STD Testing Updates

With COVID-19 dominating the news for the past few years, statistics about the high STD disease rates in the United States have flown under the radar. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released new data in its STD Surveillance report showing an alarming increase in STD outbreaks. 

While COVID-19 is still on our minds, we should not overlook the countless other viruses affecting average Americans. As government statistics show, STDs impact well above 110 million United States residents. A majority of these infections occur in cities with the highest STD rates in the country, where viruses can spread quickly.

The Most Prevalent STDs in the United States

Reports from U.S. cities with the most STDs show HIV, gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia to be the four most common diseases in urban areas within the United States. Examining each illness and the prevalence of the disease in major U.S. cities can help us understand how these STDs spread and what the average American should look out for when it comes to protecting their health. 

HIV 

HIV, which stands for human immunodeficiency virus, attacks the immune system, making it difficult for the body to protect itself. If untreated, it can develop into AIDS, which can be fatal in many cases. HIV does not have a cure and remains in an infected person for life. Although not all carriers experience symptoms, some common symptoms include fever, night sweats, rash, chills, and a sore throat. 

Gonorrhea 

Gonorrhea, caused by the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacteria, is an STD that infects the mucous membranes of the reproductive organs in men or women. The bacteria can cause extreme discomfort in the uterus, fallopian tubes, and urethra for women. Symptoms include discharge, anal discomfort, soreness, bleeding, and bowel pains. 

Syphilis

Syphilis, a bacterial infection that spreads through sexual contact, often develops as a painless sore on the genitals, mouth, or rectum. After infection, the bacteria spread through contact with the sores. Although we can treat early-stage syphilis with penicillin, a lack of treatment can lead to life-threatening complications that affect the heart, brain, and other organs. 

Chlamydia

Similar to gonorrhea, chlamydia are bacteria that attack human reproductive organs and inhabit the urethra, throat, rectum, or cervix. While women do not often experience symptoms, chlamydia can damage fallopian tubes and cause infertility, as well as lead to birthing complications.

Common symptoms of chlamydia include vaginal discharge, penis discharge, painful urination, discomfort during sex, testicular pain, and vaginal bleeding.

Getting an STD Test

Thousands of people, regardless of their sexual history, are unaware they have an STD. Due to increasing rates of STDs, sexually active Americans need to take precautionary measures. In conjunction with protection, STD testing is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself from the spread of these diseases. If caught early on, treatment can prevent life-threatening complications and chronic issues that can develop from infection.

Instead of waiting for symptoms to develop, taking a rapid STD test is a proactive step you can take to protect your health, especially if you think you may be at risk. 

At Rapid STD Testing, we understand the threat that STDs pose to your well-being. That’s why we provide same-day STD testing to help our patients keep track of their sexual health.

The Top 10 Cities in the U.S. with STDs

STDs can spread rapidly in areas with high population densities. With more people interacting daily, more opportunities arise for disease transmission. Because the statistics concerning STDs can be alarming, it may be helpful to know where these diseases have the highest rates of transmission within the U.S. So, what city has the highest STD rate? Below, we’ll rank the hardest-hit cities according to their transmission rates, from lowest to highest. 

Since HIV, gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia are the four most prevalent STDs, our statistics will cover the prevalence of these illnesses in each area in this list of cities. 

10. Fayetteville, NC

At number ten on our list, Fayetteville, NC, has an infection rate of 2,255 cases per 100,000 residents. Chlamydia ranks as the most common STD in the city, with gonorrhea following at nearly half the frequency. Notably, like several other cities with military bases on this list, Fayetteville, NC, has a large military personnel population, which may contribute to the high rates of STDs. 

Metro Population – 332,330

STD Cases per 100K People – 2,255

• HIV – 1,368
• Gonorrhea – 1,741
• Syphilis – 49 
• Chlamydia – 4,337

9. Knoxville, TN 

Number nine on our list, Knoxville, TN, has an infection rate of 2,314 per 100,000 residents. Like Fayetteville, the most common STD in the city is chlamydia, which constitutes the majority of STD cases in the area. 

Metro Population – 465,289 

STD Cases per 100K People – 2,314

• HIV – 960
• Gonorrhea – 1,626
• Syphilis – 34
• Chlamydia – 3,710

8. Montgomery, AL

Montgomery, AL, makes our list at number eight with an STD infection rate of 2,365 per 100,000 residents. Like the previous cities, chlamydia ranks as the most common STD in the city. Home to the Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base, Montgomery also has a large population of military personnel living within the city limits.

Metro Population – 225,763

STD Cases per 100K People – 2,365

• HIV – 1,470
• Gonorrhea – 1,226
• Syphilis – 75
• Chlamydia – 2,569

7. New York, NY

As the most populous city in the U.S., it comes as no surprise that New York, NY, made our list of cities with the highest STD rates. However, while New York City does contain the highest number of STD infections on our list, the number of cases is offset by its large population, which places it at number seven. 

Metro Population – 8,380,000

STD Cases per 100K People – 2,544

• HIV – 97,206
• Gonorrhea – 28,394
• Syphilis – 1,952
• Chlamydia – 74,014

6. Augusta, GA

Augusta, GA, makes our list at number six, with an STD infection rate of 2,596 per 100,000 residents. As one of the smallest cities on our list, Augusta contains a disproportionately high rate of syphilis cases relative to its population size.

Metro Population – 201,554

STD Cases per 100K People – 2,596

• HIV – 1,400
• Gonorrhea – 1,100
• Syphilis – 97
• Chlamydia – 2,636

5. Washington, DC

Although not technically a city (it’s a district), we’ve included Washington, DC, on our list at number five. D.C. has an STD infection rate of 2,771 cases per 100,000 residents. Chlamydia is the most prevalent and quickly spreading STD within the city’s boundaries.

Metro Population – 1,773,266

STD Cases per 100K People – 2,771

• HIV – 62
• Gonorrhea – 2,236
• Syphilis – 865
• Chlamydia – 17,589

4. Philadelphia, PA

Philadelphia, PA, has an STD infection rate of 2,827 cases per 100,000 residents. The most prevalent STDs in the city are chlamydia and HIV. The rate of HIV in Philadelphia is proportionally higher than most other cities on our list. 

Metro Population – 1,584,138

STD Cases per 100K People – 2,827

• HIV – 16,917
• Gonorrhea – 7,043
• Syphilis – 470
• Chlamydia – 20,354

3. San Francisco, CA

San Francisco, CA, makes our list at number three, with an infection rate of 3,150 cases per 100,000 residents. HIV is the most common STD in the city, with chlamydia being the second most common. 

Metro Population – 883,305

STD Cases per 100K People – 3,150

• HIV – 12,149
• Gonorrhea – 5,593
• Syphilis – 579
• Chlamydia – 9,505

2. Baltimore, MD

Baltimore, MD, comes in at number two on our list, with an infection rate of 3,707 cases per 100,000 residents. Like San Francisco, the most prevalent STD in Baltimore is HIV. 

Metro Population – 602,495

STD Cases per 100K People – 3,707

• HIV – 9,441
• Gonorrhea – 3,982
• Syphilis – 312
• Chlamydia – 8,602

1. Jackson, MS

As the number one city for STDs, Jackson, MS, has an infection rate of 4,281 cases per 100,000 people. With the highest rate of STDs out of American cities, Jackson also has one of the lowest populations on our list, which means that city residents have a higher likelihood of contracting STDs at some point in their life.

As a hotbed for STDs, Jackson has risen on our list from the number 15 city to the number 1 ranked city on our list. Chlamydia and HIV represent the bulk of infections, with gonorrhea coming in as the third-most-common STD.

Metro Population – 237,085

STD Cases per 100K People – 4,281

• HIV – 2,541
• Gonorrhea – 2,081
• Syphilis – 100
• Chlamydia – 3,984

If you live in one of the cities on this list or think you may be experiencing STD symptoms, you may want to consider taking regular STD tests to monitor your health. At Rapid STD Testing, we provide all the testing support you need to help you protect yourself and your loved ones from STDs. 

Government Intervention in Cities with the Highest STD Rates

Since the recent rise in STD rates across the country, the CDC has stepped up its efforts to combat the growing crisis. To promote sexual health, the federal government is working with medical experts, city officials, wellness clinics, and medical providers to provide Americans access to health care clinic sites in the hardest-hit areas.

The CDC has increased its STD surveillance in all fifty states, tracking the spread and transmission of some of the most common sexually transmitted illnesses. The effort focuses on linking patients with treatment clinics and addressing the disproportionately high rates of STDs in minority and youth communities. In cities like Los Angeles, clinic closures have contributed to the nearly 80% increase in syphilis cases among residents. 

As part of this initiative, the CDC has allocated funding to train disease intervention specialists (DIS), who will be responsible for tracking and spreading awareness in populations where residents have a high likelihood of exposure to STDs. With over 1,600 DIS agents already in the field, their efforts and impact are only increasing.  

As the first step to controlling this epidemic, the CDC recommends frequent STD testing for sexually active adults.

Thankfully, tests are widely available. Rapid STD Testing provides comprehensive 10-panel STD tests that cover all major STDs. Knowing the status of your sexual health can be the first step to getting the treatment you need. 

Combating the STD Epidemic One Test at a Time

At Rapid STD Testing, our company is at the forefront in rapid STD testing technology. We’ve helped countless residents across the U.S. and in cities with the highest STD rates.

Protect your health today by ordering an STD test. Call us at (866) 872-1888 to find out more about our comprehensive testing options.

Sexually transmitted diseases, or STDs, affect people from all walks of life, from health care professional workers to prison inmates. STD infection rates in the U.S., particularly in the prison system, create serious concerns for all citizens. According to a study by Theodore M. Hammett, Ph.D., almost 25% of HIV cases in the U.S. pass through the correctional system. 

After hearing this troubling statistic, many want to know, “Do inmates get tested for STDs?” This question requires a more complex answer than a simple yes or no, so our experts from Rapid STD Testing explain everything you need to know below.  

Are Inmates Tested for STDs?

The only way to diagnose an STD is through testing. People outside the prison system can order a Rapid STD test online from companies like Rapid STD Testing or visit a local clinic. Inmates, however, cannot determine their infectious status or obtain medical treatment without confirmed test results. 

If you’re wondering, “are inmates tested for STDs?” the answer is sometimes, depending on the location and particular disease.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) conducted a research study in 2008 that examined the prevention programs and testing procedures at 14 of the country’s largest correctional facilities. The examination found that while the positive chlamydia rates were high across the board, only five of the 14 jails offered comprehensive chlamydia testing programs. Among the four facilities mentioned above that offered testing, only half provided medical care to those with positive results. 

The U.S. Department of Justice found that 21% of prisoners have infectious diseases, including STDs. Among all STD-positive inmates, only a portion receive adequate testing and treatments. 

Do Prisoners Get Tested Before Release?

Not all states require mandatory testing for STDs for all prisoners before their release date. A comprehensive and enforced pre-release testing program could drastically reduce the spread of STDs to the general public. 

Do facilities offer testing at intake? Not always. Sometimes people seek correctional facilities for the sole purpose of needing medical attention and tests, though they don’t always receive such help. 

What Are the Prevalent STDs in the U.S. Prison System

What STDs do jails test for? Chlamydia, trichomonas, syphilis, HIV, and viral hepatitis are the most prevalent STDs in the U.S. prison system, and therefore, the CDC recommends that facilities test for these infections. 

Chlamydia

Do inmates get tested for STDs like chlamydia? Facilities often complete chlamydia panels case-by-case, meaning they only test inmates who show signs of the infection. Unfortunately, many people carry chlamydia asymptomatically, spreading the disease without showing symptoms. 

Young, sexually active women experience the greatest risks of contracting chlamydia. When groups of unknowingly infected individuals enter the small quarters of a prison system, the infection rates may increase significantly. The CDC recommends that all women under 35 and men under 30 receive chlamydia screenings during intake. 

Trichomonas

A study done on a group of inmates from an Ohio prison found that after a mandatory STD blood test of all inmates before release, the most common STD among participants was trichomonas. Of the 916 inmates, 19 contracted trichomonas during their time in prison. 

Trichomonas is a parasitic infection spread through contact between sexual partners. Usually, women show symptoms, and men don’t. Untreated trichomonas can lead to pregnancy complications and other health concerns. 

The CDC recommends that all females under 35 receive trichomonas intake testing with an option to opt out. Treatment for trichomonas is straightforward and costs as little as $30. 

Syphilis

In June 1990, New York City endured a syphilis epidemic that led to mandatory testing across all local jails. At just one of these locations, 3.3% of new inmates tested positive. For the rest of the decade, syphilis rates declined until early 2001, when the previous 2.1% per every 100,000 infection rate increased to 2.2%.  

That same year, the CDC found alarming rates of 10.5% for women and 5.1% for men in Texas correctional facilities. Most men who tested positive contracted syphilis through sex with other men. The CDC recommends that jails and prisons offer opt-out screening for syphilis based on the local area’s concern for the infection. 

HIV

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) spreads through bodily fluids, including blood and genital secretions, and begins asymptomatic before progressing into a serious medical concern. If HIV develops into AIDS, the body may struggle to fight off various infections. Many HIV-positive inmates don’t learn about their condition until receiving tests in jail. 

While HIV is a sexually transmitted disease, it also commonly spreads through non-sexual contact, like sharing needles. Anyone with continuous drug abuse patterns has an increased risk of contracting and spreading the virus. 

Do inmates get tested for STDs like HIV? Sometimes. The CDC recommends testing all inmates upon arrival for HIV and offering support materials for high-risk behavior inmates upon release. 

Viral Hepatitis

Viral hepatitis is an inflammatory infection that causes liver damage. The infection spreads through the ingestion of fecal matter, which can happen during sexual contact. Depending on the local prevalence, the CDC recommends screening all intake inmates for hepatitis A, B, and C and offering vaccinations for anyone at risk. 

If you’re concerned about any of the above STDs, order a 10-panel STD test online from Rapid STD Testing or visit a local clinic. 

Why Are Prisoners at a Higher Risk of STDs?

A study in Brooklyn, New York, found that inmates incarcerated for under a year had a 30% increased risk of contracting an STD, while those held for over a year had a 40% increase. Why? Out of the 465 inmates in the study, 343 had sexual intercourse. 

People in prison are more at risk of STDs because of the unsafe and unsanitary conditions, close quarters, and increased contact with other infected individuals. The Brooklyn study discovered that those incarcerated for under a year had increased chances of having sex with an infected partner. 

The issue is, if you ask any correctional facility in the country, “do prisoners get tested for STDs?” the answer won’t always be yes. A lack of testing correlates directly with an increased infection spread rate. When people don’t know about their condition, they continue participating in activities that put themselves and their partners at risk of contracting dangerous diseases. 

Often, facilities that provide testing don’t know how to respond properly to results. Some positive inmates don’t receive medical treatment for their condition. Certain facilities segregate HIV-positive inmates from others, blocking them from recreational activities, and offering zero medical privacy. 

Aside from consensual sexual contact, STDs also spread through drug abuse and sexual assault, which frequently occur inside correctional facilities. Sharing needles is an enormous risk factor for spreading HIV and other STDs. Drug addicts often don’t receive the necessary resources inside or outside correctional facilities to help with their addiction or educate them on safe practices. 

Facilities can reduce the high STD risks prisoners face by offering testing programs, sanitary devices, and educational materials. 

Government Response and Results

Recent history and expanded testing policies have shown that the government attempted to make inmate STD testing an available, if not mandatory, process. However, certain restrictions make such an improvement difficult. 

Do They Do STD Testing in Jail?

Mandatory screenings may infringe upon constitutional rights, and many facilities lack the resources to fund these programs in prison. 

In May 2005, the Texas Legislature passed a bill to enforce mandatory HIV testing in Houston, which began the discussion of offering condoms to inmates. While the Texas Department of Criminal Justice refused this idea, Philadelphia and San Francisco both started distributing condoms in 2006 to combat STD spreading. Similar mandatory testing programs faced legal complications and eventually fizzled out. 

As a better recourse, many facilities now use an opt-out approach, offering all inmates optional testing. In 2010, the Cook County jail adopted this opt-out HIV testing method, which it had tried years prior but lost the funding because the previous attempt received a class-action lawsuit for forcing people to take invasive tests.

Today, the CDC recommends adopting the opt-out screening approach across all correctional facilities. Better educational resources could also reduce widespread epidemic risks. For example, many don’t know the answers to the following questions:

• Is giving someone an STD illegal? 
• Can you contract an STD while using a condom?
• Do you always show symptoms of an STD?

Schedule Your Test with Rapid STD Testing

Let’s return to the initial question: Do inmates get tested for STDs? Sometimes they do, though the CDC and other government actions show that correctional facilities might adopt more comprehensive policies soon. 

If you think you may have been exposed to an STD, you can order same-day STD testing online from Rapid STD Testing. Call our team at (866) 872-1888 or visit our website to find a clinic near you.

Most active-duty Armed Forces members are under 30, and many are 25 or younger. STDs and their long-term effects are a major concern for this age group.

The Department of Defense implements a range of policies to address the sexual health of military personnel. Education programs and military treatment facilities provide vital information, promote STD awareness, and encourage early screening and treatment.

Can you join the military with an STD, does the military test for STDs before deployment, and how can you get a rapid STD test? Find out all you need to know about military STD testing.

Does the Military Test for STDs?

U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force military towns have some of the highest STI rates in the United States. Unsurprisingly, STD prevalence peaks among young populations living on large military bases. For instance, Montgomery, Alabama, and Augusta, Georgia – homes to Maxwell Air Force Base and Fort Gordon, respectively – rank among the top 10 U.S. cities with the highest STD rates.  

STD cases are rising within the U.S. population, including military personnel. Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis are all significantly more common among service members compared to a decade ago. According to the AFHSB (Armed Forces Health Surveillance Branch), the rates of gonorrhea, chlamydia, and genital herpes are highest in the Army. HPV cases are most prevalent among Air Force members, while syphilis is most widespread in the U.S. Navy.

The Army invests major resources into STD prevention and treatment. This includes STD testing, which is mandatory for all prospective personnel before going into training as well as for active service members. Military personnel get HIV screenings once in two years at least, and females 26 and younger undergo an annual chlamydia test.

To enlist in the military, the prospective member must produce a negative HIV test. HIV carriers or people who refuse the testing cannot join the U.S. Armed Forces.

What STDs Does the Military Test For?

STDs are a serious health concern for military service members. To protect the long-term sexual and general physical health of its personnel, the U.S. Army supplies a broad range of resources like prevention programs, education about sexual practices, and widespread military STD testing.

Military facilities routinely test and treat service members for the following STIs.

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a common infection that targets both men and women. Chlamydia spreads through vaginal, oral, and anal sex, as well as from mother to infant during childbirth. If left untreated, chlamydia can cause permanent reproductive system damage, infertility, and ectopic pregnancy.

Chlamydia is often asymptomatic, so getting tested is the only reliable way to uncover an infection. Chlamydia treatment typically includes a course of antibiotics.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is another common STI. The gonorrhea bacterium spreads during vaginal, anal, and oral sex and also to babies of infected mothers during childbirth.

Gonorrhea symptoms usually appear in the genital tract and include painful urination, swelling, or unusual discharge. Women may also experience bleeding between periods and pelvic or abdominal pain. Untreated gonorrhea can cause widespread infections and infertility, so testing is vital to prevent complications.

Hepatitis A, B, and C

Hepatitis, a viral infection affecting the liver, can lead to potentially fatal complications like cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver failure. Hepatitis A, B, and C can spread through unprotected sexual activity, sharing needles and syringes, and (with hepatitis A) contaminated food and water.

Vaccines are available for hepatitis A and B, but not hepatitis C. Early screening and treatment can help prevent irreversible liver damage.

HIV

HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, targets immune system cells and makes the infected person vulnerable to diseases and infections. The virus most commonly spreads through unprotected vaginal or anal sex and through shared injecting equipment.

While there is no cure for HIV, effective treatment options allow most HIV carriers to live long, normal lives. Treatment outcomes depend in a great measure on early diagnosis, which makes regular HIV screening so important.

Syphilis

Syphilis, a bacterial infection spread through sexual contact, can remain dormant for decades. Without proper treatment, syphilis can lead to life-threatening heart, brain, and organ damage.

Syphilis usually responds well to penicillin. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are vital to avoid serious physical health consequences.

What Happens if You Get an STD in the Military?

Let’s say you contract an STD during active service. What next? First, get treatment as quickly as possible. Second, act responsibly and let your partner (or partners) know about your condition.

A service member who knowingly passes an STD to an intimate partner could still face administrative penalties or nonjudicial punishment (NJP). Charges for STD transmission are typically more serious if the STD is potentially deadly (like HIV) or if the transmission happens in conjunction with sexual assault or other misconduct.

HIV-infected service members who have unprotected sex without disclosing their condition may face an aggravated assault conviction. Knowingly engaging in unprotected sex during an active outbreak of genital herpes, without warning your partner, could also lead to aggravated assault charges.

Military STD Disqualifications

In the past, contracting HIV meant an end to a service member’s military career. Today, with advanced treatment options and proper precautions, HIV-infected personnel can continue their active service.

Most common STDs, like chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, crabs, or syphilis don’t disqualify a person from active military service. However, undiagnosed and untreated STDs can lead to long-term health damage that could eventually end a service member’s military career.

The potentially devastating consequences of untreated STDs underline the importance of early screening. In most cases, active-duty service members must be proactive about STI testing.

Blood testing in hospitals for STD rarely happens unless the patient requests a screening. The best way to protect yourself and your partners is reliable same-day STD testing and early treatment.

Resources for Service Members

Military service members often avoid discussing their sexual health or getting timely screenings because of the embarrassment and social stigma attached to STDs. It is important to know that STIs affect everyone. You can get an STD diagnosis even if you are in a long-term monogamous relationship.

Fortunately, military service members who want to achieve better sexual health and safer sex practices can access many resources and educational programs, such as:

• Army Public Health: A resource that focuses on STD and HIV prevention and women’s sexual health, including reproductive health and contraception
• SHARP (Navy & Marine Corps Sexual Health and Responsibility Program): Provides comprehensive resources on STD prevention, contraception, and more
• Targeted programs for the LGBTQ community in the military, like the Gay and Bisexual Men’s Sexual Health and Lesbian’s and Bisexual Women’s Health programs

Despite available military STD screening options, shame or self-consciousness may prevent service members from getting tested in military facilities. Independent outside testing can deliver quick, reliable results and protect your privacy more fully than military STD testing.

Rapid STD Testing runs a network of over 2,500 Test Centers that provide fast, accurate, and discreet screenings for all common STIs, with recommendations for confidential treatment.

Protect Your Sexual Health With Quick and Discreet STD Testing

Do you suspect you may have an STD? Did you have unprotected sex and need to be on the safe side to protect yourself and your partners? Get fast, confidential STI screening with Rapid STD Testing. Visit an STD testing center near you or order a 10-panel STD test today.

In 2018, 1 in 5 people in the U.S. had a sexually transmitted infection (STI), and half of those cases were among teens and young adults. STD rates among teens are much higher than in other population groups, likely due to a lack of access to education and resources on sex and STDs. 

At Rapid STD Testing, we want to help educate teens and adults about STIs and STDs to lessen the stigma. Knowing about STDs can help prevent you from acquiring severe health issues from untreated infections.

In this article, we provide teen STD facts, statistics on STDs, information on the most common STD among teens, and a guide on how to avoid infections. 

Differentiating Between STDs and STIs

The terms sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) sound similar, and many people use them interchangeably. However, they technically have different meanings. STIs are infections (bacteria, viruses, etc.) that could develop into diseases without timely treatment. As the pathogens spread, they begin to affect bodily functions and become STDs. 

Some STIs, like the human papillomavirus (HPV), might go away on their own without developing severe symptoms and turning into an STD. The HPV vaccine can also prevent them. Some medical professionals consider STI a more accurate term than STD since many of the most common infections, such as chlamydia, can be asymptomatic. 

A comprehensive 10-panel STD test can detect infections you might not realize you have.

STD Statistics in Teens

Half of the 26 million new STDs in the U.S. in 2018 were in young people aged 15 to 24. Teens have a higher risk of contracting STDs because of a lack of sex education, little access to STD testing resources, and unsafe sex practices (like not using a condom). Teenage girls are the most vulnerable to contracting STDs. 

The most common STDs in girls between 14 and 19 years old are HPV, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, and genital herpes. Young women are more susceptible to contracting STDs and developing serious health complications, such as cervical cancer and infertility. 

Many teens avoid talking to their parents or doctors about symptoms because of the stigma and the myths regarding STDs.

STIs are infections passed through bodily fluids, touching, kissing, etc., similar to the way people contract a cold or flu. Despite how common they are, teens have a negative view of people who catch STDs. Too embarrassed to speak up when they find their own symptoms, they let their infections evolve into severe symptoms. 

Chlamydia is one of the most common STIs, but 70% to 95% of women and 90% of men experience no symptoms, making it difficult to know when they need to see a doctor. Most cases are in teens and young adults, with teen girls having the highest number of infections. 

An untreated chlamydia infection can permanently damage the uterus, causing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or infertility. Pregnant women can also pass the STI onto their babies. Among those infants, 30% to 40% develop symptoms, such as pneumonia.

Complications like these are why it’s vital for teens to learn how to have safe sex and avoid STIs and teen pregnancy.

A combination of poor sexual education and the absence of access to testing and treatment makes teens more vulnerable to STDs. Only 20% of sexually-active teenagers report that they’ve ever gotten an STD test, even though around 40% of all teens are sexually active with at least one sex partner. 

If you need access to fast and confidential STD testing, browse our options for rapid STD tests. 

What Is the Most Common STD in Teenagers?

The most common STD among teens is HPV, followed by chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, genital herpes, PID, and syphilis. Most of them are curable through antibiotics or other medicine, but some infections never go away. Below, we’ll give you the rundown on the most common STDs in teenagers. 

HIV

HIV is a virus that can lead to AIDs, which severely impacts your body’s immune function. This weakness puts you at higher risk if you contract serious diseases like pneumonia or tuberculosis.

Most people who contract HIV are asymptomatic, but some experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, and fatigue. Most HIV infections spread through sexual activities and sharing needles for drug injections.

While HIV doesn’t have a cure, medication and treatment allow infected individuals to live a long, healthy life and prevent spreading the disease to others. 

HPV and HSV

Most sexually active people will contract human papillomavirus (HPV) at some point in their lives, and it’s the most common STD in teenagers. 

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) and HPV spreads through contact during sex, infecting the genitals, mouth, or throat. Many people have no symptoms, but some will develop genital warts (HPV) or sores (HSV). Herpes has no cure, but medication can manage outbreaks. On the other hand, HPV usually disappears on its own within a couple of years. The HPV vaccine is the best way to prevent infection. 

Gonorrhea

Individuals with gonorrhea often have few or no symptoms. They might experience white or yellow discharge from their genitals or painful urination. Men could have swollen testicles, and women might notice spotting between periods or pelvic pain. 

Without antibiotics, gonorrhea can lead to severe health conditions like PID and infertility. The infection spreads during vaginal, anal, and oral sex, and a mother could pass it to her infant during childbirth.

Genital Herpes

Genital herpes comes from the HSV-2 virus and is highly contagious. Coming into contact with the sores that the infection causes is enough to contract herpes, whether it’s through touching, kissing, or sexual contact. Though you can catch it easily, it can be hard to tell when you do because there are often no signs or symptoms. 

Those who do experience symptoms have blisters on their genitals, mouth, buttocks, or anus. Similar to HSV-1, there’s no cure, but medication can manage the side effects and prevent outbreaks in the future.

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that usually has no symptoms. However, some people might have discharge from the penis or vagina and painful urination. The STI spreads through contact with the genitals, mouth, or anus during sex with an infected person. 

Antibiotics clear up the infection, but it’s possible to contract it again in the future. If you don’t get treatment for chlamydia, it can lead to infertility or PID in women. 

Syphilis

The bacteria that cause syphilis can spread during sex through sores that develop on the genitals, lips, and mouth. Symptoms can start showing months after infection and could last for years without antibiotics. The typical signs are genital sores and rashes on your hands or feet. 

If syphilis reaches the later stages, symptoms can progress to paralysis, brain damage, blindness, and death. It’s crucial for sexually active people to get routine screenings to avoid letting syphilis and other STDs go undetected. 

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a complication of untreated STDs, usually chlamydia and gonorrhea. If the bacteria spread to the reproductive organs of an infected woman, she might experience symptoms including the following:

• Abdominal pain
• Fever
• Painful intercourse or urination
• Vaginal discharge
• Spotting

Teen STD Prevention Guide 

With the high rates of STDs in teens, young people need to know how to stay safe and take care of their reproductive health. Sexual health services can provide education, support, and testing, but many teenagers either hesitate to make the first move or don’t know how.

All states in the U.S. allow minors to consent to STI testing services, though some require the teen to be a certain age (typically between 12 and 14). Teenagers should take advantage of these services to avoid the extreme consequences of ignoring STD symptoms. In some cases, untreated STDs can lead to infertility, inflammatory diseases, weakened immune function, or death. 

Most treatments for STDs involve taking a course of antibiotics or other medications that won’t disrupt your daily life. Some STDs have no cure, but you should still see your doctor to manage your symptoms and prevent complications. 

Some children and teens could contract STDs through nonconsensual sexual behaviors. If a young person has experienced abuse, they should receive STD screening immediately so they can begin treatment for any infections. 

Break the STD Stigma–Get Tested Before You Develop Life-Changing Symptoms

STD rates among teens and adolescents are shockingly high, but many young people refuse to talk about their experiences due to shame. This hesitation can cause teens to experience severe side effects from untreated STDs. We can combat this by ensuring that all young adults receive proper education on the most common STD among teens and receive access to STI health and testing services. 

At Rapid STD Testing, we provide fast, secure same-day STD testing services near you. Visit our website to order tests or find a local lab.

Most people are familiar with common sexually transmitted diseases, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, and herpes. However, what you may not know is that there are also hundreds of rarer STDs that, if left untreated, can have devastating consequences for your health. 

Knowing about diseases such as granuloma inguinale, also known as donovanosis, can help you seek treatment sooner and prevent its spread to your sexual partners.

The Cause of Granuloma Inguinale (aka Donovanosis)

Granuloma inguinale, aka donovanosis, is the result of a Klebsiella granulomatis infection. The bacteria penetrate and eat the cell but grow relatively slowly, meaning that disease progression can take up to 12 weeks to reach its peak. 

Donovanosis is a sexually transmitted infection contractable through anal or vaginal sex with an infected partner. We know of some instances of patients developing oral lesions, but these are usually secondary symptoms, with the primary lesions growing on the genitals. Due to its rarity, most same-day STD testing kits do not test for this disease.

Symptoms of Granuloma Inguinale

Granuloma inguinale symptoms generally start as mild, but if left untreated, the disease can wreak havoc on your genital area. The infection can result in extensive blood and mucous leakage from open sores and potentially fatal secondary infections by other pathogens.

Stage One

The first stage of granuloma inguinale or donovanosis starts with a small pimple or lump in the genital region. The bump will spread and become pink or faintly red. The bumps eventually turn into raised red nodules that are painless but will bleed profusely if scratched or disrupted.

Stage Two

During the second stage, the bacteria continue eating away at the surrounding tissue and will start attacking the epidermis. This attack leads to shallow ulcers that spread from the initial area into the rest of the genital area, even extending into the thighs and lower abdomen. 

At this point, the ulcers develop a granular-looking halo of tissue while the inner part of the ulcer starts to weep or bleed frequently. This granulation tissue contains higher amounts of Donovan bodies, which are granular cellular components that form as a response to the infection.

Stage Three

The final stage is a deepening of the lesions and formation of scar tissue. In extreme examples, the disease can eat away enough flesh to cause severe injuries in affected individuals.

Five Main Types of Donovanosis Ulcer

A donovanosis ulcer can present in several unique ways, affecting diagnostic and treatment considerations.

Ulcerogranulomatous or Ulcerovegetative

The most common clinical presentation of this genital ulcerative disease, ulcerogranulomatous granuloma inguinale, starts with a single lesion or multiple hard, small pimple-like lesions that turn into soft, painless ulcers. These ulcers bleed easily and eventually develop sharp margins with rolled borders and a red granular base. Left untreated, these ulcers will continue to grow. 

Hypertrophic

Hypertrophic ulcers are much bigger than a traditional donovanosis ulcer. These lesions look like walnuts and result from large masses growing into each other.

Necrotic Ulcers

In most cases, granuloma inguinale ulcers contain living tissue, so the ulcers bleed heavily when injured. In some situations, the tissue in the ulcers starts to die, resulting in secondary infections and deep, foul-smelling ulcers.

Fibrous Ulcers

Fibrous ulcers contain large amounts of scar tissue and tend to develop during the later stages of the disease.

Nodular Type

Nodular donovanosis presents as a mixture of small, firm lesions (papules) and larger nodules that are soft, red, and contain small amounts of granulation tissue.

Diagnosing Donovanosis (Granuloma Inguinale)

Unlike many common STDs, donovanosis doesn’t have a rapid STD test to make an accurate and fast diagnosis. Since the initial bumps are small and painless, most people wait until the second or third stage before contacting their healthcare professional. 

Since Klebsiella granulomatis is difficult to grow in the lab, doctors rely on microscopy to make a diagnosis. In most cases, the presence of Donovan bodies in the granular tissue is enough to confirm the diagnosis.

Flesh-Eating STD Treatment Options and Prevention

The most common treatment for granuloma inguinale is a course of antibiotics for a minimum of three weeks, or until the lesions heal. Individuals should not participate in sexual activity during their treatment, and most doctors also recommend follow-up testing to confirm a complete recovery before starting sexual intercourse (Learn whether giving someone an STD is illegal). 

Like almost all other STDs, safe-sex practices can reduce the chance of catching donovanosis. Thankfully, most cases of granuloma inguinale occur in tropical areas, such as South East Asia, India, and South America, with only rare cases reported in the United States. 

However, while your risk of catching this flesh-eating STD may be low, your risk of catching more common STDs is significantly higher, and it’s vital to take the necessary precautions.

Test Regularly to Catch STDs Early

While you won’t detect donovanosis with Rapid Testing’s 10-panel STD test, these tests are still incredibly valuable in discovering the presence of more common STDs. If you engage in unprotected sex or have multiple sexual partners, order an STD test or visit your local testing center to keep you and your partner healthy and safe. Call us at Rapid STD Testing at (866) 872-1888 if you have any questions.

The U.S. has a significant history with HIV and AIDS due to the tragic epidemic that started in the early 1980s, and many people still think of that time when someone mentions HIV. The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) destroys the body’s immune system, eventually leading to AIDS. Someone with AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) typically has a life expectancy of about three years without treatment. 

Fortunately, researchers have discovered a treatment that slows the body’s progression through the stages of HIV, meaning that the numbers of severe cases are much lower today than they were 40 years ago. Antiretroviral therapy, or ART, describes an HIV treatment regimen that involves taking medications every day to help the immune system and reduce the risk of spread to other people.

HIV Overview

HIV attacks the cells of your body’s immune system, weakening its ability to fight off illness. HIV can eventually develop into AIDS. Though no cure currently exists, effective treatments allow people living with HIV to maintain a long, healthy life. 

Learn more about STDs that have no cure yet

Where does HIV come from?

The virus originally came from chimpanzees in Central Africa. Some people speculate that humans contracted SIV (the simian version of the virus) from the blood of chimpanzees after hunting them for food in the late 1800s. HIV inched its way across Africa, eventually spreading to various parts of the world.

How can I determine if I have HIV?

You must get an HIV test to find out if you have the virus. The most common test detects antibodies, but it may take up to three months after infection for them to show up. If you believe you have had exposure to HIV, Rapid STD Testing offers a 10-panel STD test that can detect the virus.

What are the symptoms of HIV?

Flu-like symptoms can appear within two to four weeks after infection, including: 

• Fever
• Chills
• Sore throat
• Rash
• Mouth ulcers
• Night sweats
• Body aches
• Swollen lymph nodes 

These symptoms could last for a few days or weeks. Some people don’t experience any symptoms at this stage, though the virus continues to multiply in their bodies. While not a direct symptom of HIV, thinning hair is also common in patients due to conditions related to their compromised immune system.

Learn more about STDs and hair loss. 

How does HIV spread?

HIV transmission happens through contact with certain bodily fluids, such as: 

• Semen
• Pre-seminal fluid
• Blood
• Rectal fluids
• Vaginal fluids
• Breast milk 

The most common ways that people contract HIV are:

• Vaginal or anal sex with someone who has HIV without a condom or preventative medication
• Using the same needles as someone with HIV

What are the stages of HIV?

Without treatment, HIV naturally progresses through different stages. If you get a rapid STD test early and receive treatment, you can slow the progression and avoid developing AIDS.

Stage 1: Acute HIV Infection

In the first stage of HIV infection, the virus is rapidly multiplying in the body. Some people will experience flu-like symptoms like fever, chills, and sore throat within days or weeks of exposure. However, some never feel sick in the earliest stage. 

In reaction to the virus replicating in the body, the immune system produces antibodies, which tests can detect three months after the initial infection. A person in this stage of HIV infection is highly contagious.

Stage 2: Chronic HIV Infection (Asymptomatic)

The second stage can be risky because there is no sign or symptom of an HIV infection. The virus continues to develop and hurt the immune system’s function but at a much slower pace. This stage can last for up ten years. 

A person in this stage may never know they have HIV, but they are still infectious. Treatment slows down the progression of HIV, and someone taking medication could live the rest of their life in this asymptomatic stage.

Stage 3: Chronic HIV Infection (Symptomatic)

Eventually, HIV causes a person’s immune system to stop working correctly, making them vulnerable to opportunistic infections. These severe illnesses can bring about symptoms like weight loss, fatigue, thrush, mouth ulcers, and diarrhea. 

Opportunistic infections earned the name because they take advantage of an infected person’s weakened immune system, spreading through bodily fluids, air, or contaminated foods. These infections include toxoplasmosis, pneumonia, Salmonella bacteria infection, and tuberculosis. Taking HIV medications can prevent damage to the immune system, helping your body resist illnesses.

Stage 4: Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS)

The body’s immune system has taken a significant beating, and the HIV infection has developed into AIDS. Untreated HIV at this stage means numerous opportunistic infections and a rapid decline in health. 

Doctors test for AIDS by checking a person’s CD4 cell count, the primary infection-fighting cells in the immune system. They also take note of the viral load and opportunistic infections. Someone at this stage has a high amount of HIV in their blood, and they’re very contagious.

Rates of HIV Disease Progression

The rate of HIV progression depends on immune function and genetics. There are two main categories of progressors: 

• Rapid progressors: HIV rapidly progresses to AIDS, taking only a few years versus the standard ten.
• Long-term nonprogressors: the infected person shows no symptoms of HIV, and progression to AIDS can take over 12 years.

Test Markers of HIV Disease Progression

Running lab tests can reveal the progression of HIV by using specific test markers, giving doctors and researchers a better idea of how HIV develops in the body. These markers of HIV development correspond to low immune system cell count, viral load, and increased immune response.

CD4 cell count for T cells

CD4 cell count was the first marker doctors used to predict the rate of HIV progression to AIDS. CD4 cells, aka T cells, are white blood cells that find and eliminate invading germs. Measuring the number of these cells in the body allows doctors to determine a person’s risk of contracting opportunistic infections like pneumonia.

Plasma HIV viral load

Viral load is the amount of HIV in each millimeter of blood. At the beginning of an HIV infection, the viral load is very high. During the asymptomatic stage, the amount of HIV in the blood drops and stabilizes until AIDS starts to develop, at which point the viral load shoots up.

CD38 expression on CD8+ T cells

CD38 is a protein that appears on the surface of white blood, such as CD8+ T cells. A higher expression of CD38 on CD8+ cells indicates an imminent decline of CD4+ T cells at the beginning of an HIV infection. Later in the disease’s development, it can predict progression into AIDS.

The Basics of HIV Prevention

Since HIV only passes through specific bodily fluids, you can reduce your risk of infection by avoiding contact with those fluids or taking preventative medications.

Prevention of HIV Perinatal Transmission

A woman infected with HIV could pass the virus to her infant during pregnancy, labor and delivery, or breastfeeding, known as perinatal transmission. To prevent this type of infection, women should get tested for HIV before becoming pregnant, take HIV medications if they are infected, and use formula instead of breast milk.

Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)

PrEP is a medicine for people who don’t have HIV, but who want to prevent contracting it through sex or sharing needles. They must take the drug every day for it to be effective. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) shows that PrEP reduces HIV infection through sex by 99% and injecting drugs by 74%.

Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)

PEP is for HIV exposure emergencies, and you should not substitute other prevention methods with it. You should use it as soon as possible after HIV exposure (within at least 72 hours). If you take it within those first three days, it can prevent HIV infection.

Protect Your Partners – Get Tested for HIV

Are you freaking out over potential exposure to HIV after reading this article? Give yourself peace of mind and try same-day STD testing. Visit a Rapid STD Testing center near you.