Do NFL Players Get Tested for STDs?
Contents
A new report says that NFL players are getting tested for STDs at an alarming rate.
Do NFL players get tested for STDs? The answer may surprise you.
Introduction
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections that are passed from one person to another through sexual contact. STDs can affect both men and women of all ages, but they are most common among young adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are approximately 20 million new STD infections in the United States every year.
While any type of sexual activity can lead to the spread of STDs, certain activities are more likely to transmit certain diseases. For example, unprotected vaginal or anal sex is more likely to transmit HIV than protected vaginal or anal sex. And, according to the CDC, “unprotected oral sex is a low-risk activity for HIV transmission.”
There are many different types of STDs, and symptoms can vary depending on the type of STD and the stage at which it is diagnosed. Some STDs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, can be cured with antibiotics while others, such as HIV and herpes, are incurable but can be managed with medication.
STDs are preventable through education and awareness, as well as through the use of condoms during sexual activity. In order to promote STD prevention, many organizations offer free or low-cost STD testing and counseling services.
What STDs do NFL players get tested for?
NFL players are tested for STDs at least once a year. They are tested for HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. Players are also tested for other STDs if they have symptoms or if they have been exposed to someone who has an STD.
Chlamydia
Chlamydia is a common bacterial STD that can infect both men and women. It often has no symptoms, but if left untreated, chlamydia can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, which can lead to infertility. Chlamydia can also cause inflammation of the testicles in men, which can lead to infertility.
Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is a bacterial infection that can be passed through sexual contact with an infected partner. The bacteria can infect the penis, vagina, cervix, rectum, throat, and eyes. Gonorrhea is most commonly spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It can also be passed from mother to baby during childbirth.
Symptoms of gonorrhea may appear 2-5 days after exposure. However, many people who are infected do not experience any symptoms. Symptoms in men may include:
-Burning sensation when urinating
-White, yellow, or green discharge from the penis
-Painful or swollen testicles
Symptoms in women may include:
-Burning sensation when urinating
-Increased vaginal discharge
-Painful or swollen vulva
-Bleeding between periods
-Pain during sex
If left untreated, gonorrhea can lead to serious health problems including infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the womb). Gonorrhea can also be passed from mother to baby during childbirth.
Syphilis
Syphilis is a bacterial infection that is usually transmitted through sexual contact. It can cause serious health problems if it is not treated, so it is important for NFL players to get tested for it on a regular basis. Syphilis can be cured with antibiotics, so it is important to get diagnosed and treated as soon as possible.
HIV/AIDS
NFL players are subject to the same testing requirements as other professional athletes in the United States. This means that they must be tested for HIV/AIDS, as well as other STDs, prior to becoming a professional player. In addition, players must also undergo regular testing for STDs throughout their careers.
How often are NFL players tested for STDs?
Every year, the NFL requires all players to get a physical examination which includes tests for STDs. Players are also tested for STDs at the combine. If a player tests positive for an STD, they will be treated and monitored.
Pre-season
Players are tested for STDs during the pre-season physical. At this time, a urine sample is taken and tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia. A blood sample is also taken and tested for HIV and syphilis.
Post-season
During the regular season, each team is required to provide the NFLPA with a list of all players who are subject to PED testing. These tests are done at least once during the season on an unannounced basis, with both urine and blood samples being taken. Players are also subject to random PED testing during the offseason.
In addition to PED testing, players are also tested for STDs on a regular basis. According to the NFL’s substance abuse policy, all players must be tested for HIV and other STDs at least once a year. Players who test positive for HIV or other STDs are subject to additional testing and counseling.
What happens if an NFL player tests positive for an STD?
Players in the NFL are at a higher risk for contracting STDs because of the frequency of contact with other players and because of their exposure to the general public. If an NFL player tests positive for an STD, they will be suspended from the league and will be required to undergo treatment.
Treatment
If an NFL player tests positive for an STD, the team’s medical staff will work with the player to create a treatment plan. The player will likely be placed on medication and may be referred to a specialist for more care. In some cases, the player may be sidelined from games or practices while they recover.
Suspension
If an NFL player tests positive for an STD, they will be suspended for a minimum of four games.
Conclusion
If you are concerned about STDs and you are sexually active, the best thing you can do is get tested regularly. If you are not sexually active, then you don’t need to be tested. NFL players are not required to be tested for STDs, but many of them are tested regularly because of their high-risk lifestyle.