Sexual Health

When you decide to have sex there are many things you should consider. Be informed so you can make the best decision for your health.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs):

• More than 1 in 5 Americans are presently infected with an STD
• STDs are contagious even when no symptoms exist
• STDs often cause chronic pain and permanent damage

STDs and Symptoms

• Chlamydia: Called “the silent disease.” Usually no symptoms. Some experience pain and/or vaginal discharge (women). Usually none. Some experience discharge from penis and burning with urination (men).
• Gonorrhea: If symptoms occur at all, they included pelvic pain, painful urination and pus-like discharge (women). Pus from urethra. Burning upon urination (men).
• Syphilis: First stage – often unnoticed. Second stage – changes of skin. Fever, enlarged lymph nodes (women). First Stage - swollen non-painful ulcers on external genitalia. Second stage - changes of skin. Fever, enlarged lymph nodes (men).
• HIV/AIDS: Fever, sore throat, fatigue, swollen lymph glands. Must be tested, as symptoms mimic many other diseases (women and men).
• Genital Herpes: Lesions appear at the site of infection – periodic eruptions of painful blister and ulcers anywhere on the body (women and men).
• HPV (Human Papiloma Virus): Often no visible symptoms. Some experience vulvar burning, itching and pain. Abnormal pap smears (women). Wart-like genital growths (men).
• Hepatitis B: Often none. Some experience yellowing of the skin (jaundice), tiredness, dark urine and grey-colored stool (women and men).
• PID (Pelvic Inflammatory Disease): See chlamydia & gonorrhea. Often symptoms are minor and mistaken for menstrual cramps. Chlamydia and gonorrhea may lead to PID (women only).

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and think you may have contracted a STD, please seek treatment immediately, stop sexual activity, and notify all sexual partners.

The only sure way to avoid pregnancy or infection with a sexually transmitted disease is to practice sexual abstinence while single. If you decide to marry, select a partner who is not infected with a STD and remain sexually faithful during marriage.

This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice.

Source: Centers for Disease Control, December 2007