FAQs & Misconceptions

Which STIs are the most common?

According to data surveillance by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), the human papillomavirus (HPV) stands as the most common viral STI, while chlamydia ranks as the most common bacterial STI, both on a worldwide scale. 

Can I have an STI without experiencing symptoms? 

Yes, STIs can often be asymptomatic. A person can have an infection without experiencing symptoms. Consequently, routine testing is recommended to detect and address these infections early, even in the absence of symptoms.

Are STIs transmitted through oral sex? 

Yes, STIs can be transmitted via oral sex, with certain infections like syphilis, herpes, and HPV commonly transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. Additionally, gonorrhea and chlamydia can be transmitted through sexual fluids and the mucous membranes of the throat.
Note: The risk of transmitting hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV through oral sex is generally considered low. However, it is crucial to ensure that there are no ulcers or bleeding gums, as these conditions may increase the risk of transmission.

Avoid brushing your teeth two hours before and after engaging in a sexual activity.

Are there vaccines available for STI prevention?

Yes, there are. Hepatitis B and HPV have efficient vaccinations available. However, vaccines for other STIs are not yet developed.

Are there alternatives or home remedies for treating STIs?

Regrettably, home remedies are generally ineffective in treating STIs and may worsen the symptoms. Effective management of the infection often requires the use of prescribed medication and regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider. 

Can people with penises get genital yeast infections?

Yes, yeast infections (also known as candida infections) can affect people with penises. Usually, the tip of the penis becomes inflamed, leading to a burning sensation. For uncircumcised penises, individuals experience a burning under the foreskin accompanied by small red spots and discharge.

How are penile yeast infections treated?

Penile yeast infections are treated similarly to vaginal yeast infections, often with topical antifungal creams. In some cases, physicians may prescribe a single dose of an oral antifungal medication (fluconazole) along with a cream containing a corticosteroid to decrease the itching and burning.

What is mononucleosis? 

Infectious mononucleosis, commonly referred to as ‘mono’ or the ‘kissing disease’, is a common viral infection that is transmitted by contact with saliva and that causes symptoms similar to HIV. The main cause of infectious mononucleosis is the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV). Many other microorganisms can cause what is known as mono-like syndrome. That includes cytomegalovirus (CMV), herpes simplex virus (HSV), Toxoplasma gondii (a parasite found in cat feces), and HIV.

Therefore, in cases of fever, throat pain, and lymph node enlargement, HIV can be tested along with the mononucleosis test (Monospot) and cytomegalovirus antibodies. While HIV should be immediately treated, mononucleosis has no specific treatment other than common analgesics.

Which body fluids carry HIV?

Blood, vaginal fluid, semen, pre-ejaculate (pre-cum), rectal fluid, and breast milk.

Does kissing, drinking, eating from the same glass or plate, or handshaking transmit HIV?

No, saliva and skin contact do not transmit HIV.

When does a person become capable of transmitting HIV after contracting the virus?

Transmission can become possible as early as one week after contracting HIV. Typically, by 10 to 14 days after infection, the virus would be distributed all over the body, with the quantity of virus in the blood usually being high during this phase (and remaining high for months if treatment is not initiated).

Is it true that HIV can be asymptomatic?

Yes, HIV can be asymptomatic, but 70% to 90% of people who acquire it start experiencing symptoms after two weeks. These symptoms consist of fever, throat pain, and lymph node enlargement. Abdominal pain, night sweats, and fatigue are also common.

What is an HIV viral load?

Viral load refers to the amount of virus in the body. The HIV viral load is measured through HIV-RNA PCR and the result is reported in the number of copies per milliliter of blood. 

When are HIV viral load lab tests ordered?

HIV-RNA PCR (also known as the viral load test) is a test prescribed by a specialist physician before starting HIV treatment. Its purpose is to evaluate how well the body is responding to treatment.

In some cases, if the PCR was used to diagnose an HIV infection, the regular serological (ELISA) HIV antigen/antibody test should still be performed for confirmation.

What are the side effects of PrEP?

While most people do not experience any side effects while on pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) , some may encounter them during the first few weeks of starting the therapy. These side effects include abdominal pain, nausea, headaches, and less commonly, mood changes. The side effects usually subside after a few weeks.

Can I drink alcohol while I’m on PrEP?

Yes, you can drink alcohol while on PrEP. However, alcohol consumption can increase the side effects of PrEP (nausea, vomiting, headache, and dizziness).

What is PEP? When should it be taken and how?

Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is the combination of three drugs into one pill. Its purpose is to prevent HIV-negative individuals from becoming infected with HIV after exposure. PEP should be initiated within a maximum of 72 hours after exposure and taken daily for 28 days.

Can PrEP be taken as PEP?

Ideally, no. Taking PrEP instead of PEP might cause the virus to become resistant to treatment especially if the virus is already present in the body.

Can I get reinfested with crabs? 

Yes. If housemates or frequent sexual partners are not also treated, they might cause a re-infestation with pubic lice. Additionally, failing to wash towels, bed linens, and clothes at a high temperature can also cause a re-infestation.

Are feminine hygiene products necessary?

The vagina is a self-cleaning organ that contains a population of healthy bacteria of the Lactobacillus family. These bacteria regulate vaginal pH and defend against harmful bacteria. Since many products are available on the market and therefore differ, there is no clear-cut answer that applies to all individuals with internal genitalia. In general, however, feminine hygiene products are not necessary and water is sufficient for cleansing.

Can pre-cum or pre-ejaculate cause pregnancy?

Yes. Research suggests that 40% of individuals secrete sperm in their pre-cum. 

I lose sensation while using condoms. What should I do? 

There is a diverse range of condoms available. Experiment with different types, add a few drops of lubricant underneath the condom and try using it during self-pleasure (on the penis, inside the vagina, on sex toys, and fingers). Finding the right fit and style can enhance comfort and satisfaction. 

Can I use lotion, massage oil, or baby oil as a substitute for lubricant? 

Using lotions, massage oils, or baby oil as a substitute for lubricant is generally not recommended. These products can lead to irritation and result in condom breakage. It is advisable to use a water-based or silicone-based lubricant designed specifically for sexual purposes. 

I checked the symptoms on Google and followed the WHO/CDC recommendation. Is there a need to check with the doctor?  

While online resources and official health recommendations are helpful, it is important to follow up with a doctor. Consulting a physician offers personalized guidance based on your specific situation and ensures accurate diagnosis and treatment. 

When it comes to HIV, what is a window period? Is it the same as an incubation period? 

Window and incubation periods are different and can be confused with one another. 

A window period is a span during which a laboratory test can give a negative result even if someone is positive for the infection. The duration of a window period varies widely and depends on the type of test that is being done and on the microbe. This means that getting tested during a window period does not give an accurate and definitive answer, whereas getting tested after the window period gives a more reliable result. Accurate test results allow both the healthcare provider and the individual being tested to make informed decisions. The healthcare provider can then better treat the condition and the individual can accurately know their status.  

An incubation period is the phase between the first contact with the microbe and when symptoms start to appear. This period varies based on the microbe.