Most test for STD’s are done at your request or if you’re pregnant. A pregnant woman with an STD such as Herpes or HIV is at risk of transferring the virus to her unborn baby resulting in severe illness or death. Because of the rising epidemic of HIV infected individuals and herpes cases today, it is very important to get tested. This is especially so because Herpes and HIV are incurable; with HIV being potentially fatal. People fear getting tested but once you know your status it can empower you to take better care of yourself and be more responsible.

If you have sores on your genitals, a sample can be taken and cultured. The virus multiplies and can be seen under a microscope. Another test involves a solution which contains antibodies that is added to the sample. The virus multiplies and glows when viewed under a special microscope. The only drawback with this type of testing is that the virus is detected only in it’s active form. These test can also tell you what type of herpes you have and how you were infected. HSV 1 can be transmitted to the genitals through oral sex and HSV 2 can be transmitted through intercourse or anal sex. As stated above, the culture detects the herpes virus in it’s active form. False negative results are possible if the sores have begun healing or if this isn’t your first outbreak. Blood test for herpes are done when there are no symptoms and are more accurate. However, if you are newly infected it may not show up for several weeks since it takes time for antibodies to the virus to show up in the blood. That is why if you suspect you may be infected you should have a repeat test several weeks after the first one.

The HIV test most commonly used in the US is the EIA or enzyme immunoassay formerly known as (Elisa). This test on blood samples looks for antibodies to the HIV virus. A positive EIA must be confirmed with a Western Blot on the same sample. HIV test using oral fluids are obtained from the mouth with a special device. Saliva isn’t used for testing but oral fluids found in the mouth. The test is similar to the EIA test done on blood. If the test is positive then a Western Blot is done on the same oral sample to confirm the results. There are rapid HIV screening test but if reactive must also be confirmed by the Western Blot. Home testing kits are popular since being licensed in 1997, but only one has been approved by the FDA. The Home Access HIV 1 Test System is a home collection kit. The kit has instructions on how to obtain a sample, mailing it and how to obtain your results. There are supportive services available throughout this process.

HIV has inflicted millions and millions of individuals worldwide. It is for this reason that different government and the World Health Organization are continually creating programs to prevent HIV from spreading further. This disease is very serious and lethal. As such, it is important to equip yourself with the proper knowledge of HIV prevention.

First of all, remember that HIV can be transferred or transmitted in three ways. Through sexual intercourse, transfer of blood and mother to child, HIV can be passed on. Also keep in mind that for each method of transmission, an individual has the capacity to significantly reduce the probability or likelihood of acquiring the disease. There are interventions that the national and local government are offering to help people at risk. These interventions all should be taken to ensure that the programs are indeed effective.

Most programs are centered on three main things. These things could prevent HIV transmission if correctly followed. One is through media campaign and information dissemination. Information gives us power to choose, to protect ourselves. There are still a lot of people today who do not know the repercussions of having unprotected sex. They do not know that they are putting themselves at risk for sexually transmitted disease, and possible, HIV. The media can significantly reduce HIV widespread if they have the proper tools to make the facts about HIV known.

This leads us to the next part of HIV prevention which is HIV counseling and testing. If you already know that your population is at risk, go to health centers and find out how they can help protect you. People who have the disease and are afraid they might pass it on to others, like to an unborn child, can be given proper counseling. This mother, for example, may be tested and her child may also be tested for possible HIV infections. Immediate treatment may also be given for the mother to help her unborn child. There is still a big possibility that the child would not get the disease if the mother is diagnosed early and receives proper treatment and care.

The third method for HIV prevention is through the provision of antiretroviral treatment for those who are exposed to HIV. This is basically given to those who have been diagnosed with HIV. People who are tested and returns positive with HIV are instantly given such a treatment to help them live a better, healthier life despite their disease. As an HIV prevention method, provision of the antiretroviral treatment acts an incentive for people to come out and actually be tested. This also allows the government to keep track of those with the disease and which areas are most affected.