Published at January 9, 2024
The COVID-19 pandemic has strained healthcare systems, leading to a slowdown in testing and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Unfortunately, this has resulted in a resurgence of STD cases.
According to a recent report from the CDC, there has been a 7% increase in STD cases in the U.S. alone in 2021. This alarming rise is not exclusive to the U.S., as globally, more than 1 million STDs are acquired every day.
One of the primary reasons behind the rapid spread of STDs is social stigma. Many individuals fear judgment and avoid seeking medical help or getting tested. This reluctance to disclose their illness leads to the continued spread of infections over extended periods of time.
Fortunately, if you suspect that you have contracted an STD, there is no need to worry. Technological advancements have made it possible to receive online STD treatment and consultation from certified medical professionals right from the comfort and privacy of your own home. These professionals can guide you through the necessary tests, prescribe appropriate medications, and provide discreet treatment options.
It is crucial to prioritize your sexual health and seek proper medical care, even in times of strained healthcare systems. online doctor for std offers a confidential and convenient solution to address your concerns and ensure timely care and management of STDs.
STD Basics and Symptoms
STDs, also called STIs (sexually transmitted infections), usually spread when infected people have sexual contact with other people. People think that only vaginal intercourse causes an STD, but it can also be caused by kissing, oral sex, anal intercourse, or even using sex toys.
The most common STDs are:
- HIV, HPV
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Herpes
- Syphilis
- Trichomoniasis
- Genital Warts
- Hepatitis
Contrary to popular opinion, STDs are quite common. Here are some facts:
- In 2021, there were over 2.5 million reported cases of syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia.
- An estimate suggests that all sexually active individuals who are not vaccinated will be infected with HPV at some point in their lives, with 80% of them infected at any given time.
Contracting a sexually transmitted disease (STD) is easier than you may realize. More than 30 viruses, bacteria, and parasites can cause STDs, affecting millions of Americans. If not prevented or treated in a timely manner, some STDs can have life-long effects.
Untreated STDs can lead to severe consequences such as sexual dysfunction, infertility, cancer, ectopic pregnancy, and even an increased risk of contracting HIV.
While many STDs do not show symptoms, some common signs include foul-smelling penile or vaginal discharge, genital bumps or sores, itching, abdominal pain, painful urination or intercourse, and swollen lymph nodes.
It is crucial to prioritize sexual health, practice safe sex, and seek medical attention when necessary. Regular testing, vaccination, and early treatment can help prevent the spread of STDs and minimize their impact on individuals and communities.
How You Can Treat STDs Without Visiting the Clinic
You need not be hyper-anxious if you suspect you have an STD. STDs are very common but the taboo around sex and related diseases often makes it difficult.
However, you must act promptly since most STDs are curable and those that aren’t can be treated by managing their symptoms. Moreover, as many STDs are asymptomatic, you should get regularly tested especially when you have been potentially exposed due to unprotected sex or multiple sex partners.
You can perform home tests, consult a certified physician online, and get prescriptions right at home. Here’s how:
Get Yourself Tested At Home
You may think you cannot get tested without going to a clinic. That’s not true. Medical innovations have made it possible to conduct tests at home for almost all STDs.
Home tests are simple enough. Receive a kit. Take samples carefully. Send them back. Receive the results. What’s more, research shows home testing allows you to get accurate results at low costs.
Consult a Doctor Online and Get Prescriptions
If you test positive, it’s natural to get mad and a little embarrassed at first. But pull yourself together and schedule a virtual appointment with a certified medical professional.
Through telemedicine, consult a doctor securely and get an accurate diagnosis via phone/video calls or chats. Depending on your diagnosis and condition, the physician prescribes medication that you can collect from your preferred pharmacy or get home delivered.
Benefits of Getting Online Treatment for STDs
Telehealth services have several documented benefits and have become a savior for many worldwide. Using telehealth platforms for STDs can be:
Discreet and Less Awkward: The most significant benefit is the ease with which you can privately discuss your sexual health over secure communication lines.
Plus, since STDs are stigmatized, many people feel humiliated communicating their sexual preferences and symptoms in person. Telemedicine comes to the rescue with non-judgmental and discreet consultations.
Satisfactory: Numerous studies have shown improved accessibility and satisfaction among patients who have shifted to telemedicine.
For instance, a review of studies about people living with HIV (PLWH) found telemedicine useful in connecting underprivileged patients to specialists. In addition, most of the studies reviewed showed positive experiences of telemedicine among PLWH.
Convenient and Cost-Effective: For people in rural areas, telemedicine is a blessing since they can get tested and treated for STDs conveniently from their homes. It also makes up for the lack of transportation and healthcare facilities in underserved areas, saving time and money.
Talk to a Certified Doctor Discreetly
With round-the-clock accessibility, 24HrDOC provides professional care, expert diagnosis, and personalized treatment plans.
At 24HrDOC, we offer discreet and affordable online treatment for various STDs via secure chats or video calls on our cutting-edge telehealth platform.
Schedule an e-visit today to get improved sexual health from the comfort of your home.