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A Guide to Navigating HIV in Your Relationships

When living with HIV, many people fear that relationships and intimacy are no longer a possibility. Despite the challenges, safe and loving connections are still attainable for those living with HIV. This blog will explore how to navigate dating, sex, and relationships while living with HIV, touching on topics like disclosing your status, taking precautions, and creating supportive environments.

Disclosing Your Status

When it comes to dating and relationships, the first step is deciding if and when you feel comfortable disclosing your status to potential partners. This can be a difficult decision, as some people may have negative reactions or simply not understand the virus. It’s important to remember that stigma still exists, so choose a safe space where you feel respected and secure before sharing the information. It’s OK to take your time with this decision—prioritize your own safety and comfort level first.

Be Honest

Once you have decided to discuss your status, be open and honest with potential partners about what this means for them and yourself. This includes discussing HIV transmission risks, how you plan to make sex safer, and any other topics you feel are important for them to know.

Take Precautions

In addition to discussing HIV, it’s also important to practice safer sex practices in order to reduce the risk of transmission. This means using barrier methods like condoms or dental dams during both oral and penetrative sex and not sharing needles. In addition, getting regular medical care and taking antiretroviral therapy (ART) as prescribed can help to reduce the amount of HIV in the body and achieve an undetectable viral load. When HIV is undetectable, it means that the amount of virus in the blood is so low that it cannot be detected by standard tests.

Research has shown that people with an undetectable viral load cannot transmit HIV to their sexual partners. Becoming undetectable is therefore an important step in protecting partners and preventing the spread of HIV. It may also be beneficial to explore pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for partners, which are medication regimens that can reduce the risk of HIV transmission.

Create a Safe Environment

Finally, creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable discussing their needs and boundaries around sex is crucial to ensure a healthy and safe relationship with your partner(s). Make sure that everyone is on the same page about what is OK and not OK for all parties involved. Communication is key, so remember to check in with each other frequently to ensure that everyone’s needs are still being met.

Living with HIV does not have to mean a life of loneliness and isolation—it just requires different considerations than before. With proper precautions, healthcare, and open communication, those living with HIV can still experience safe and loving relationships.

HIV Care in Pennsylvania

At Novus, we believe everyone deserves the best quality of care and treatment. Our team of expert healthcare professionals in Pennsylvania provides comprehensive diagnoses, treatments, and preventative services for those affected by HIV—including PrEP: HIV prevention for partners. 

Contact us to get started on your journey towards better health today!

A Step-by-Step Guide to Practicing Self-Care for People With HIV

Self-care is important to maintaining your health, regardless of your HIV status. However, for people living with HIV, it is especially crucial to practice self-care to stay healthy and manage any symptoms you may experience. In this blog, Novus will provide a step-by-step guide on best taking care of yourself. We will cover everything from eating a balanced diet to maintaining dental hygiene. If you are living with HIV, we hope this guide will help you live healthier and happier lives!

Eat a Balanced Diet

Eating a nutritious, balanced diet is key for people living with HIV. Focusing on foods high in protein, vitamins, and minerals can help boost the immune system and give your body the energy it needs to function properly. Try to include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins like fish or chicken, and complex carbohydrates like whole grains. Limit your intake of processed foods with high amounts of fat and sugar.

Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise can help boost your mood, reduce stress levels, strengthen bones and muscles, and improve overall cardiovascular health. If you’re new to exercise, start slowly and gradually build up. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate daily activity, such as walking, jogging, or cycling.

Manage Stress

Stress can affect your physical and mental health, so it’s important to take steps to manage it. Ensure you get enough sleep, practice relaxation techniques such as mindfulness or yoga, and find ways to reduce stress in your daily life (like delegating tasks or taking a break).

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Taking care of your teeth and gums is an important part of self-care for people with HIV. Brush twice a day, floss daily, and use mouthwash to keep your breath fresh. Additionally, schedule regular dental checkups to detect any problems early.

Stay Connected

Social connections are important for your overall well-being, so stay connected with friends and family. Reach out to others via phone, video chat, or in person; even a short conversation can make a big difference. Additionally, look into local support groups that specialize in HIV so you can connect with others who understand what you’re going through.

Adhere to Medication Guidelines

If you are living with HIV, you must adhere to your medication guidelines and follow your healthcare provider’s instructions. Taking your medication late or skipping doses can lead to drug resistance, making the medications less effective. It’s also important to stay up-to-date with your healthcare provider’s advice and take any tests they recommend. This could include monitoring for changes in your viral load, taking blood tests to check for other infections or diseases, and getting regular physical exams. Additionally, your provider may advise you to take other medications – such as vitamins or supplements – to ensure your body maintains the best possible health.

Following these steps gives you the best chance of living a healthy and happy life. Remember to be patient with yourself and practice self-compassion – your health is the most important thing. If you ever need extra support, don’t hesitate to contact a healthcare professional.

HIV Care in Pennsylvania

At Novus, our Pennsylvania healthcare professionals specialize in prompt and high-quality diagnosis, treatment, and care and PrEP: HIV prevention for partners. We are committed to helping those affected by HIV access the best care and treatment available.

To request an appointment, visit our site or give us a call at one of our locations in Pennsylvania.

A Guide to Sexual Wellness: What You Need to Know

Being sexually active is an important part of your overall wellness. Taking care of your sexual health not only involves understanding the risks associated with unprotected sex but also knowing how to protect yourself and your partner(s). 

Here is a primer to help you understand what you need to know about staying safe and healthy in the bedroom.

What Is Sexual Wellness?

Sexual wellness is a holistic approach to sexual health that focuses on physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being. It requires knowledge of the risks associated with unprotected sex and how to protect yourself and your partner(s) from them. Additionally, it involves taking steps to ensure that all aspects of your sexuality are being addressed in a safe and responsible manner.

How Can I Practice Good Sexual Wellness?

Practicing good sexual wellness starts with education. Knowing your body’s anatomy, physiology, limits, desires, preferences and boundaries, as well as where you stand on issues related to consent, are all essential pieces of information when it comes to making informed decisions about sex. Additionally, educating yourself on STIs/STDs can help you recognize their symptoms if they arise and take steps for proper diagnosis and treatment.

It’s also important to make sure you have access to reliable contraception if needed, including condoms or other barrier methods like birth control pills if necessary. Concerning communication with partners, it’s paramount for all parties involved in a sexual encounter to be honest about their desires as well as any potential risks involved in engaging in unprotected sex.

Confidential Sexual Care in Pennsylvania               

Taking proactive steps towards achieving better sexual health is not only empowering but necessary for maintaining overall well-being!

At Novus, we guarantee you will be welcomed with open arms no matter who you are; our staff is as inclusive and diverse as the communities we serve. Each of our five Pennsylvania locations is dedicated to helping facilitate healthy lifestyles for all. We offer free testing for STIs and HIV, as well as affordable HIV prevention (PrEP) and quality HIV/Hep C treatment and care. 

To request an appointment, head to our website or give us a call at any of our locations!

Top Reasons to Undergo Frequent STD Testing 

As an adult, it is critical to pay attention to your sexual health. Every sexually active person should prioritize regular testing for Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs). Even if you practice safe sex and assume that your partner does, removing uncertainty through testing can provide a greater sense of peace of mind. 

By understanding the risks associated with STDs and scheduling regular tests, you can ensure that you remain healthy and help protect yourself and your partner(s) against any potential infections or diseases.

Everyone Can Contract STDs

It is a common misconception that STDs can only be contracted through intercourse. Though it may not seem possible, some STDs like HPV and Syphilis can be spread through regular skin-to-skin contact. Moreover, other sexually transmissible ailments, such as oral herpes, can be passed on by casual affective contact with infected friends or family members.

It’s Never Too Late to Get Tested

Honest communication with your sexual partners is key to keeping STDs at bay. Individuals in long-term, monogamous relationships often forgo frequent STD testing and assume they won’t get infected. Getting tested is the only way to know if you or your partner have pre-existing infections. It will help you properly address the situation and take the necessary steps to ensure you lead a safe and satisfying sex life.  

Diagnosis is Necessary for Proper Treatment

Being properly diagnosed by a reputable healthcare provider is paramount to ensure you receive an effective treatment plan as soon as possible. Untreated STDs can potentially cause permanent, chronic issues and diseases. 

Remember that STDs are often much easier to control or eradicate when caught early. If you suspect you may have contracted an STD, we recommend you get in touch with your trusted healthcare provider as soon as possible; it could save your life.

Not All STDs Cause Symptoms

Regular STD testing and treatment are indispensable to effectively help prevent infection! Lack of symptoms does not necessarily indicate an absence of STDs. Being symptom-free does not guarantee you don’t have a sexually transmitted disease that you could unknowingly pass on to others. 

Free, Confidential STD Testing and Care in Pennsylvania

If you are looking for free and confidential STD testing in Pennsylvania, Novus is the name to know and trust. With five convenient locations across the state, we ensure every individual has access to comprehensive testing for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Syphilis, HIV, and Hepatitis C.

Give us a call today to schedule your appointment or fill out this simple form and one of our friendly staff will get back to you in a timely manner.

How to Choose the Right STD Test

Getting tested for sexually transmitted diseases is one of the best ways to protect your health if you are sexually active. There are many different types of STD tests, so it can be difficult to know which ones you should take in order to get the most accurate results and the best possible care. To help you protect yourself and your partners, it’s important to get tested–– but which ones are right for you?

Read on to learn more about choosing the right STD test to ensure you and your partners stay healthy and have all the resources to prevent sexually transmitted diseases. 

What is STD Testing?

If you are sexually active, getting tested for sexually transmitted diseases regularly could prove to be lifesaving. Start the process by having an open and honest conversation with your doctor about your sexual history; they will be able to assess your situation and advise you on whether or not STD testing is right for you. Depending on your risk factors, your doctor may recommend a specific one or a combination of tests.

If you don’t feel comfortable discussing your medical needs with your regular health care provider, visit a clinic specializing in STD testing for confidential and affordable options.

STD Testing Recommendations

• Sexually active women younger than 25 or women over 25 with increased risk factors such as new or multiple sex partners → test for gonorrhea and chlamydia yearly.
• Pregnant individuals → test for syphilis, HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C early in pregnancy. 
• Sexually active gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men should test:
  • At least once a year for syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. Please get tested more frequently if you have multiple or anonymous partners.
  • At least once a year for HIV.
  • At least once a year for hepatitis C, especially if living with HIV.
• People who have engaged in oral or anal sex should speak with their healthcare provider about throat and rectal testing options.
• Individuals who participate in activities that put them at risk of contracting HIV, such as unprotected sex and sharing needles, should get tested annually.
• Adults and adolescents from ages 13 to 64 → test for HIV at least once.

Free STD Testing in Pennsylvania

Maintaining a healthy and fulfilling sex life is essential to your overall well-being. At Novus, we’re committed to making your visits here as comfortable as possible – all while adhering to the highest safety standards.

To receive your free STD test, please visit our website and request your appointment today!

Sexual Health Self-Care: 4 Tips For A Healthy Sex Life

Sexual health self-care can be a fun and rewarding aspect of your life. Learning how to take care of yourself before, during, and after an intimate encounter is an important part of being a sexually healthy individual.  

Whether you’re in an established relationship or looking to increase your chances of finding someone new, there are many ways to practice sexual health self-care on your own! 

1. Don’t Skip Your Yearly Wellness Visit

No matter how healthy you feel, it’s important to visit your doctor for routine checkups. This is especially true when it comes to sexual health. Seeing your doctor regularly can help catch any problems early and ensure you stay healthy year-round.

2. Pick Your Preferred Prevention Options

Trying to decide which birth control method is right for you can be overwhelming. There are so many options available, and it’s hard to know which one will work best for your body and lifestyle. If you are undecided about what birth control options best suit your needs, talk to your doctor; they will be happy to help you understand the pros and cons of each method and help you choose the one that’s right for you.

Additionally, we recommend talking to your trusted healthcare provider about taking PrEP: Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis and PEP: Post Exposure Prophylaxis. PrEP provides daily protection against HIV while PEP is an emergency medication taken following potential exposure to HIV. You can learn more about PrEP and PEP here.

3. Be Open With Your Partner About Safe Practices

Maintaining honest and transparent conversations about safe sex practices with your partner is paramount to your overall health and relationship. This means being open about what safe practices you’re comfortable with and ensuring your partner is pleased with them too.

If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few tips to help you get the conversation started:

• Make sure you’re on the same page about safe sex practices.
• Communicate before, during and after sex.
• If you’re in pain or uncomfortable, tell your partner immediately.
• Talk about birth control options and which one is more comfortable for you both.

4. Get Tested For STIs 

Getting tested for STIs regularly is the best way to ensure you and your partner(s) make informed decisions about your sexual health. It will also help you determine if you have an STI so you can get treatment as soon as possible. 

Finding a provider you trust and feel comfortable with is essential to ensure a seamless experience when addressing your sexual health; consider asking friends for recommendations and prepare a list of questions before your first visit to make sure you feel at ease. 

Sexual Wellness Care Professionals In Pennsylvania

Maintaining a fulfilling and happy sex life is an important part of your overall well-being. Here at Novus, we want you to always feel safe and respected when visiting one of our care centers.

Request an appointment today on our website or give us a call at any of our 5 Pennsylvania locations!

Everything You Need to Know About Hep C 

Hepatitis C, also known as Hep C, is a serious liver inflammation caused by the Hepatitis C virus. Because it progresses slowly, individuals with Hepatitis C are often asymptomatic for a long time; therefore, regular testing is recommended as a measure to detect infection as soon as possible. 

What else should you know about Hepatitis C? 

At Novus, we believe that the more you know, the better prepared you will be to actively prevent infection or act quickly if you think you might have contracted this virus. Read on to learn more about the effects and consequences Hep C can have on the human body.

How Is Hep C Transmitted?

Hepatitis C is bloodborne, which means it can only be transmitted through exposure to blood that carries the virus. It is often hard to determine how or when an individual contracted Hep C. However, there are several high-risk activities that are often at the root of these infections; some examples are: 

• Sharing drug use equipment; especially needle sharing.
• Sharing piercing or tattoo tools.
• Blood transfusions. 
• Organ transplants.
• Non-sterile medical equipment.
• Sexual contact.

Is Hep C Curable?

If left untreated, Hepatitis C can cause serious scarring in the liver, cancer, and liver failure. However, nowadays, advanced treatment and care make it possible for individuals who have been infected with Hepatitis C to fully recover with minimal side effects. An individual will be considered cured when tests can no longer detect traces of the virus in their blood three months after the end of the treatment. 

How Can I Protect Myself From Hep C?

The most effective way to prevent Hepatitis C is to avoid using any item that has potentially been into contact with another individual’s blood.

Despite the chances of sexual Hep C transmission being low, they are not nonexistent. Therefore, barrier methods are recommended. 

Additionally, if you think you might have contracted Hep C, it is paramount that you get tested right away to begin treatment and avoid transmitting the virus. 

Hep C Care For All

If you know or believe you have contracted Hep C, it is crucial that you visit a trusted healthcare professional right away. At Novus, we are committed to offering a personalized approach to all our patients. From testing to diagnosis and treatment, our dedicated providers have the experience to come up with a plan to help cure your Hep C. 

Request an appointment today on our website or give us a call at any of our 5 Pennsylvania locations!

U=U Explained

For decades, doctors and scientists researched and found evidence that high viral loads were at the center of increased HIV transmission rates. In the mid-’90s, major advances in antiretroviral therapy proved that a triple-drug treatment could durably suppress the virus to minimal levels. 

In 2016, Prevention Access launched the U=U (Undetectable=Untransmittable) campaign, a movement that aims to raise awareness about HIV transmission, promote treatment plans and educate on prevention methods. Since then, U=U has been recognized by the global medical and scientific community as a motto that has changed lives, broken stigmas, and stopped transmissions. But what does U=U really mean?

The Meaning of Undetectable & Untransmittable HIV 

Early diagnosis and treatment of HIV are crucial to prevent the spread of the virus and to achieve viral load suppression, the reduction of HIV in the body to undetectable levels. Therefore, if you are an individual living with HIV and the virus levels in your body are neutralized by effective ART (antiretroviral therapy) treatment, HIV becomes untransmittable, and the risk of contagion nonexistent. 

Staying Undetectable

Antiretroviral medicines do not cure HIV, but they can control it. Properly following ART treatment, as prescribed by a healthcare provider, will decrease an individual’s viral load to very low levels and could render it undetectable over time. Starting treatment as soon as possible is crucial to effectively stop the virus from multiplying. 

Patience is key; take into account that, for the virus to be considered untransmittable, an individual living with the HIV will need to be undetectable for six months – typically, a minimum of two viral load tests will be taken over this period of time to assess the status of the infection. If you are an individual living with HIV, don’t forget to take your medicines as directed and visit your doctor frequently for checkups, it could save lives!  

Learn More About U=U by Visiting One of Our PA Locations 

If you believe you may have contracted HIV, it is paramount that you visit a trained provider as soon as possible to get tested and start ART. The team of qualified, experienced staff at Novus is committed to providing high-quality care for each patient throughout every visit. 

Contact us today to request an appointment at one of our five Pennsylvania locations; we look forward to meeting you. 

Everything You Need to Know About Post-Exposure Prophylaxis

PEP, not to be confused with PrEP, stands for post-exposure prophylaxis, a short course of medicines that individuals can start taking very soon after being exposed to HIV. This treatment aims to prevent the virus from spreading through your body. 

In order for PEP to be effective, it must be taken within three days (72 hours) of possible exposure; it will not work after that period of time. Remember that every hour counts! 

Do You Need PEP?

If you are HIV-negative or don’t know your HIV status and believe you may have been exposed to HIV within the last 72 hours, PEP might be right for you. Contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible or go to an emergency room or urgent care facility where a team of medical experts will evaluate you and put together a treatment plan to prevent HIV infection. 

PEP should only be used in emergency situations and is not intended to replace other HIV preventive measures.

How To Take PEP

Once you get to a healthcare facility, a doctor or nurse will assess your situation, do some testing, and decide whether PEP is right for you. If you are prescribed a PEP treatment, you will have to take a medication regimen for at least 28 days. Moreover, you might have to return to your doctor’s office throughout your treatment process for additional testing.

Does PEP Work?

Taking every dose is paramount for PEP to work. However, keep in mind that, while this treatment method is often successful at stopping HIV infection, it is not 100% effective; continue protecting yourself and others from HIV while on PEP. 

Exposed? Contact Our Offices for an Appointment

If you believe you may have been exposed to an HIV infection, please call your closest NOVUS location as soon as possible to schedule an appointment with one of our nurse practitioners; mention that you may have been exposed and that you need an appointment urgently and one of our friendly staff will help you out. 

Telling Your Partner(s) You Have An STD

Discussing sexuality and sexual health openly is a topic our society still has to overcome. The stigma surrounding STDs can be very damaging and increase the risk of STD transmission for fear of speaking up. 

So, what should you do if you test positive for an STD? Follow our advice and ensure that you and your partner(s) stay safe and find adequate help, treatment and support. 

Get Tested

If you believe you have contracted an STD, the first step you should take is to get tested. Take into account that most STDs don’t show symptoms in the early stages and can be asymptomatic altogether but can still be passed on to others.  

To ensure you are practicing safe sex, get tested at the beginning of any sexual relationship and again a few months later. 

Understand The Facts

Having an educated conversation about STDs and sexual health is key. Hence why it is advisable to talk to a medical professional and do some research before communicating with your partner(s). 

The more you know, the lower the risk of contracting an STD will be. 

Talk To Your Partner(s)

Whether your relationship is casual or long-term, it is extremely important to let your companion(s) know you have an STD before you have sexual intercourse. However, if you have oral herpes, it is important that you tell them before you kiss. 

This will give you all the opportunity to make informed decisions about your sexual health and life. Additionally, you will be able to take precautions and practice safe sex. 

Choose a Safe Place

When you feel prepared to have the talk with your partner(s), try to choose a place that makes you feel calm and comfortable. However, if you are worried their reaction will be violent, you do not have to meet face to face. 

Opt instead for a phone call or video chat that will allow you an escape if the situation turns sour.

Possible Questions To Ask

Try starting the conversation by letting your partner(s) know that you care about them and their well-being. Start by asking them about their sexual history and their knowledge about STDs. 

Once you tell them you have an STD, make them feel comfortable by offering to respond to any questions they may have and explain the different ways in which you can practice safe sex. 

Free STI/STD Testing in Pennsylvania

Maintaining a safe and healthy sex life is paramount and a part of your overall well-being. Here at Novus, our patients are our top priority; we vow to make you feel safe and welcome when you visit our centers.

Visit our website and schedule your appointment today to receive a free STD/STI test! 

Treatment for New HIV Diagnosis and Undetectability Explained

If you have recently been diagnosed with HIV, it is likely you have a ton of questions. The good news is that, even though there isn’t a cure for it yet, HIV is a treatable condition. The astounding medical advances of the past few years are making it possible for people living with HIV to lead long, normal, and healthy lives. 

We are here to guide you through different options and to answer any questions you may have about HIV treatment. 

Antiretroviral Therapy For People Living With HIV

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) attacks and destroys a specific type of white blood cells, thus interfering with the body’s ability to fight infections. HIV is transmitted through certain bodily fluids, usually blood, semen, and breast milk. If left untreated, HIV can slowly turn into AIDS, the most advanced and dangerous stage of HIV infection. 

If you believe you may have contracted HIV, the first step you need to take is to get tested; ask your partner(s) to do the same. Even though there is no cure for the virus yet, it can be successfully controlled with the appropriate treatment. 

As soon as your diagnosis is confirmed, it is important that you see a trained provider who will be able to prescribe your HIV medication. The most effective medication to control HIV is called antiretroviral therapy (often referred to as ART). If followed exactly as prescribed, ART can reduce the amount of HIV in your body to undetectable levels, allowing you to continue to live a healthy life, all while protecting your partner(s) from infection. 

There are 31 ARTs approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat HIV. Although these treatments do not cure HIV or AIDS, they are excellent at suppressing the virus to undetectable levels. 

Pre-Exposure HIV Prevention

HIV- negative people can prevent becoming infected by taking a once-a-day pill. Pre-exposure HIV prevention, also known as PrEP, is a  safe medication that is considered very effective in putting a stop to HIV transmission. PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99% and at least 74% from injection drug use. 

Since PrEP only protects against HIV, condom use is still advised for protection against other STDs. 

HIV Undetectable Viral Load

The term “viral load” refers to the amount of HIV in your body. Antiretroviral therapy can reduce this viral load to very low levels; this process is called viral suppression. When this happens, the viral load becomes undetectable, allowing people living with HIV to lead a healthy life, all while suppressing the risk of transmitting the virus to their partners. 

Having an undetectable viral load does not mean you are cured of HIV; if you stop the ART treatment, it would increase and become, once again, detectable. 

Reliable HIV Care You Can Count On

Finding a knowledgeable health care provider is the first step to managing HIV and staying undetectable. At Novus, we provide confidential services and support to sexually active adults. We are here for you regardless of your gender, sexual identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, or financial status. 

Additionally, while we accept most major insurance policies, we also have a reduced-cost patient assistance program for those who are under or uninsured, making effective HIV care accessible for all.

Request your appointment today on our website!

When You Should Get Tested for STDs/STIs

There is still a high percentage of our population that lacks the necessary knowledge and information to determine what to do when suspicious of having contracted a sexually transmitted disease. STDs and STIs are very common and spread easily, which is why it is essential to know their symptoms and act quickly if you believe you have contracted one. 

What Should I Do If I Think I Have an STD/STI?

If you believe you have contracted an STD/STI the first thing you should do is get checked by a medical professional. Most STIs and STDs can be successfully treated even if you don’t have symptoms; avoiding testing and treatment can lead to serious health issues. There are different tests for each STD/STI, so make sure you tell your medical provider which one you believe you may have been exposed to.  Once you have been diagnosed with an STD/STI, talk to your current sexual partners to let them know that they have been exposed and suggest that they undergo testing and treatment as well. 

Reliable test results can be obtained as soon as one week after exposure for gonorrhea and chlamydia, 2 weeks to 3 months for syphilis and 2 weeks to 3 months for HIV, Hepatitis C, and Hepatitis B. If you believe you have been exposed to HIV or hepatitis B seek care immediately. Now, if you have been infected in the past, it is advisable that you get tested again three months after treatment to make sure that the STD/STI is gone or under control.

Screening tests can help determine whether an individual has been infected when they may not have any symptoms. It is recommended that everyone with an active sex life gets STD/STI screening regularly; early diagnosis can help you recover faster if infected, depending on what you may have contracted.

Free STI/STD Testing in Pennsylvania

Every aspect of your sex life is important, especially maintaining a safe and healthy one.  Patients are our top priority here at Novus; we will make sure that you feel safe and welcome. To receive your free STD test, visit our website and schedule your appointment today!

How to Lessen the Chance of STDs

In 2019, the CDC shared that there were more than 2.5 million cases of chlamydia, syphilis, and gonorrhea reported. This has led the U.S. to reach an all-time high (in terms of STD cases) for the sixth year in a row. Although that number did decrease in 2020, due to the global pandemic, sexually transmitted diseases are still a serious issue that must be taken seriously.

To help keep you and your partner safe during sexual activity, here are ways to help lessen the chance of STDs from being transmitted.

Get Tested

Without a doubt, it’s vital to know your status. Unlike the common cold, symptoms of STDs don’t present themselves right away; there’s a chance you could have acquired an STD from a partner and not be aware of it until it’s too late. And failure to know your status can result in not only spreading that STD to your partner but can also health-related problems for you, such as infertility. 

On average, those sexually active should schedule an STD test at least once a year, as well as an HIV test (even though HIV is technically classified as an STI — a sexually transmitted infection). However, the CDC recommends that sexually active gay and bisexual men should consider scheduling HIV testing at least once every three to six months.

Use Latex Condoms

Especially if you are having sex with a new partner, you should strongly consider using a latex condom. Although condoms are not 100% effective at preventing sexually transmitted diseases or pregnancy, they are very effective when used properly. Also, if you are using a lubricant, you’ll want to make sure that it’s water or silicone-based — since oil-based lubricants can break down latex condoms, which can result in a rupture.

At Novus, we have free latex condoms at all of our locations.

Take PrEP

In addition to regular testing and using latex condoms, you may also want to consider taking PrEP to help lessen the chance of contracting HIV. Short for “pre-exposure prophylaxis,” PrEP is a once-daily NRTI (Nucleoside/Nucleotide Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor) that will help create a barrier around your CD4 cells (white blood/T cells).

When taken as prescribed, the antiviral medication will help your body reach maximum protection. This means that if HIV were to come face-to-face with your white blood cells, the barrier PrEP creates would help lessen the chance of the human immunodeficiency virus from replicating.

Free, Confidential STD Testing in Pennsylvania

For free and confidential STD testing in Pennsylvania, Novus is here to help. At each of our locations, every individual is offered testing for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Syphilis, HIV, and Hepatitis C, as well as rapid testing for HIV, Hepatitis C, and Syphilis.

When your test is complete, a member of our staff will contact you (via phone) with your results. Of course, we also offer hard copies of test results as long as you provide us with identification at the time of your appointment.

Additionally, contact us today if you would like to begin taking PrEP or find out if PrEP is right for you. Our team will make every effort to provide you with a stress-free experience; we take care of all the paperwork. Plus, 99% of our patients qualify for no out-of-pocket expenses when prescribed this life-saving medication.

To request an appointment at Novus, fill out this form or give your closest location a call.

What Should I Know About PrEP?

PrEP, which stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis, is a once-daily medication that is safe and effective at preventing HIV. While PrEP is an excellent choice for those at risk of contracting human immunodeficiency viruses, some are skeptical of taking it; they may question how PrEP works and how effective it is. 

The team at Novus explains what everyone should know about PrEP.

What is PrEP?

Classified under nucleoside/nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) antiviral medications, PrEP helps reduce the risk of contracting HIV through sex (anal and vaginal) by about 99% when taken daily. That said, PrEP reaches maximum protection for receptive anal sex in about seven days, while it takes about 21 days of daily use for maximum protection during receptive vaginal sex.

How Does PrEP Work?

Before diving into how PrEP works within the body, you must first know what happens when HIV enters the bloodstream. When an individual is diagnosed with HIV, the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome destroys the body’s CD4 cells — the white blood cells (also known as T cells and leukocytes) that help fight infection and support the immune system.

When an individual takes PrEP (as prescribed) and reaches maximum protection, this antiviral medication will create a barrier around the body’s CD4 cells. That way, if HIV were to come in contact with the body’s white blood cells, the “fence” that PrEP creates will help prevent HIV from replicating and destroying the T cells.

PrEP HIV Prevention in Pennsylvania

If you would like to find out if PrEP is right for you, contact the Novus team today. We handle all of the paperwork to provide you with a hassle-free experience. Plus, 99% of our patients pay $0 for the medication with no out-of-pocket expenses. 

To request an appointment, fill out a quick form.