In today's sexually active society, understanding the risks and preventive measures for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is crucial. With the advent of approach like DoxyPEP, with clear effectiveness of drugs such as Azithromycin, and Doxycycline, there's a growing emphasis on proactive prevention, especially following unprotected sexual encounters. This comprehensive article aims to shed light on these medications and their role in preventing Chlamydia, Gonorrhea and Syphilis, two common yet often silent infections. By spreading awareness and providing accessible solutions, we can significantly reduce the spread of these infections, thereby safeguarding your individual health and public wellbeing.
The use of medications after potential exposure to STIs during unprotected sex has shown promising efficiency in preventing Chlamydia, Gonorrhea and Syphilis. The protocol generally involves a single dose of either Doxycycline 200mg or Azithromycin 1000mg, administered ideally within the first 24 hours post-exposure. However, these medications maintain a high success rate if taken within the first 72 hours. This preventive measure is crucial not just for vaginal intercourse, but also for oral and anal sex, where the risk of transmission still exists.
Chlamydia and Gonorrhea can often lurk in the body without any noticeable symptoms, leading to what's known as asymptomatic contamination. Individuals may carry and transmit these infections unknowingly, thereby contributing to their spread. Prophylaxis with Doxycycline or Azithromycin post-unprotected sex acts as a crucial barrier, preventing the silent proliferation of these bacteria among sexual partners and the broader community.
In Brazil, routine testing for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea, unfortunatelly, is not as prevalent as in other countries. This lack of widespread testing is partly due to limited access to sexual health services and the high cost of these tests in private laboratories, ranging from R$ 300 to R$ 700 for what is called a STD Panel for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea and Mycoplasm on urine. These factors contribute to a lower frequency of testing among the general population, which in turn exacerbates the spread of these infections.
The infrequent testing for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea leads to a significant gap in awareness, both among the general public and healthcare professionals in Brazil. Many Brazilians, when asked about STD testing, may only consider blood tests for HIV, Syphilis, Hepatitis B, and C, remaining unaware of the need for specific tests for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea. This lack of awareness and testing feeds into a cycle of increased undiagnosed cases and higher transmission rates. On recent years, with the increase use of PrEP, there has been a noticeable reduction in condom use, which can contribute to higher rates transmition for other diseases such as Chlamydia and Gonorrhea.
My Brazilian Doctor is committed to simplifying access to post-exposure prophylaxis. Offering same-day teleconsultations, we ensure that English speaking visitors can receive immediate guidance and digital prescriptions for Azithromycin or Doxycycline, valid in any Brazilian pharmacy. This streamlined process not only assists in preventing infections but also provides peace of mind to those concerned about recent exposures.
Prevention is always better than cure, especially when it comes to STIs. My Brazilian Doctor offers solutions for both circunstances, so if you have any symptoms we can guide you through treatment, prescribed with digital prescription, and testing.
By understanding DoxyPEP (or Doxy 200) and utilizing drugs, like Azithromycin, and Doxycycline, we can take a proactive stance against Chlamydia and Gonorrhea and Syphilis. The key is to act swiftly and responsibly post-unprotected sex, ensuring personal safety and contributing to the broader effort to control these infections. Stay informed, stay protected, and remember that My Brazilian Doctor is here to support you every step of the way.
Responsible for the content:
Dr. Fabio L Vieira is a Family Physician licensed to practice in Brazil, with over two decades of experience in both Brazilian and UK healthcare systems. Besides his medical background in Brazil, he completed part of his academic training in the UK, holding a master's degree in International Health Management from Imperial College London. As a General Practitioner, he has developed a close interest in Sexually Transmitted Infections due to their prevalence and impact, and he is committed to researching preventive strategies for STDs. Dr. Vieira acts as a Guest Lecturer at UNESP, contributing to the university's Family Doctors training program. He is the principal consultant at My Brazilian Doctor, providing personalized care for English-speaking visitors and expatriates in Brazil. To contact him directly, please email fabio.vieira16@alumni.imperial.ac.uk and for general enquiries info@mybraziliandoctor.com.
References:
1. Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. (2023). Preventative antibiotics for STIs. Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. https://publichealth.jhu.edu/2023/preventative-antibiotics-for-stis
2. Miranda AE, Freitas FLS, Passos MRL, Lopez MAA, Pereira GFM. Public policies on sexually transmitted infections in Brazil. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop. 2021 May 17;54(suppl 1):e2020611. doi: 10.1590/0037-8682-611-2020. PMID: 34008725; PMCID: PMC8210478. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8210478/
Technical Director: Dr Fabio L Vieira