Dr. Shim recently contributed to a Singapore local Chinese language newspaper on the topic of HPV vaccination for males. Here is the translated english version.
Continue readingWhy Haven’t We Developed a Genital Herpes Vaccine Yet?
Genital herpes is one of the most common STDs. It’s been around for millennia, historical records suggest. Unfortunately, pharmaceutical companies haven’t managed to develop an effective vaccine for it yet. There are several reasons why the HSV-2 virus proves to be exceptionally difficult to tackle.
Continue readingWhen Should You Get Tested for Some of the Most Common STDs
Usually, you are not going to test positive for an STD immediately after getting infected. There’s an incubation period that’s characterised by the pathogen being undetectable. Hence, you should wait some time before getting an STD test. Here are some testing timeframes for a few of the most common STDs in Singapore.
Continue readingThe First 3 Days After Sexual Assault Are Crucial for HIV Prevention: Here’s What to Do
Recoveries from sexual assault can be long and troublesome. Survivors would have to go through counselling and extensive medical assistance to start healing. Acting fast in the aftermath of assault should be prioritised. The first 72 hours are incredibly important, especially when it comes to the prevention of HIV.
Continue readingHow to Talk to Your Partner about STDs
Few topics make people as uncomfortable as the topic of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Still, this is something that partners have to discuss, especially if they’re entering into a committed relationship. Talking about STDs, testing and protection can strengthen the bond between two people and result in fewer problems down the line.
Continue readingSTD Stigma in Singapore Still Prevalent. Here’s How We Can All Change That
While Singapore offers reliable and modern STD treatment options (including HIV management), society is still lagging behind when it comes to de-stigmatisation. Prejudices still abound, especially when it comes to HIV-positive individuals. The government is trying to change the situation but lasting progress is also dependent on the effort of every single Singaporean.
Continue readingWhat You Need to Know about April – STD Awareness Month
April is recognised as STD Awareness Month and many parts of the world carry out awareness campaigns within those 30 days. Singapore is still lagging behind in terms of social acceptance and STD de-stigmatisation. If you want to be a change ambassador, you can do a couple of simple but very effective things this year.
Continue readingWhat Happens When You Visit a Sexual Health Clinic for the First Time
Singapore has excellent sexual health clinics that offer an array of screening, consultation and treatment services. Unfortunately, many people are afraid to visit due to social stigmatisation and personal insecurities. If you’re planning a first visit to a sexual health clinic and you’re hesitant about it, the following guide will teach you the essentials.
Continue readingWhite Blood Cell Treatment Shows Promise for Both HIV and AIDS Patients
A clinical study is currently underway, attempting to develop an alternative treatment for HIV and AIDS. Instead of using a daily dose of antiretroviral medications, researchers are extracting and modifying the white blood cells of HIV-positive patients. Preliminary results have shown a lot of promise.
Continue readingWhat Are the Best Ways to Prevent HIV Transmission?
How exactly does HIV spread? Most people are aware of the fact that the virus is passed through sexual contact. But are there other transmission methods and what can be done to reduce risks? There’s still a lot of misconception out there that could contribute to incorrect practices and risky behaviours.
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