In 2023, Essex County stood out with some of the highest STD rates in New Jersey, according to the latest CDC data. The county ranked #1 statewide for gonorrhea and syphilis rates, and #2 for chlamydia. These numbers reveal a real public health challenge that demands immediate attention. The Numbers Tell a Concerning Story Essex…
When it comes to sexual health, there are some topics that never get enough attention. You may have heard of “blue balls” in men, but did you know that women can experience something similar? Let’s talk about “blue vulva,” commonly referred to as blue vulva syndrome: what it is, how it compares to blue balls,…
Vaginal discharge is a normal bodily function that helps maintain a healthy environment by flushing out bacteria and dead cells. While clear or white discharge is common, brown vaginal discharge can sometimes raise concerns. Characteristics of Brown Vaginal Discharge Brown discharge can vary in color, consistency, and timing. It may appear as follows: Light brown…
When you’re worried about herpes, waiting for symptoms can be stressful. Maybe you’ve had an encounter that’s left you concerned, or you’ve just learned a partner has herpes. Whatever your situation, understanding the timeline of herpes symptoms can help you make informed decisions about your health. Key Takeaways Herpes symptoms typically appear 2-12 days after…
Want to protect yourself from sexually transmitted diseases like the herpes simplex virus, genital herpes, and hepatitis B virus? Understanding STD vaccines is key, as like many other infectious diseases, they are vaccine-preventable diseases. In this article, we’ll break down the available vaccines, who should get them, and clear up some common myths. Let’s dive…
The post-ejaculatory refractory period is a unique aspect of human sexuality that occurs following orgasm during which individuals experience a temporary inability to become sexually aroused or achieve another orgasm. This phenomenon is well-documented in males but its existence in females is still debatable. Key Takeaways The refractory period is a phase of sexual non-responsiveness…
Cats are beloved members of many households, bringing joy and companionship to millions of pet owners worldwide. But just like humans, our feline friends can suffer from various health conditions, including infections. One such condition that often goes unrecognized by cat owners is chlamydia, a bacterial infection that primarily affects cats’ eyes and respiratory systems….
Getting a tattoo is an exciting way to express yourself, but it’s important to be aware of potential health risks. One concern that often comes up is the possibility of contracting hepatitis C virus (HCV) from tattooing. In this article, we’ll explore the connection between tattoos and hepatitis C, discuss the risks, and provide guidance…
Dealing with vaginal health issues can be confusing and stressful. It is important to distinguish between vaginal infections to receive the most efficient treatment. Two common conditions that often cause concern are bacterial vaginosis (BV) and chlamydia. While they share some similarities, these infections have distinct differences in their causes, symptoms, and treatments. This guide…
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can be caused by different types of organisms, including parasites, which often don’t get as much attention as bacterial or viral STDs. These parasitic infections deserve our understanding too, as they can cause significant discomfort and emotional stress if not addressed properly. The good news is that most parasitic STDs respond…