HIV is a form of an STD; whereas the converse is not necessarily true. That is, there are STDS which are not HIV. However, with that said, it is a statistical fact that if you have one or more STDs, then you are also more likely to possibly get HIV. HIV is specifically that the Human Immunodeficiency Virus where an STD can be a variety of diseases and viruses.
How does this work? Well, the Center for Disease Research (CDC) has compiled data to this effect. The same behaviors that can lead to you getting one of the more common STDs can also lead to you getting the most serious of them, HIV. In fact, if you already have an STD such as gonorrhea, herpes, or syphilis, then some of the sores that lead to these make you more susceptible to the virus if you continue to have unprotected sex.
Minimizing Your Risk for STDS and HIV: Behaviors to Avoid
First and foremost, unprotected sex between casual partners is the biggest reason for the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. This includes all the various methods of intercourse—no matter which you do; oral, anal, or vaginal, you must wear a condom to significantly improve your level of protection well beyond 90%.
Additionally, it is another statistical fact that the more partners you have, the higher your risk of contracting an STD. The caliber of these partners factors heavily into it, as well; if they are mostly casual and random/anonymous, then your chances skyrocket. Minimizing your sexual behavior with multiple partners drastically reduces your risk. No matter the choices you make, however, condom use should be mandatory to protect yourself and your partners. Remember, there is currently no cure for some of the STDs—such as HIV and herpes.
Dealing with an STD
With modern medicine, most STDs can be cured or adequately managed. There’s no need to panic if you suspect you might have contracted one; if you reside in the Washington, DC area, head on over to Fast Track Urgent Care to undergo medical testing and treatment.
As a dedicated walk-in clinic, there’s no appointment needed—after all, this is your health we’re talking about. Our urgent care clinics (one in Kensington, MD and one in Silver Spring, MD) are the next best thing to a full hospital—and better in many cases.
Learn more about our walk-in medical clinic and visit an office today to get tested today!
