A. Sexually transmitted diseases, commonly known as STDs, were once referred to as venereal diseases. These diseases are contracted by having unprotected sex (vaginal, oral, or anal) with someone who is infected with an STD. Sexual contact includes kissing, oral-genital contact, and the shared use of sexual devices such as vibrators. Around for thousands of years, STDs are the most common infectious diseases in the United States. More than 25 STDs have been documented, many with different strains. The most dangerous of these diseases is the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, otherwise known as AIDS. STDs are widespread; more than 13 million people in the US are infected each year.

Without treatment, these diseases can lead to major health problems such as sterility (not being able to get pregnant), heart disease, cancer, permanent brain damage, and even death.

A. Condoms do not provide complete protection against all STDs, like herpes, HPV (warts), and syphilis. These diseases can still be transferred through contact with areas that are not covered by a condom. Condoms can provide some, though not complete, protection from some STDs such as gonorrhea, Chlamydia, HIV, and trichomoniasis. It's important to remember to use a latex condom. A natural or "skin" condom does not provide the same protection; the HIV virus and other STDs can pass through this type of condom. Non-latex polyurethane condoms also tend to break up to five times more frequently. Use a new latex condom or dental damn for each new sexual act. Always practice safe sex.

A. Many STDs are non-symptomatic, especially in women. By the time you have symptoms, the infection is usually advanced. The most common symptoms can include: sores or blisters on or around the sex organs or mouth; discharge from the vagina or penis that looks or smells unusual; itching; swelling; or pain in or around the sex organs; and pain or burning during urination. Also, if you have abdominal pain or unusual vaginal discharge that is yellow, gray, green with a strong odor (it is normal to have a clear or white discharge between periods). The only way to know if you have contracted an STD is to be tested. It's important to be treated early as STDs can result in infertility (not being able to get pregnant), and they can also be passed to a baby during pregnancy or birth.

A.

• Public Lice
• Gonorrhea
• Genital Herpes
• Chlamydia
• CMV
• Human Papillomavirus
• Hepatitis B
• Hepatitis C
• NGU
• Scabies
• Syphilis
• Vaginitis
• PID
• Molluscum
• HIV/Aids

A. There are several ways to test for an STD. (See specific STD links for more information.) The doctor generally begins by asking you questions about your risk elements. Next he or she will examine your skin, throat and genital area for growths, skin rashes, or sores, and also look inside your vagina and at your cervix (opening to the uterus). For men, the doctor may take a swab from inside your penis. The doctor may take a fluid or tissue sample from your skin, vaginal, or penis or anal areas and send it to a lab for testing. Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Trichomoniasis can be diagnosed with a urine test. Hepatitis C, Syphilis, and HIV are all blood-borne illnesses which require blood testing. None of these tests are painful and the benefits far outweigh a few minutes in stirrups, or a quick swab. The important thing is to have the test!

A. Vaginal or oral sex without the proper use of a latex condom. Anal sex tends to be a greater risk because there is more chance of bleeding. STDs are spread through bodily fluids, such as semen, blood, and vaginal secretions. Infection can also be contracted from skin or mucous membranes and sores in the mouth. Shared use of needles and syringes for drug use and unsanitary tattoo and body piercing equipment can all lead to an STD. STDs are on the rise in people under 25, because today people are having sex at a much earlier age. Anyone can be infected with an STD; all nationalities, economic levels and backgrounds are susceptible. The health issues triggered by STDs have a tendency to be worse in women. Over 15% of American women have been left infertile due to an untreated STD.

A. Many STDs can be treated, depending on the type and strain. Some can be cured completely, while with others only the symptoms can be managed. HIV, HPV, and hepatitis C and B are currently incurable. Some STDs do not show any symptoms, particularly in women, therefore spreading the disease without knowledge. Many doctors recommend periodic testing for STDs if you have more than one sexual partner. The only way to prevent STDs is abstinence or sex in a monogamous relationship where neither party is infected. Even kissing is not safe: syphilis, herpes, and a few other forms of STDs can be spread with even that somewhat innocent act. Several forms of STDs can even put your life in jeopardy if left untreated. STDs do not just affect your physical health; they can also take their toll on your emotional wellbeing. Before you begin a sexual relationship, make sure to ask if your partner has ever had an STD, or used intravenous drugs. If you notice a discharge, rash, open sores, or even an unpleasant odor, refrain from becoming intimate. Even a cold sore is a form of herpes. If you suspect you have an STD, see your doctor immediately for your best chance at a cure.