The Facts of Life
The ABCs of STDs
There are simple ways to prevent sexually transmitted diseases
(STDs). The only guaranteed way to prevent STDs is to avoid having
sexual relations. If you do have sex, limit the number of partners
you have and use a latex condom every time you have sex. Getting
checked for STDs will reduce the likelihod that you'll pass it to
someone else. Knowing the symptoms of STDs will help you recognize
an infection in you or your sex partner.
If you have an STD, you can prevent spreading it. If you suspect
that you have an STD, stop having sex until you see a doctor. If
you are diagnosed with an STD, follow your doctor's treatment instructions.
Do not resume having sex unless your doctor tells you it's okay
to do so. Make sure your sex partner sees a doctor and receives
treatment, too.
Symptoms of STDs
Sometimes there are no symptoms of sexually transmitted disease
(STD). If there symptoms, they may incude one or more of the following:
- Sores or warts near the mouth, anus, penis or vagina
- Skin rash
- Redness or swelling near the penis or vagina
- Pain when urinating
- Pain during sex
- Weight loss
- Diarrhea
- Aches
- Fever and chills
- Jaundice
- Discharge from penis or vagina
- Vaginal bleeding (other than menstruation)
- Itching near penis or vagina
Treating an STD
There are treatments available to lessen the symptoms of many STDs,
and some that can cure certain STDs. Antibiotics are used to treat
many STDS. When taking an antibiotic, it's important to finish all
the medicine, even if your symptoms go away.
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