Hannelis Olmos #16 3a Nursering
Sexually transmitted diseases, also known as STDs or STIs (sexually transmitted infections) are infectious diseases that spread from person to person through intimate contact. STDs affect sexually active men of all ages and backgrounds (regardless of whether they are rich or poor) women.
Unfortunately, STDs have become a common condition among teens. Because teens are more at risk for STDs, it is important to learn what protective measures can be taken.
STDs are more than an embarrassment. They are a serious health problem. If untreated, some STDs can cause permanent damage, such as infertility (inability to have children) and even death (in the case of HIV / AIDS).
How STDs are spread
One of the reasons for the spread of STDs is that people think they can only be spread by having sex. That's not true. People can get some STDs, like herpes or genital warts, through skin contact with an infected area or sore.
Another myth about STDs is that they are not spread by having oral or anal sex. That's not true, because the viruses or bacteria that cause STDs can enter the body through tiny cuts or tears in the mouth and anus, and genitals.
STDs also spread easily because they are infections that are not noticeable. In fact, many people with STDs do not even know they have them. These people are at risk of transmitting the infection to their sexual partners without realizing it.
Some of the factors that increase the chances of getting an STD are:
Sexual activity at an early age. The sooner an individual starts having sex, the greater your chance of getting an STD.
Multiple sexual partners. People who have sexual contact (not just sex, but any type of intimate activity) with many different partners are more at risk than those who always have the same pair.
Unprotected sex. Latex condoms should always be used, since they are the only form of contraception to reduce the risk of STDs. Spermicides, diaphragms, and other birth control methods may help
Prevention and treatment of STDs
As with many other diseases, prevention is key. It's much easier to prevent STDs than to treat them. The only way to completely prevent STDs is to abstain from any sexual contact. If someone has decided to have sex, the best way to reduce the chances of contracting an STD is to use a condom every time.
Individuals currently considering the possibility of having sex gynecological or male genital examinations should be performed regularly. This has two reasons. First, using these tests the doctor can inform people about STDs and how to protect them. Second, regular exams give doctors more opportunities for STDs when they are still in their initial stage, it is easier to treat.
For these tests and doctor visits are useful, the doctor should know if the patient is considering having sex or have already begun to do. This applies to any type of sex: oral, vaginal and anal. In addition, the doctor should know if you have ever had any type of sexual contact, even if it was in the past.
Do not let the embarrassment of having an STD keep you from getting care. Postpone the visit to a doctor may promote disease progression and cause further damage. If you think you hav
e an STD or if there is a possibility that his partner has an STD, you should consult a doctor immediately.
If you do not have a doctor or if you prefer not to consult with your doctor, maybe you can find a nearby clinic where confidential examination can be performed. Some local and national organizations have STD hotlines staffed by trained specialists who can answer your questions and provide referrals. Calls to these hotlines are confidential. A direct line you can call for information is the National STD Hotline at 1-800-227-8922.
Not all infections of the genitals are caused by STDs. Sometimes, people may have symptoms much like those of STDs even if they have never had sex. For women, yeast infection can easily be confused with an STD. Men may worry about bumps on the penis that sometimes are just pimples or irritated hair follicles. For this reason, it is important to consult a doctor if you have questions about your sexual health.