Sexually transmitted disease (STD)

A sexually transmitted disease is any disease that can be transmitted by sexual contact (including vaginal and anal intercourse and oral-genital contact) with an infected partner who may or may not have symptoms.

Symptoms

1. Increased watery or discolored discharge from penis or vagina.
2. Pink or reddish warts on or in the genitals.
3. Painful urination.
4. Painful, itchy sores around genitals.
5. Painless, reddish bump on genital, mouth, or anus.
6. Itching or soreness of penis or vagina.
7. Some men and most women have no noticeable symptoms.

Self-Treatment

1. None.

Protection

1. Communication--honesty between partners.
2. Condom when used properly can help to prevent the infection of STD's.
3. Spermicidal foam with Nonoxyl-9 does also help prevent contracting an STD.
4. Combination of the above 2 methods are even better.
5. Abstinence

Health Service Visit Recommended if:

1. You experience any of the above-listed symptoms.
2. If you suspect you may have contracted a sexually transmitted disease, or been exposed to an STD.

Common sexually transmitted diseases

1. Chlamydia
2. Gonorrhea
3. Trichomonas
4. Genital warts (human papilloma virus)
5. Syphilis
6. Genital herpes (remember oral herpes can be transmitted to the genital area by oral-genital contact).
7. HIV/AIDS
8. Hepatitis B