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The ABCs of STDs

Sexual Health

Condoms can aid in the prevention of HIV/AIDS but may not be as effective in treating other types of sexually transmitted diseases. There is also a source of protection for men so that they will not contract gonorrhea from their female partner. As to the protection from other sexually transmitted diseases, studies have not been able to prove conclusively that condoms prevent the contraction of other sexually transmitted diseases.

How can practicing safe sex help in the prevention of sexually transmitted diseases? There are several things to consider before entering into a sexual relationship. Before entering a sexual relationship with a partner, it is always a good idea to first talk to your partner about their sexual history, as well as you disclosing yours. If you have any doubts in the sincerity, both of you should be tested for any STDs before you engage in sexual intimacy. As strange it sounds pregnancy is not the only possible outcome anymore of a sexual encounter. There are many STDs that can be passed between partners so it is important to practice safe sex to lessen the possibility of becoming infected. Here are some “safer” sex options:

  • Barriers such as the male or female condoms
  • Dental dams
  • Finger cots
  • Latex gloves

Every year in the United States, more and more sexually transmitted diseases are reported. In today’s society, the growing number of teens in the reports is on the rise. Proper education of our teens is imperative if we are going to slow down the rampant spread of sexually transmitted diseases. Let us look at some important facts that should be addressed to both men and women, young and old – anyone who is sexually active:

Sexually transmitted diseases do not care what gender, your age, or your economic background. They affect everyone. Today men and women are more likely to have multiple partners and the reality that every single one of them will not always be honest. It is important that if you have any change in the pelvic region, to be checked. STDs can also have the same symptoms as other diseases and you cannot know for sure unless you see a medical professional. What makes STDs difficult to stop is that the person infected may not have any symptoms at all and still be a carrier thus infecting all those they sleep with. If you have multiple partners, periodic testing is of the utmost importance.

For women of childbearing age some sexually transmitted diseases can spread to the uterus along with the fallopian tubes. This can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and can be a cause of infertility and ectopic pregnancies. STDs may also be a contributing factor of cervical cancer, genital warts, as well as other genital cancers. Sexually transmitted disease are also transferred from mother to baby. This can happen before, during, or after pregnancy through breast-feeding.

If the STD is detected early enough and treatment is started, many of the diseases can be controlled. Some infections have become immune to medications that are used to treat them. Researchers are constantly looking for new ways to treat sexually transmitted diseases. Here is a list of some sexually transmitted diseases.

  • HIV/AIDS
  • Chlamydial Infection
  • Genital Herpes
  • Genital Warts
  • Gonorrhea
  • Syphillis

What is the best way to prevent sexually transmitted diseases? The best way is to avoid contact with those who carry the disease. Other ways include:

  • Engage in a monogamous relationship with the knowledge that your partner is not infected
  • Use condoms correctly and consistently
  • The younger you are when you have sex, the likelihood of contracting STDs increases
  • Avoid anal intercourse but if you do practice this, use a condom
  • Douching removes normal bacteria that is in the vagina to protect it

If you have been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted disease, it is important to get the right treatment through consultation with a health care provider. Notify your sexual partners. Avoid all sexual activity until the STD is gone. If you do not want your primary health care provider to know or are embarrassed in anyway, there are many clinics available that you can go to for treatment. Do not put off getting treatment if you think you may have been infected. If you delay treatment, you lessen your chances of controlling the disease.

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