questions What is herpes?Herpes is a virus that causes skin infections and painful sores on the body, primarily around the mouth and genital areas. Aleece Fosnight, a board-certified physician assistant specializing in sexual medicine, women's health, and urology, tells us: "There are several types of herpes including varicella-zoster, the virus responsible for chicken pox. But the herpes simplex virus – or HSV – comes in two forms:
How do you get herpes?HSV-1 is spread through skin-to-skin contact and saliva and mainly causes oral herpes — also known as cold sores. HSV-2, on the other hand, is usually spread through sexual contact resulting in genital herpes.
Although herpes is most contagious during an outbreak, herpes simplex 1 and 2 can also be transmitted when there are no visible sores or symptoms. And unlike most other STDs that can only be spread through bodily fluids, HSV 1 and 2 can be transmitted through close skin-to-skin contact.
"Both types of herpes can cause small, painful blisters around the site of the infection," says Dr. Rashid Bani, medical director at Your Sexual Health. Moreover, both types can infect your face or genitals. Although HSV-2 is responsible for most cases of genital herpes, you can get genital herpes from HSV-1 (and vice versa).
What are the first signs of herpes?Painful sores or blisters are the most common symptom of herpes, Purdie tells us. With oral herpes, there is typically just one blister, whereas genital herpes often appears in a cluster. Other common signs can include:
Fever or flu-like symptoms
Headaches
Body and muscle aches
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck or groin area
Tingling, burning or itching sensation
Unusual vaginal discharge
Painful urination
It's important to note, though, that not everyone who's infected with herpes will show symptoms. In fact, most people with HSV are asymptomatic and may not even realize they have it.
When should I test for herpes?You should get tested if you begin to experience symptoms or notice any sores around your genitals, says Hack. One exception would be if you've had sex with a partner who has genital herpes. In that case, it's important to remember that it can take time for your body to develop HSV antibodies. The incubation period for herpes is typically two to 12 days, but it can take even longer. In some cases, it can take up to 16 weeks or more for HSV to be detected in your blood, Fosnight says.
Are at-home herpes tests as accurate as in-person tests?Our experts agree that at-home tests are generally reliable when used correctly, so it's crucial you follow the directions for sample collection exactly as stated by the company.
While the most accurate way to detect herpes is through a viral culture or PCR test via a swab of the blister or lesion, "blood tests, which look for HSV antibodies in a blood sample, can be used if you don't have an active outbreak or sore," says Hack.
What should I do if my herpes test results are positive?If you test positive for herpes, the next step should be to consult a health care provider to discuss possible treatment options. While there is no cure, treatments are available to help speed up healing, prevent or shorten outbreaks and reduce the chances of spreading it to partners.
Your doctor may also advise getting retested after a positive test result, especially if you have no symptoms. "No HSV test is perfect, and false results can occur," says Hack. For example, one study found that herpes IgM testing resulted in many false positives for HSV-2 and many false negatives for HSV-1.
False negatives can occur if the infection is very new since your body hasn't developed the antibodies yet. On the other hand, false positives can occur due to cross-reactivity. Antibody tests can sometimes react to other viruses in the same family (e.G., HSV-1 or the varicella-zoster virus). In other words, you may test positive for herpes type 2 when, in fact, you only have type 1. Because of that, it's always a good idea to discuss your results and sexual history with a doctor.
Meet our expertsDr. Stephanie Hack, board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist
Dr. Jill Purdie, board-certified ob/gyn and medical director of Pediatrix Medical Group
Aleece Fosnight, a board-certified physician assistant specializing in sexual medicine
Dr. Dan Nayot, reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist
Dr. Tara Brandner DNP, FNP-C
Dr. Janet Choi, a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist and chief medical officer of Progyny
Dr. Rashid Bani, medical director at Your Sexual Health
View comments
Everything You Need To Know About Human Papillomavirus Infection
We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here's our process.
Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.
Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:Was this helpful?
HPV is the most common STI in the world, however, vaccines are available to prevent it.
What is human papillomavirus infection?
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a viral infection that's passed between people through skin-to-skin contact. There are over 100 varieties of HPV, more than 40 of which are passed through sexual contact and can affect your genitals, mouth, or throat.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI).
It's so common that most sexually active people will get some variety of it at some point, even if they have few sexual partners.
Some cases of genital HPV infection may not cause any health problems. However, some types of HPV can lead to the development of genital warts and even cancers of the cervix, anus, and throat.
The virus that causes HPV infection is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. Most people get a genital HPV infection through direct sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex.
Because HPV is a skin-to-skin infection, intercourse isn't required for transmission to occur.
Many people have HPV and don't even know it, which means you can still contract it even if your partner doesn't have any symptoms. It's also possible to have multiple types of HPV.
In rare cases, a mother who has HPV can transmit the virus to her baby during delivery. When this happens, the child may develop a condition called recurrent respiratory papillomatosis where they develop HPV-related warts inside their throat or airways.
Often, HPV infection doesn't cause any noticeable symptoms or health problems.
In fact, 90 percent of HPV infections (9 out of 10) go away on their own within two years, according to the CDC. However, because the virus is still in a person's body during this time, that person may unknowingly transmit HPV.
When the virus doesn't go away on its own, it can cause serious health problems. These include genital warts and warts in the throat (known as recurrent respiratory papillomatosis).
HPV can also cause cervical cancer and other cancers of the genitals, head, neck, and throat.
The types of HPV that cause warts are different from the types that cause cancer. So, having genital warts caused by HPV doesn't mean that you'll develop cancer.
Cancers caused by HPV often don't show symptoms until the cancer is in later stages of growth. Regular screenings can help diagnose HPV-related health problems earlier. This can improve outlook and increase chances of survival.
Learn more about HPV symptoms and infection.
Many men who contract an HPV infection have no symptoms, although some may develop genital warts. See your doctor if you notice any unusual bumps or lesions on your penis, scrotum, or anus.
Some strains of HPV can cause penile, anal, and throat cancer in men. Some men may be more at risk for developing HPV-related cancers, including men who receive anal sex and men with a weakened immune system.
The strains of HPV that cause genital warts aren't the same as those that cause cancer. Get more information about HPV infection in men.
It's estimated that 80 percent of women will contract at least one type of HPV during their lifetime. Like with men, many women that get HPV don't have any symptoms and the infection goes away without causing any health problems.
Some women may notice that they have genital warts, which can appear inside the vagina, in or around the anus, and on the cervix or vulva.
Make an appointment with your doctor if you notice any unexplained bumps or growths in or around your genital area.
Some strains of HPV can cause cervical cancer or cancers of the vagina, anus, or throat. Regular screening can help detect the changes associated with cervical cancer in women. Additionally, DNA tests on cervical cells can detect strains of HPV associated with genital cancers.
Testing for HPV is different in men and women.
WomenUpdated guidelines from the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommend that women have their first Pap test, or Pap smear, at age 21, regardless of onset of sexual activity.
Regular Pap tests help to identify abnormal cells in women. These can signal cervical cancer or other HPV-related problems.
Women ages 21 to 29 should have just a Pap test every three years. From ages 30 to 65, women should do one of the following:
Standalone tests are preferred over co-testing, according to the USPSTF.
If you're younger than age 30, your doctor or gynecologist may also request an HPV test if your Pap results are abnormal.
There are at least 14 strains of HPV that can lead to cancer. If you have one of these strains, your doctor may want to monitor you for cervical changes.
You may need to get a Pap test more frequently. Your doctor may also request a follow-up procedure, such as a colposcopy.
Cervical changes that lead to cancer often take many years to develop, and HPV infections often go away on their own without causing cancer. You may want to follow a course of watchful waiting instead of undergoing treatment for abnormal or precancerous cells.
MenIt's important to note that the HPV DNA test is only available for diagnosing HPV in women. There's currently no FDA-approved test available for diagnosing HPV in men.
According to the CDC, routine screening for anal, throat, or penile cancer in men isn't currently recommended.
Some doctors may perform an anal Pap test for men that have an increased risk for developing anal cancer. This includes men who receive anal sex and men with HIV.
Most cases of HPV go away on their own, so there's no treatment for the infection itself. Instead, your doctor will likely want to have you come in for repeat testing in a year to see if the HPV infection persists and if any cell changes have developed that need further follow-up.
Genital warts can be treated with prescription medications, burning with an electrical current, or freezing with liquid nitrogen. But, getting rid of the physical warts doesn't treat the virus itself, and the warts may return.
Precancerous cells may be removed through a short procedure that's performed at your doctor's office. Cancers that develop from HPV may be treated by methods such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery. Sometimes, multiple methods may be used.
There currently aren't any medically-supported natural treatments available for HPV infection.
Routine screening for HPV and cervical cancer is important for identifying, monitoring, and treating health problems that may result from HPV infection. Explore the treatment options for HPV.
Anyone who's had sexual skin-to-skin contact is at risk for HPV infection. Other factors that may put someone at an increased risk for HPV infection include:
If you contract a high-risk type of HPV, some factors can make it more likely that the infection will continue and may develop into cancer:
The easiest ways to prevent HPV are to use condoms and to practice safe sex.
In addition, the Gardasil 9 vaccine is available for the prevention of genital warts and cancers caused by HPV. The vaccine can protect against nine types of HPV known to be associated with either cancer or genital warts.
The CDC recommends the HPV vaccine for boys and girls ages 11 or 12. Two doses of the vaccine are given at least six months apart. Women and men ages 15 to 26 can also get vaccinated on a three-dose schedule.
Additionally, people between the ages of 27 and 45 who haven't been previously vaccinated for HPV are now eligible for vaccination with Gardasil 9.
To prevent health problems associated with HPV, be sure to get regular health checkups, screenings, and Pap smears. Read on to learn more about the pros and cons of HPV vaccination.
Contracting HPV doesn't decrease your chances of becoming pregnant. If you're pregnant and have HPV, you may wish to delay treatment until after delivery. However, in some cases, HPV infection can cause complications.
Hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy may cause genital warts to grow and in some cases, these warts may bleed. If genital warts are widespread, they may make a vaginal delivery difficult.
When genital warts block the birth canal, a C-section may be required.
In rare cases, a woman with HPV can pass it on to her baby. When this happens, a rare but serious condition called recurrent respiratory papillomatosis may occur. In this condition, children develop HPV-related growths in their airways.
Cervical changes can still occur during pregnancy, so you should plan to continue routine screening for cervical cancer and HPV while you're pregnant. Discover more about HPV and pregnancy.
Here are some additional facts and statistics about HPV infection:
Comments
Post a Comment