When most of us think of a yeast infection, we think of it in connection with women. However, the Candida albicans fungus (yeast) can cause infections in anyone of either gender, because it is present in all of our bodies. This will come as an unwelcome surprise to men, but hang on, because it gets worse. Guys, when you have sex with a woman who has yeast infection, she can easily pass it on to you.
Due to the specific hormones women have, they are more susceptible to yeast infections. Usually when a woman has an infection she will experience all of the uncomfortable symptoms that tell her what's going on. She'll know when it's necessary to take more precautions in having sex. However, there are times when she may experience such mild symptoms that she's unaware she even has a problem, so she can pass the infection on to a man without knowing it.
Most men don't even think about being concerned over getting a yeast infection, but it can happen. In fact, yeast infections of the penis are very common and seldom cause any symptoms in otherwise healthy men. During an active yeast infection in either partner, it is safer to avoid sex altogether. This practice will not only ensure that the infection won't be passed on, but it will also avoid more irritation which will make the condition last longer.
In order to know if you have a yeast infection, it will help if you know the symptoms. In women the most common symptoms are irritation, itching, redness, swelling, burning, and a whitish-grey discharge that has the consistency of cheese as well as a smell much like yeast or beer.
Men who are infected will show redness, irritation, and possibly white spots on the end of the penis. There may also be a white to yellow discharge present. It could be that after he has intercourse his penis will be sore. The better your overall health is, though, the milder the symptoms you'll experience.
Both men and women should see a physician if they are concerned that they might have yeast infection. Your doctor will be able to confirm the diagnosis and make suggestions for effective treatments. There are numerous prescription, over-the-counter and natural remedies for treating yeast infection available.
If one partner in a sexual relationship has yeast infection, both partners should get diagnosed and treated. Otherwise, the person who was treated and is now symptom-free will run the risk of getting it back from their untreated partner every time they have sex.
Yeast infections can be a nuisance and wreak havoc with your sex life, but with proper treatment and precautions, soon you'll both be healed up and back in action.
It is very important that you let your partner know of the risks involved. Sharing a tender moment is great, sharing an infection is not. Learn the facts and learn more about what options are available to you.
Wednesday, 19 January 2011
Saturday, 8 January 2011
Sexuality: straight, bisexual, lesbian or gay?
In your teenage years, your sexual feelings will start to develop and these feelings may continue to change. There are times when you might feel confused or worried about who you are sexually.
Most people at some point in their life fancy someone of the same sex. Finding someone attractive does not mean you are gay; these feelings are just part of natural sexual development.
It is important that you allow time for these feelings to develop and that you don't label yourself too early. It is okay to be unsure or to change your mind.
Sexualities
People attracted to the opposite sex are usually called straight, people largely attracted to people of the same sex are called gay or lesbian and people attracted to both men and women are called bisexual. It may be that you feel you don't fit into any of these categories as it often takes time to fully understand who you are and what sex you are attracted to.
Early sexual feelings often emerge during childhood and then develop once you reach adulthood. Sometimes your feelings change and sometimes they come out at a later stage.
At least one in ten people in the world are attracted to people of the same or both sexes. Remember, you are not alone feeling like this. There are some good resources available to help you through this difficult period of your life. See the list of web links below for further advice and support.
You are who you are
You may have been raised to think that everyone is 'straight', and you might be at the stage when you're not sure if this applies to you. Nobody knows what makes someone gay, lesbian or bisexual - you don't choose your sexuality, it's just part of who you are.
If you're worried about your sexuality, the most important thing to remember is not to panic. You are still the same person whatever your feelings. Try to be yourself and whatever your sexuality, it doesn't stop you doing well in your school, work or personal life.
The best thing to do is to take time to come to terms with your feelings - if you are gay, lesbian, bisexual or just unsure don't think you need to rush into 'coming out' or being open about your sexuality.
Take your time and don't feel under pressure to tell anyone. When you feel ready to discuss your feelings you may be scared of how people will react and whether or not they will treat you different. You could try confiding in someone you trust and get used to telling them before telling others. This will help to build your self-confidence and make you feel more positive. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable sharing this personal information about yourself - remember it is your choice whether and when you tell anyone.
Your age, culture and religion will play an important role in how you can accept and tell others of your sexuality. Unfortunately, some teenagers experience homophobia. People can be treated differently, bullied or assaulted because of their sexuality. This is because some people feel threatened by what they don't understand. Hurtful experiences can affect how you feel about yourself, your confidence and your studies so it is important that you have some support in coping with this.
When you have discovered your sexuality, you may find that it is different to that of your friends. You might not know anyone else who is gay, lesbian or bisexual. If so, think about mixing with people that are in the same situation - it might seem that you're the only person experiencing these feelings, but you aren't. What about contacting a group where you can meet people in the same situation?
There are many agencies both local and national that can help and support you and give you the advice you need. Have a think about contacting these - there will probably be a LGB (Lesbian Gay Bisexual) group near you. Take a look at the national websites listed.
Most people at some point in their life fancy someone of the same sex. Finding someone attractive does not mean you are gay; these feelings are just part of natural sexual development.
It is important that you allow time for these feelings to develop and that you don't label yourself too early. It is okay to be unsure or to change your mind.
Sexualities
People attracted to the opposite sex are usually called straight, people largely attracted to people of the same sex are called gay or lesbian and people attracted to both men and women are called bisexual. It may be that you feel you don't fit into any of these categories as it often takes time to fully understand who you are and what sex you are attracted to.
Early sexual feelings often emerge during childhood and then develop once you reach adulthood. Sometimes your feelings change and sometimes they come out at a later stage.
At least one in ten people in the world are attracted to people of the same or both sexes. Remember, you are not alone feeling like this. There are some good resources available to help you through this difficult period of your life. See the list of web links below for further advice and support.
You are who you are
You may have been raised to think that everyone is 'straight', and you might be at the stage when you're not sure if this applies to you. Nobody knows what makes someone gay, lesbian or bisexual - you don't choose your sexuality, it's just part of who you are.
If you're worried about your sexuality, the most important thing to remember is not to panic. You are still the same person whatever your feelings. Try to be yourself and whatever your sexuality, it doesn't stop you doing well in your school, work or personal life.
The best thing to do is to take time to come to terms with your feelings - if you are gay, lesbian, bisexual or just unsure don't think you need to rush into 'coming out' or being open about your sexuality.
Take your time and don't feel under pressure to tell anyone. When you feel ready to discuss your feelings you may be scared of how people will react and whether or not they will treat you different. You could try confiding in someone you trust and get used to telling them before telling others. This will help to build your self-confidence and make you feel more positive. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable sharing this personal information about yourself - remember it is your choice whether and when you tell anyone.
Your age, culture and religion will play an important role in how you can accept and tell others of your sexuality. Unfortunately, some teenagers experience homophobia. People can be treated differently, bullied or assaulted because of their sexuality. This is because some people feel threatened by what they don't understand. Hurtful experiences can affect how you feel about yourself, your confidence and your studies so it is important that you have some support in coping with this.
When you have discovered your sexuality, you may find that it is different to that of your friends. You might not know anyone else who is gay, lesbian or bisexual. If so, think about mixing with people that are in the same situation - it might seem that you're the only person experiencing these feelings, but you aren't. What about contacting a group where you can meet people in the same situation?
There are many agencies both local and national that can help and support you and give you the advice you need. Have a think about contacting these - there will probably be a LGB (Lesbian Gay Bisexual) group near you. Take a look at the national websites listed.
Friday, 7 January 2011
Sexuality: Essential Aspect Of Life
Our sexuality is certainly one of the most essential aspects of our life. It is the element of life we share with all other living things on this planet. Couples share wine, movies, vacations and bedrooms. Do couples also share sexual problems and solutions?
Everyone has troubles from time to time -- having desire, becoming aroused, reaching orgasm and feeling satisfied. It's normal. Sexual problems are common and treatable. Though, experts say the difficulty becomes a sexual dysfunction depending on how long the problem lasts, how you feel about it and how it affects your relationship.
Sexual Problems Causes
According to a study, 4 out of 10 women and 3 out of 10 men have sexual problems. It is estimated that as many as half of the sexual problems that spoil peoples lives and relationships are the result of insufficient knowledge. The sexuality of even very highly educated people is badly affected by a lack of sexuality knowledge resulting in beliefs in sexual myths or untrue "facts." Sometimes a rigid or fearful "sex education" in childhood from parent, teacher, church or media can affect very serious problems.
The most common sexual problems in men include premature ejaculation, problems in achieving or maintaining an erection (Erectile Dysfunction), and diminished or excessive sexual desire. According to National survey of Adult Sexual Behavior, 14-17% of men reported lack of interest in sex. Men over age 40 were two to three times as likely to report lack of interest compared to men under age 30. The most common problems in women include diminished sexual desire and problems in achieving a climax. Couples normally have problems because their levels of sexual interest are different.
Treatment of Sexual Problems
Part of restoring your sex life generally includes understanding your body and your emotional desires. If the problem is clearly connected to difficulties within a relationship, receiving professional assistance by a trained sex therapist or relationship counselor may greatly improve the sexual enjoyment within the relationship
Everyone has troubles from time to time -- having desire, becoming aroused, reaching orgasm and feeling satisfied. It's normal. Sexual problems are common and treatable. Though, experts say the difficulty becomes a sexual dysfunction depending on how long the problem lasts, how you feel about it and how it affects your relationship.
Sexual Problems Causes
According to a study, 4 out of 10 women and 3 out of 10 men have sexual problems. It is estimated that as many as half of the sexual problems that spoil peoples lives and relationships are the result of insufficient knowledge. The sexuality of even very highly educated people is badly affected by a lack of sexuality knowledge resulting in beliefs in sexual myths or untrue "facts." Sometimes a rigid or fearful "sex education" in childhood from parent, teacher, church or media can affect very serious problems.
The most common sexual problems in men include premature ejaculation, problems in achieving or maintaining an erection (Erectile Dysfunction), and diminished or excessive sexual desire. According to National survey of Adult Sexual Behavior, 14-17% of men reported lack of interest in sex. Men over age 40 were two to three times as likely to report lack of interest compared to men under age 30. The most common problems in women include diminished sexual desire and problems in achieving a climax. Couples normally have problems because their levels of sexual interest are different.
Treatment of Sexual Problems
Part of restoring your sex life generally includes understanding your body and your emotional desires. If the problem is clearly connected to difficulties within a relationship, receiving professional assistance by a trained sex therapist or relationship counselor may greatly improve the sexual enjoyment within the relationship
Becoming Comfortable With Your Sexuality
Female sexuality includes a broad range of behaviors and processes; these include sexual identity and sexual behavior, physiological, social, cultural, political, spiritual, and aspects of sex. The various aspects of female sexuality have been addressed by ethics, morality, and theology. In almost every historical era and culture a good portion of it is society’s views on sexuality, mostly implicitly or explicitly female sexuality.
Sexuality is a part of every woman’s life. All of our bodies have the potential to feel physical excitement and pleasure. Some women may choose to never be sexually active, but most women prefer to explore their sexual desires in one way or another. Having the freedom to choose how to express yourself sexually is an important part of every woman’s sexual health.
Sexual health also means understanding your body and how it works. Females who understand their bodies can make better choices about the sexual activities that they enjoy. Woman can also choose to become pregnant or they can choose to avoid it. Being educated about sexually transmitted diseases can help a female protect themselves and their partners from disease.
Sexual health also involves being comfortable with yourself and your sexual desires. It means having healthy relationships with others. Sexual health can also mean learning to identify and leave violent or abusive (physically or verbally) and learning to cope with the after effects of such relationships.
Sexual health is also about knowing and understanding sexual disorders as well. Sexual disorders are conditions that prevent people from having rich and fulfilling sexual relationships. These disorders involve problems related to things like sexual functioning, desire and or performance.
There are 3 main categories of sexual disorders; they are sexual dysfunctions, paraphilias, and gender identity disorders. Sexual dysfunctions are persistent or recurrent problems that occur during sexual response. Paraphilias involves behavior that most people find distasteful, unusual, or abnormal. It has a lot to do with psychological functioning. Gender identity disorders involve feelings of strong identification with the opposite sex.
Emotional, psychological, and physical factors can all contribute to the development of sexual disorders. Symptoms of some sexual disorders include lack of interest in or desire for sex, difficulty becoming aroused and pain during intercourse.
Treatment options vary depending on the nature of the suspected sexual disorder. In some cases, a physical problem can be treated with medical procedures. Medications and therapies can also be beneficial for some people. Alternative Health Supplements offers many different products for the sexual health of woman. All natural herbal supplements can be a safe alternative to other medications that may have severe side effects.
Often some sexual disorders can be prevented from happening in the first place. Parents who have communicated openly with children about sexuality and health concerns related prevents the children from developing anxiety and guilt that may lead to sexual disorders.
Open communication between sexual partners is very helpful in preventing disorders as well. Any woman who has experienced an abusive relationship is likely to develop a disorder and trauma if counseling and help is not received. Getting help for after such an issue can greatly prevent any sexual disorder from occurring.
Sexuality is a part of every woman’s life. All of our bodies have the potential to feel physical excitement and pleasure. Some women may choose to never be sexually active, but most women prefer to explore their sexual desires in one way or another. Having the freedom to choose how to express yourself sexually is an important part of every woman’s sexual health.
Sexual health also means understanding your body and how it works. Females who understand their bodies can make better choices about the sexual activities that they enjoy. Woman can also choose to become pregnant or they can choose to avoid it. Being educated about sexually transmitted diseases can help a female protect themselves and their partners from disease.
Sexual health also involves being comfortable with yourself and your sexual desires. It means having healthy relationships with others. Sexual health can also mean learning to identify and leave violent or abusive (physically or verbally) and learning to cope with the after effects of such relationships.
Sexual health is also about knowing and understanding sexual disorders as well. Sexual disorders are conditions that prevent people from having rich and fulfilling sexual relationships. These disorders involve problems related to things like sexual functioning, desire and or performance.
There are 3 main categories of sexual disorders; they are sexual dysfunctions, paraphilias, and gender identity disorders. Sexual dysfunctions are persistent or recurrent problems that occur during sexual response. Paraphilias involves behavior that most people find distasteful, unusual, or abnormal. It has a lot to do with psychological functioning. Gender identity disorders involve feelings of strong identification with the opposite sex.
Emotional, psychological, and physical factors can all contribute to the development of sexual disorders. Symptoms of some sexual disorders include lack of interest in or desire for sex, difficulty becoming aroused and pain during intercourse.
Treatment options vary depending on the nature of the suspected sexual disorder. In some cases, a physical problem can be treated with medical procedures. Medications and therapies can also be beneficial for some people. Alternative Health Supplements offers many different products for the sexual health of woman. All natural herbal supplements can be a safe alternative to other medications that may have severe side effects.
Often some sexual disorders can be prevented from happening in the first place. Parents who have communicated openly with children about sexuality and health concerns related prevents the children from developing anxiety and guilt that may lead to sexual disorders.
Open communication between sexual partners is very helpful in preventing disorders as well. Any woman who has experienced an abusive relationship is likely to develop a disorder and trauma if counseling and help is not received. Getting help for after such an issue can greatly prevent any sexual disorder from occurring.
Wednesday, 5 January 2011
Do I Have Genital Warts?-What Are the Symptoms
Thinking about genital warts can be a very touchy topic for many people, but if you suspect that you might have this condition, you will find that the more information that you have, the better. The truth of the situation is that they can be easily transmitted, so if you suspect that you might have genital warts, you need to find out as soon as possible.
You can recognize genital warts by looking for small flat bumps or tiny bumps that are clustered together. These bumps will be flesh colored and there may be one or there might be numerous bumps involved. For men, genital warts can grow near the anus, in the space between the penis and the scrotum or on the shaft or head of the penis itself. For women, genital warts can occur in the area between the anus and the vulva, on the vulva itself, in the vagina and on the cervix. It is important to keep in mind the fact that genital warts can vary in size, and that in some cases, they can be too small to see.
In both women and men, the condition known as hirsuties papillaris genitalis is one that is often confused for genital warts. This condition, which can occur in the same places as genital warts is actually simply a variation on anatomy and though they can be removed for aesthetic purposes, do not cause any harm at all. It can be problematic because even doctors can mistake the two. However, if you are concerned that you might have genital warts, you'll find that it is important to get treatment right away as they can lead to cancer of the cervix or on male genitalia.
Genital warts are caused by the spread of the human papillomavirus, which is abbreviated to HPV. It is important to remember that there are many different strains of HPV and that not all of them will cause genital warts. This condition is spread through sexual contact, and most cases of HPV occur through the act of anal, vaginal or oral sex with someone who is infected. While wearing condoms can lessen the chance of contracting the this condition, keep in mind the fact that condoms simply do not cover all of the skin involved.
Genital warts are typically diagnosed through examination by a doctor. A Pap smear for women can also detect genital warts on a woman's cervix. While the genital warts can be removed, the viral infection will remain, so warts can reoccur after treatment. When thinking about treatment, you will find that these warts can be frozen off, or treated in a number of different ways. A laser can be used to remove them, or they can be withered off with acid. Some genital warts need to be dealt with a few times before they are entirely gone; this is something that cannot be predicted with any degree of accuracy.
If you think that you might have genital warts, you will find that you need to take yourself to a doctor to be sure. This can lead to serious health problems later down the line, so take some time and make sure that you get the proper diagnosis. Genital warts are more common than you might think, and there are definitely treatments for them.
You can recognize genital warts by looking for small flat bumps or tiny bumps that are clustered together. These bumps will be flesh colored and there may be one or there might be numerous bumps involved. For men, genital warts can grow near the anus, in the space between the penis and the scrotum or on the shaft or head of the penis itself. For women, genital warts can occur in the area between the anus and the vulva, on the vulva itself, in the vagina and on the cervix. It is important to keep in mind the fact that genital warts can vary in size, and that in some cases, they can be too small to see.
In both women and men, the condition known as hirsuties papillaris genitalis is one that is often confused for genital warts. This condition, which can occur in the same places as genital warts is actually simply a variation on anatomy and though they can be removed for aesthetic purposes, do not cause any harm at all. It can be problematic because even doctors can mistake the two. However, if you are concerned that you might have genital warts, you'll find that it is important to get treatment right away as they can lead to cancer of the cervix or on male genitalia.
Genital warts are caused by the spread of the human papillomavirus, which is abbreviated to HPV. It is important to remember that there are many different strains of HPV and that not all of them will cause genital warts. This condition is spread through sexual contact, and most cases of HPV occur through the act of anal, vaginal or oral sex with someone who is infected. While wearing condoms can lessen the chance of contracting the this condition, keep in mind the fact that condoms simply do not cover all of the skin involved.
Genital warts are typically diagnosed through examination by a doctor. A Pap smear for women can also detect genital warts on a woman's cervix. While the genital warts can be removed, the viral infection will remain, so warts can reoccur after treatment. When thinking about treatment, you will find that these warts can be frozen off, or treated in a number of different ways. A laser can be used to remove them, or they can be withered off with acid. Some genital warts need to be dealt with a few times before they are entirely gone; this is something that cannot be predicted with any degree of accuracy.
If you think that you might have genital warts, you will find that you need to take yourself to a doctor to be sure. This can lead to serious health problems later down the line, so take some time and make sure that you get the proper diagnosis. Genital warts are more common than you might think, and there are definitely treatments for them.
Genital Herpes Symptoms and Treatment
Genital herpes is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases in the world today. It is caused by the herpes simplex virus. This is the same family of viruses that causes cold sores, shingles, and chicken pox.
Genital herpes is caused by infection with the herpes simplex2 virus (HSV2). HSV1 is the virus that causes cold sores on the lips and nose area. The herpes virus, however, is not too particular about the mucous membrane it calls home and will happily live in either the mucous membranes of the mouth and lip area or the reproductive tract. Because of this, oral genital contact can spread either HSV1, HSV2. Viral transmission can occur from the mouth to the genitals or from the genitals to the mouth. The blister type lesions caused by either virus are virtually identical.
Genital Herpes Symptoms
Sometimes after the initial infection there may be fever and general malaise as could be seen with any acute viral infection but this is not always apparent in all cases. In fact the symptoms of a genital herpes infection may not be known to you until you see some blisters on or around your genital area.
This is called an outbreak and is characteristic of the way the herpes virus acts in the body. There will be periods when the virus is dormant and none of the characteristic symptoms of genital herpes are present. Then there will be these outbreak periods where blisters appear in the genital area and may even extend to the anal area.
The blisters will act like any normal cold sore on the lips. They come up with an initial tingling, then grow larger and spread and eventually burst leaving an ulceration that will slowly heal on its own.
In men these blisters occur on or around the penis. In women the blisters may actually be in the vagina as well as on the surrounding genital area.
Symptoms of genital herpes will come and go but the virus stays with you forever. The number of outbreaks will gradually become less and less and in some cases, some people do not see outbreaks at all.
Diagnosis
You may not know you have contracted genital herpes until the first breakout of the blisters. Symptoms of genital herpes are so mild in some people they think they just have a skin irritation. The best thing to do is to be checked by a doctor so that you can get diagnosed properly.
Doctors can usually make the diagnosis based on inspection of the genital area as the lesions are quite specific in appearance. In some instances the doctor may take a swab on the blister fluid to see if it contains the virus.
Genital Herpes Treatment
There is no cure for genital herpes, however, it can be controlled so that you can live a normal sexually active life. Anti-viral medications are often prescribed at the first outbreak to knock back the infection and may be used for prolonged periods if outbreaks are frequent.
Other treatments for the discomfort of an outbreak are common sense measures such as wearing loose comfortable clothing, using cold compresses or soothing creams and ointments on the blisters.
A strong and healthy immune system is needed to keep the virus suppressed and to reduce the frequency of outbreaks. Health denying habits such as smoking, drug use, or toxic relationships will drain the resources of your immune system so your best method of treatment is to maintain good health. This would include eating whole nourishing foods, getting plenty of exercise, and managing stress.
Complications
Generally the herpes simplex virus is not considered a dangerous infection to persons who have a fully functioning immune system. The virus will be suppressed and outbreaks will not be common as long as the immune system is functioning well.
However, if the immune system becomes burdened or compromised in any way then outbreaks will be more likely to occur. This may happen during times of physical or emotional stress. If the immune system is comprised by other more serious illnesses such as HIV or cancer then the herpes virus can become more dangerous.
If the virus is directly transmitted to other areas such as the eyes, or the brain, complications can be very serious. This direct transmission can happen in a number of ways but the most common is during the birth process. The infant can become infected with the virus from contact with the mother's vagina during birth.
If you suspect you may have contracted a genital herpes infection see your doctor as soon as possible. Never have sex during an outbreak and never have unprotected sex. This means using a condom (either male or female type) during every sexual encounter even during oral sex.
Additionally you should always inform your partner of your herpes status. This is always the right thing to do.
Genital herpes is caused by infection with the herpes simplex2 virus (HSV2). HSV1 is the virus that causes cold sores on the lips and nose area. The herpes virus, however, is not too particular about the mucous membrane it calls home and will happily live in either the mucous membranes of the mouth and lip area or the reproductive tract. Because of this, oral genital contact can spread either HSV1, HSV2. Viral transmission can occur from the mouth to the genitals or from the genitals to the mouth. The blister type lesions caused by either virus are virtually identical.
Genital Herpes Symptoms
Sometimes after the initial infection there may be fever and general malaise as could be seen with any acute viral infection but this is not always apparent in all cases. In fact the symptoms of a genital herpes infection may not be known to you until you see some blisters on or around your genital area.
This is called an outbreak and is characteristic of the way the herpes virus acts in the body. There will be periods when the virus is dormant and none of the characteristic symptoms of genital herpes are present. Then there will be these outbreak periods where blisters appear in the genital area and may even extend to the anal area.
The blisters will act like any normal cold sore on the lips. They come up with an initial tingling, then grow larger and spread and eventually burst leaving an ulceration that will slowly heal on its own.
In men these blisters occur on or around the penis. In women the blisters may actually be in the vagina as well as on the surrounding genital area.
Symptoms of genital herpes will come and go but the virus stays with you forever. The number of outbreaks will gradually become less and less and in some cases, some people do not see outbreaks at all.
Diagnosis
You may not know you have contracted genital herpes until the first breakout of the blisters. Symptoms of genital herpes are so mild in some people they think they just have a skin irritation. The best thing to do is to be checked by a doctor so that you can get diagnosed properly.
Doctors can usually make the diagnosis based on inspection of the genital area as the lesions are quite specific in appearance. In some instances the doctor may take a swab on the blister fluid to see if it contains the virus.
Genital Herpes Treatment
There is no cure for genital herpes, however, it can be controlled so that you can live a normal sexually active life. Anti-viral medications are often prescribed at the first outbreak to knock back the infection and may be used for prolonged periods if outbreaks are frequent.
Other treatments for the discomfort of an outbreak are common sense measures such as wearing loose comfortable clothing, using cold compresses or soothing creams and ointments on the blisters.
A strong and healthy immune system is needed to keep the virus suppressed and to reduce the frequency of outbreaks. Health denying habits such as smoking, drug use, or toxic relationships will drain the resources of your immune system so your best method of treatment is to maintain good health. This would include eating whole nourishing foods, getting plenty of exercise, and managing stress.
Complications
Generally the herpes simplex virus is not considered a dangerous infection to persons who have a fully functioning immune system. The virus will be suppressed and outbreaks will not be common as long as the immune system is functioning well.
However, if the immune system becomes burdened or compromised in any way then outbreaks will be more likely to occur. This may happen during times of physical or emotional stress. If the immune system is comprised by other more serious illnesses such as HIV or cancer then the herpes virus can become more dangerous.
If the virus is directly transmitted to other areas such as the eyes, or the brain, complications can be very serious. This direct transmission can happen in a number of ways but the most common is during the birth process. The infant can become infected with the virus from contact with the mother's vagina during birth.
If you suspect you may have contracted a genital herpes infection see your doctor as soon as possible. Never have sex during an outbreak and never have unprotected sex. This means using a condom (either male or female type) during every sexual encounter even during oral sex.
Additionally you should always inform your partner of your herpes status. This is always the right thing to do.
Tuesday, 4 January 2011
Sexually Transmitted Diseases-Chlamydia
Chlamydia one of the most frequently reported sexually transmitted diseases in the North America. Estimates are that more than 89 million people worldwide are currently infected with the disease. It is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis.
Chlamydia can be transmitted through oral, vaginal, or anal sex. It can also be passed from a mother to her baby during a vaginal birth. Anyone who is sexually active is at risk for contracting chlamydia, and the greater the number of sexual partners, the greater the risk. Even close physical contact can cause transmission if bodily fluids are exchanged. Penetrating sex is not required to contract or spread chlamydia.
The chlamydia bacterium is similar to gonorrhea in the symptoms it produces and the way it is spread. Like gonorrhea, it can live in the cervix, urethra, throat, and rectum. Infected persons, both men and women, may lack any symptoms and can spread the disease unknowingly to other sexual partners.
Chlamydia symptoms (Men and Women)
Chlamydia symptoms usually become evident in one to three weeks after infection. However, chlamydia is one of the silent STDs because some people show no symptoms at all. It is estimated that about 75 percent of women and 50 percent of men exhibit no signs of the disease.
In women, chlamydia symptoms include vaginal discharge, burning or painful urination, abdominal pain, and lower back pain, pain during intercourse, fever, nausea, and vaginal bleeding between periods. In men, common symptoms include burning or painful urination, penile discharge, burning or itching around the opening of the penis, and swelling of the testicles.
Chlamydia Treatment
If used properly, antibiotics can completely cure this sexually transmitted disease. Chlamydia treatment can be achieved in a single dose with the antibiotic azithromycin. Another antibiotic that is commonly used is doxycycline but repeated doses over one week are required.
Although there is typically no resistance to antibiotics by the chlamydia bacterium, recent discoveries of antibiotic resistant strains have been made. It is unclear whether these strains are present in humans, and further research needs to be conducted. However, this could be an emerging problem for anyone who contracts or is at risk for contracting the disease.
Complications
When left untreated, this sexually transmitted disease can result in serious complications. PID occurs when the infection travels upwards into the female reproductive organs. This complication develops in nearly 40 percent of women who do not seek treatment. The damage caused by PID can lead to infertility, chronic pelvic pain, and potentially fatal ectopic pregnancies. Women infected with chlamydia are also up to five times more likely to contract HIV if exposed, than women with a healthy reproductive system.
Like gonorrhea, chlamydia is also responsible for an increased risk of premature birth. The infant is also likely to contract the infection while traveling through the birth canal. This can lead to serious eye injury or pneumonia. However, all newborns are treated with eye drops that kill the chlamydia bacteria to prevent serious damage to the eyes. This practice is routine because so many women carry the infection unknowingly and without symptoms.
In men, chlamydia complications are rarer, but can occur. Infection can spread to the epididymis, or the tube that carries sperm from the testes. This can lead to pain, fever, and in very rare cases, sterility. Other rare side effects of this sexually transmitted disease includes skin lesions, inflammation of the eyes, arthritis, and meningitis.
Prevention
As with all sexually transmitted diseases, chlamydia can be prevented most easily by abstaining from sexual intercourse completely, or engaging in sexual activity with one monogamous partner who has been tested and confirmed negative for the disease. Latex condoms, when used properly, can reduce the risk of transmission, although it cannot completely remove the risk.
To prevent the risk of serious complications, it is recommended that you undergo regular screenings for all STDs, including chlamydia. Any genital symptoms such as soreness, itching, burning, or bleeding, should be immediately evaluated by a qualified medical professional.
Chlamydia can be transmitted through oral, vaginal, or anal sex. It can also be passed from a mother to her baby during a vaginal birth. Anyone who is sexually active is at risk for contracting chlamydia, and the greater the number of sexual partners, the greater the risk. Even close physical contact can cause transmission if bodily fluids are exchanged. Penetrating sex is not required to contract or spread chlamydia.
The chlamydia bacterium is similar to gonorrhea in the symptoms it produces and the way it is spread. Like gonorrhea, it can live in the cervix, urethra, throat, and rectum. Infected persons, both men and women, may lack any symptoms and can spread the disease unknowingly to other sexual partners.
Chlamydia symptoms (Men and Women)
Chlamydia symptoms usually become evident in one to three weeks after infection. However, chlamydia is one of the silent STDs because some people show no symptoms at all. It is estimated that about 75 percent of women and 50 percent of men exhibit no signs of the disease.
In women, chlamydia symptoms include vaginal discharge, burning or painful urination, abdominal pain, and lower back pain, pain during intercourse, fever, nausea, and vaginal bleeding between periods. In men, common symptoms include burning or painful urination, penile discharge, burning or itching around the opening of the penis, and swelling of the testicles.
Chlamydia Treatment
If used properly, antibiotics can completely cure this sexually transmitted disease. Chlamydia treatment can be achieved in a single dose with the antibiotic azithromycin. Another antibiotic that is commonly used is doxycycline but repeated doses over one week are required.
Although there is typically no resistance to antibiotics by the chlamydia bacterium, recent discoveries of antibiotic resistant strains have been made. It is unclear whether these strains are present in humans, and further research needs to be conducted. However, this could be an emerging problem for anyone who contracts or is at risk for contracting the disease.
Complications
When left untreated, this sexually transmitted disease can result in serious complications. PID occurs when the infection travels upwards into the female reproductive organs. This complication develops in nearly 40 percent of women who do not seek treatment. The damage caused by PID can lead to infertility, chronic pelvic pain, and potentially fatal ectopic pregnancies. Women infected with chlamydia are also up to five times more likely to contract HIV if exposed, than women with a healthy reproductive system.
Like gonorrhea, chlamydia is also responsible for an increased risk of premature birth. The infant is also likely to contract the infection while traveling through the birth canal. This can lead to serious eye injury or pneumonia. However, all newborns are treated with eye drops that kill the chlamydia bacteria to prevent serious damage to the eyes. This practice is routine because so many women carry the infection unknowingly and without symptoms.
In men, chlamydia complications are rarer, but can occur. Infection can spread to the epididymis, or the tube that carries sperm from the testes. This can lead to pain, fever, and in very rare cases, sterility. Other rare side effects of this sexually transmitted disease includes skin lesions, inflammation of the eyes, arthritis, and meningitis.
Prevention
As with all sexually transmitted diseases, chlamydia can be prevented most easily by abstaining from sexual intercourse completely, or engaging in sexual activity with one monogamous partner who has been tested and confirmed negative for the disease. Latex condoms, when used properly, can reduce the risk of transmission, although it cannot completely remove the risk.
To prevent the risk of serious complications, it is recommended that you undergo regular screenings for all STDs, including chlamydia. Any genital symptoms such as soreness, itching, burning, or bleeding, should be immediately evaluated by a qualified medical professional.
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