Are you at risk for an STD?

SCPRC | | 0 Comments

There are a few questions that need to be answered when looking at the risk of contracting an STD. First of all, let’s define what a STD is: a sexually transmitted disease (STD) or infection (STI) you can get from having sex or a sexual encounter. It only takes one sexual encounter to contract a STD or STI. Anytime there are bodily fluids present, male or female, there is risk. STIs can be passed from one person to another through vaginal, anal, and oral intercourse. Some STIs can also be passed through outercourse: kissing and touching of genital areas. Another way STIs can be passed is through sharing needles for injecting drugs (illegal or not), body piercings, and tattoos.

If you are having sex, it is important to educate yourself about STDs and STIs.

Some of the most commonly talked about STI/STDs are chlamydia, herpes, HPV, gonorrhea, syphilis, hepatitis B, and HIV/AIDS. It is important to know the sexual history of all partners as well as any STIs they may have had in the past and if they were treated for them. Some people with STIs often have no symptoms. Even if there are no symptoms present, STIs can be passed from one person to another. All STIs can be treated and some can even be cured. Some STDs cannot be cured, such as HIV/AIDS, HPV, and Herpes, but treatment can help with symptoms. If an STI is not treated, it can cause serious health problems. If you are sexually active, it is very important to get tested on a regular basis.

You can reduce your risk of STI/STDs by abstaining from vaginal, anal and oral sex until in a monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner. You can also reduce your risk by never sharing needles for injecting drugs (illegal or not).