Contracting STDs

Everyday you hear more and more about the dangers of STDs.  You already probably have several friends who have been diagnosed with different types of STDs, although you may not be aware of this.  The statistics telling you about the number of reported cases of STDs is going up, and you know that these do not even count for all of the people infected with STDs.  You are beginning to wonder whether it is safe to have sex and what you can do to keep yourself protected?

Perhaps you are already one of the thousands of individuals who have received a STD diagnosis  Your doctor told you the name of what you have but you have no idea what this really is.  For how long are you contagious?  Is there a cure?  How did this happen, you thought you were safe.  For how long will you have to suffer with this condition?  Should you tell your partner?

Welcome to our sub section on Contracting STDs where you can get the answers to all of your questions about STDs, what they are, the different kinds of STDs, and how you can find out if you have one.  Early detection is often key for curing or treating STDs before they cause damage so find out what you should be doing to be safe.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Sexually transmitted diseases (also called STDs, or STIs for sexually transmitted infections) are infections that can be transferred from one person to another through sexual contact.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are over 15 million cases of sexually transmitted disease cases reported annually in the United States.  There are more than 25 diseases that are transmitted through sexual activity.  Other than HIV, the most common STDs in the United States are chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, genital herpes, human papillomavirus, hepatitis B, trichomoniasis and bacterial vaginosis.  Adolescents and young adults are the age groups at the greatest risk for acquiring an STD.  Approximately 19 million new infections occur each year, almost half of them among people ages 15-24.

Get Tested Before It Is Too Late

Some STDs can have severe consequences, especially in women, if not treated, which is why it is so important to go for STD testing.  Some STDs can lead to pelvic inflammatory diseases, which can cause infertility, while others may even be fatal.  STDs can be prevented by refraining from sexual activity and to a certain extent by using some contraceptive devices like condoms.  

For more information about STDs, cures for herpes and other diseases, check out our STD forum.

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