PROTECTING YOURSELF FROM SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are diseases that are passed from one person to another by having sexual contact. There are many different types of STDs. Some have symptoms; others have no symptoms. Some can be treated; others have no treatment. Some can make you very sick and some can cause death. Teenagers and young adults get STDs more than any other age group.

It is possible to have an STD and not feel sick or have any symptoms. A person can unknowingly pass the STD along to another person. And sometimes a person may think they have a STD but is embarrassed or afraid to discuss it with a sexual partner. Abstinence from sexual activity is the only sure way to prevent an STD. If you or your sexual partner have engaged in sex, the only way to know if you have an STD is to be tested.

Having sex can be a very loving and special experience between two people. It also carries responsibility. Before deciding to have sex, think about what is right for you and the possible consequences. Find an adult you can openly discuss sex with and ask questions. Your parents are a great place to start. Adult relatives, teachers, school nurses, counselors, pastors, and your healthcare provider are also good resources.

Sexual activity, especially sexual intercourse, is risky if precautions are not taken. Think things through and talk with your sexual partner. If you have vaginal or anal intercourse and use a condom each and every time, you can protect yourself against almost all STDs. Condoms are sold in drugstores. Read the directions on how to use them. Never use a condom more than one time and, if it breaks, replace it immediately with a new one.

Facts about getting a sexually transmitted disease:

If you have more than one sexual partner your chance of getting an STD is higher.
Taking a shower or douching after sex does not prevent STDs.
Even if you have been treated for an STD, you can get it again.
You can get an STD with one sexual contact.
You can get an STD with oral sex.
Birth control methods do not prevent STDs.
If you are using another birth control method, a condom should still be used.
Alcohol or drug use can lead to taking risks if combined with sex. You might forget or not care about using a condom.

It is important to get medical treatment if you have symptoms of an STD. Treatment for sexually transmitted diseases is available through healthcare providers, health departments, and family planning clinics.

For more information about sexually transmitted diseases, call the 24-hour National STD and AIDS Hotline at (800) 227-8922 or (800) 342-2437. The Spanish speaking Hotline at (800) 344-7432 is available between the hours of 8:00 AM and 2:00 AM eastern standard time 7 days a week. The TTY line for the hearing impaired is (800) 243-7889 between 10:00 AM and 10:00 PM Monday through Friday eastern standard time. These hotlines are provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Information can also be obtained from their website at www.cdc.gov.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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