Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are also known as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). These are infections which are passed though sexual contact. Disease is transmitted though contact with the genitals, skin, mouth, rectum, or associated body fluids. These infections come from a wide range of organisms, including both viruses and bacteria. Many of them are easily treated, but some have no cure. Some cause no permanent damage if caught and treated early, but some can lead to infertility and even death. Young adults are disproportionately affected. Nearly half of all new STIs in the US occur in people ages 15-24. It is an enormous problem.
About 1 in 4 sexually active females has an STI.
Risk factors:
being sexually active
multiple partners for self or partner
use of drugs or alcohol
Preventing STIs
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists states the following :
The only sure way to prevent STDs is to abstain from sex or to practice lifetime mutual monogamy (in which both partners have only had sex with each other and no one else). (2)
Reducing Risk
1. Immunize where possible. Currently we have vaccinations for Hepatitis B and Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).
2. Choose sexual partners very carefully after getting to know them well. Avoid those with high risk factors. Keep the total number of partners as low as possible.
3. Do not mix drugs or alcohol with potentially sexual encounters.
4. Use a latex condom.
5. Avoid sex practices such as anal sex, that produce tears or abrasions.
6. Have a visit with the doctor
a. if you or your partner have symptoms of an STI
b. if you change partners
c. Screen for STI according to CDC recommendations
It is important to note that many of these infections have no symptoms when they are initially acquired or even later.
It is also important to note that if a person has acquired an STI very recently, testing may not reveal it.
A patient may not even know that he or she has an STI , and may unknowingly pass it on to others.
Links
to Definitive Information
on Sexually Transmitted Infections
from the CDC
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease or PID
CDC STI screening protocols
" ... She also told me, yes she told me you'll never know what you'll catch..."
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