Everybody is sexual and sexuality is an important aspect of your life. But it is important to make safe decisions as to how you express your sexuality. Indulging in sex is not bad- in fact it can be really good! But you will experience bad things, if you indulge in unsafe sex, as it can result in getting sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). In the following pages, you will get a better idea on sexually transmitted diseases, its types, the symptoms included, STD treatments and protection from STDs.
Information on Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Sexually Transmitted Diseases or STDs are spread during an sexual activity. It is spread during oral, vaginal or anal sex. Some STDs like Hepatitis B and HIV can also spread by contact with infected blood. You do not contract STDs by digital sex (fingering); however, uncut nails or unclean hands could lead to genital problems. STD germs thrive in warm, moist regions. Therefore, they infect the sexual organs (penis, testes, vagina and vulva), the rectum and the mouth.
Types of STDs
There are several types of STDs and depending on the kind of infection they are classified as follows:
Bacterial- Gonorrhea
- Vaginitis
- Syphilis
- Chlamydia
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
- Genital Warts
- Herpes
- HIV/AIDS
- Hepatitis B
- Hepatitis C
- Trichomonas
Symptoms of STDs
The biggest problem with STDs is that many individuals, especially women do not have any symptoms. And this, if left untreated can lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) and infertility. If you are sexually active or you think you have been exposed to this disease, then it is mandatory to regularly check for STDs. Symptoms to watch for:
In men-- Discharge or drip (yellowish and thick or white and watery) from the penis.
- Blisters or bumps on or near the penis, testicles or mouth.
- Burning and itching in and around your vagina.
- Experiencing pain while having sex or bleeding after sex.
How to treat if you have an STD
Sexually transmitted diseases can be divided into 3 types: Bacterial, viral and parasitic.
- Parasitic and bacterial infections can be cured
- Viral infections can be treated but it is difficult to cure.
How can I protect myself ?
One of the best way to protect yourself from sexually transmitted diseases is by not having sex. Or have sex with only one uninfected partner who only performs sex with you as this is considerably safe. Few other things you can do in order to protect yourself:
- Always use a latex condom every time you have vaginal, oral or anal sex. Condoms can offer a lot of protection from STDs.
- In addition to that, you should use birth control jelly, creams or foam as these can kill STD germs.