Other STDS in Hampton Roads
There are less commonly known STIs that affect our community in Hampton Roads. Outside of the commonly known STDs in Hampton Roads such as HIV, Gonorrhea, or Chlamydia, there are four other STDs prevalent in our area.
Crabs in Hampton Roads
Crabs or Pubic Lice can be spread through sexual contact or linen, towels or clothing that have been used by someone that is infected. The most common symptom of crabs is itching. However, scratching too much can lead to secondary sores and infection. Crabs can look different from head and body lice. They are shorter and appear crab-like. Crabs in Norfolk or Newport News are diagnosed by finding eggs or a crab louse on hair in the pubic region. Eggs can also appear on beards, mustaches, eyebrows or lashes, chest, and back. Pubic Lice can be treated with over-the-counter prescription medications.
Scabies in Hampton Roads
Scabies is caused by an infestation of the skin by a mite called Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis. Scabies can be spread through prolonged direct contact with someone (like during sex) or by sharing clothing or linen with someone who is infected. Scabies is easily spread in crowded group living situations such as prisons, nursing homes, and similar settings. Scabies appears in a skin rash that is pimple-like. You can get scabies in the following areas:
- Buttocks
- Waist
- Shoulder blades
- Nipples
- Between fingers
- Penis
- Wrist
- Armpit
Chancroid in Hampton Roads
Chancroid is a sexually transmitted infection that causes painful draining open sores in your genital area. People with Chancroid also have swollen lymph nodes in their groin which is painful. Over the years, the prevalence of Chancroid has declined. Chancroid is transmitted through close skin-to-skin contact or vaginal, oral, or anal sex with an infected partner. If you are pregnant, Chancroid is less likely to be passed on to your unborn child. However, it can be toxic during breastfeeding. If Chancroid is left untreated, other complications can occur which include destruction to foreskin tissue, infection, and a higher risk of transmitting and acquiring HIV.
LGV (Lymphogranuloma Venereum)
LGV or (Lymphogranuloma Venereum) is an STD caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis. (A different kind of Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria causes Chlamydia) GV infections in the United States are rare. It is reported that men who have sex with men get LGV at higher rates. People who are sexually active between the ages of 15-40 are at a higher risk of developing LGV along with people with HIV. Symptoms of LGV occur in three stages. These symptoms include:
- Headache
- Fever
- Body aches
- Rectal bleeding
- Back pain
- Pelvic pain
- Painful urination
- Anal pain
LGV is treated with antibiotics. If LGV is left untreated, it can cause long-term damage to your lymphatic system.
The best way to prevent STDs is abstinence. You have the power to reduce your chances of getting an STD by using a condom the right way each time, limiting your number of partners, and having sex with partners who test negative for STDs. Schedule your appointment for STD testing in Norfolk or Newport News now to know your status.