STDs

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are diseases that are transmitted via sexual acts. They affect millions of people around the world every year. Anyone who is sexually active is at risk for contracting any one of the nearly two dozen STDs, including AIDS, chlamydia, HPV, genital warts, gonorrhea, hepatitis and herpes.

Not only are STDs thoroughly unpleasant, but many are incurable and some are even fatal. That’s the bad news. Now, here’s the good news: every STD is preventable if you take the time to eliminate the risk factors.

The key to preventing STDs is to understand how they are transmitted. The majority of STDs are transmitted exclusively through sexual contact. This includes not only vaginal intercourse, but also oral and anal sex. There are a few STDs that can be transferred in other ways, such as skin-to-skin contact and the sharing of needles for drug use or tattooing. STDs can also be passed on from mother to baby during childbirth.

If you think you may have an STD, get tested immediately.

5 Things You Need to Know

  1. STD prevention and contraception go hand in hand, but it's important to note that they aren't the same thing. Condoms can prevent both the spread of STDs and pregnancy, but other contraceptive methods (such as the pill), aren't effective in stopping the transmission STDs. The only way to guarantee that you won’t get an STD is to abstain from sex. If you can’t hold off forever, try waiting at least until both you and your partner have been tested.
  2. Many STDs don’t show symptoms until the more advanced stages, so it’s common for people not to know they are infected.
  3. Testing for STDs is simple and relatively painless. There are various methods for testing, depending on the condition. Some STDs can be detected through a urine sample or swab, while others may require a blood test.
  4. Most STD testing is confidential or anonymous. Confidential test results go on your medical record, where they can only be seen by you and medical professionals. Some clinics even offer anonymous tests for HIV (this means that no one other than you - not even your doctor - will know if you test positive).
  5. Some STDs can be cured with antibiotics. Others cannot be cured but can be effectively managed using medication.

3 Questions You Need to Ask Your Doctor

  1. Am I at risk for contracting an STD?
  2. How can I help ensure that I am protected from STDs?
  3. How can I tell if my sexual partner has an STD?

Also Known As: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), venereal disease (VD)

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Each of us is unique, and we all deserve the individual attention that only a health care professional can provide. So do what’s in your best interest - take the next step and find doctors or surgeons in your area today.