List of STDs
STD Overview
With the growing incidence of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) worldwide, most people have heard of at least some STDs. At the same time, however, most people have limited knowledge about what STDs actually are, how they are transmitted, how to detect or diagnose STDs, how to prevent STDs, and whether or not STDs can be treated or cured. Moreover, while some STDs are well known, there are many less commonly known STDs that are infecting individuals and possibly causing serious harm if left untreated.
It is important that all sexually active individuals be aware of the various STDs they need to be wary of, learn what steps they can take to avoid or prevent STDS, know how to recognize STD symptoms, and be careful to select a partner who is clean of infection.
Types of STDs
There are many types of sexually transmitted diseases, also known as venereal diseases or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). What most STDs have in common is that they are spread through contact with infected body fluids such as blood, vaginal fluids, or semen during oral, vaginal or anal sex. STDs can also be contracted from mucous membranes such as mouth sores or open cuts and wounds or from shared drug paraphernalia such as needles.
Although many STDS are asymptomatic (symptom free), they all have the potential to cause serious complications if left undiagnosed and untreated. While some types of STDs can be treated successfully with antibiotics, not all types of STDs can be cured, which means the infection can come back at a later time. Therefore, all individuals who are sexually active are urged to be tested for STDs on a regular basis and encouraged to make sure their partners do the same.
List of STDs
STD prevention begins with awareness. The following is only a partial list of some well-known and some less commonly known STDs that couples should be aware of and become informed about:
Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Herpes, Syphilis, HIV/AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome), Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), Pubic Lice ("Crabs"), Genital Warts, Hepatitis B, Vaginitis, Scabies, Trichomoniasis, Granuloma Iguinale, Chancroid, Molluscum Contagiosum, Lymphogranuloma Venereum, Nongonococcal Urethritis.
Preventing STDs
To prevent STDs, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and health practitioners advocate the use of condoms during all sexual activities and warn against unprotected penetration and the sharing of intravenous needles. Besides being routinely screened for STDs, men and women are advised to question any new or prospective sexual partners about their sexual history and disease status and be sure that they are tested regularly as well. Note that couples should be tested even if they have no apparent symptoms of infection, and the safest sex policy is to be involved in a long-term, mutually monogamous sexual relationship.
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