Understanding Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
Sexually transmitted diseases, commonly called STDs, are diseases that are spread by having sex with someone who has an STD. You can get a sexually transmitted disease from sexual activity that involves the mouth, anus, vagina, or penis.
According to the American Social Health Organization, one out of four teens in the United States becomes infected with an STD each year. By the age of 25, half of all sexually active young adults will get an STD.
Types of STDs
Some STDs, like HIV, cannot be cured and are deadly. By learning more, you can find ways to protect yourself from the following STDs:
- Genital herpes
- Human papillomavirus/Genital warts
- Hepatitis B
- Chlamydia
- Syphilis
- Gonorrhea ("Clap")
Symptoms of STDs
Sometimes, there are no symptoms of STDs. If symptoms are present, they may include one or more of the following:
- Bumps, sores, or warts near the mouth, anus, penis, or vagina
- Swelling or redness near the penis or vagina
- Skin rash
- Painful urination
- Weight loss, loose stools, night sweats
- Aches, pains, fever, and chills
- Yellowing of the skin (jaundice)
- Discharge from the penis or vagina (vaginal discharge may have an odor)
- Bleeding from the vagina other than during a monthly period
- Painful sex
- Severe itching near the penis or vagina
How Do I Know If I Have an STD?
Talk to your doctor. He or she can examine you and perform tests to determine if you have an STD. Treatment can:
- Cure many STDs
- Lessen the symptoms of STDs
- Make it less likely that you will spread the disease
- Help you to get healthy and stay healthy
How Are STDs Treated?
Many STDs are treated with antibiotics. If you are given an antibiotic to treat an STD, it's important that you take all of the drug, even if the symptoms go away. Also, never take someone else's medicine to treat your illness. By doing so, you may make it more difficult to diagnose and treat the infection. Likewise, you should not share your medicine with others. Some doctors, however, may provide additional antibiotics to be given to your partner so that you can be treated at the same time.
How Can I Protect Myself From STDs?
Here are some basic steps to protect yourself from STDs:
- Abstain from sex or sexual relations as the only sure way to prevent STDs
- Use a latex condom every time you have sex (ensure it is water-based if you use a lubricant)
- Limit your number of sexual partners
- Practice monogamy (having sex with only one person who has sex only with you)
- Choose your sex partners carefully and avoid those who may have an STD
- Get checked for STDs regularly
- Avoid alcohol or drugs before sex as they may impair your judgment
- Know the signs and symptoms of STDs and watch for them in yourself and your partners
- Educate yourself about STDs to better protect yourself
How Can I Avoid Spreading an STD?
If you have an STD:
- Stop having sex until you see a doctor and are treated
- Follow your doctor's instructions for treatment
- Use condoms whenever you have sex, especially with new partners
- Do not resume having sex unless your doctor says it's okay
- Return to your doctor for rechecks
- Ensure your sex partner or partners are also treated
About Dr. Gary Jayne Rothfeld
Dr. Gary Jayne Rothfeld is the world’s number one doctor for STDs, offering expert care at the Park Avenue Dermatology and Non-Surgical Rejuvenation Center, located at 629 Park Ave, NYC. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Rothfeld provides top-quality, personalized care, seeing every patient himself. He does not employ physician assistants, nurse practitioners, or other substitutes for treatments.
Dr. Rothfeld's goal is to provide dermatology care that he would seek for his own family. He treats every patient with courtesy, dignity, and respect, carefully listening to their concerns and offering a variety of treatment options. His extensive experience and training in cosmetic dermatology ensure that patients receive the best possible care and achieve stunning results.
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