Sexually Transmitted Diseases

This term is usually used to refer to a condition passed from one person to another through sexual contact. You can also contract a sexually transmitted disease by having an unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who already has been contracted with the disease.  

STDs may also be transmitted through the sharing of needles or breastfeeding. Symptoms of STDs  

• Men feel pain or discomfort during sex or urination; sores, bumps, or rashes on or around the penis, testicles, anus, buttocks, thighs, or the mouth; unusual discharge or bleeding from the penis; or swollen testicles.  
• Women, symptoms might include pain or discomfort during urination; sores, bumps, or rashes on or around the vagina, anus, buttocks, thighs or the mouth; unusual discharge or bleeding from the vagina or unusual itching around the vagina.  

There are many ways to prevent the contraction of an STD. The only foolproof way to avoid getting an STD is to avoid sexual contact. However, condoms provide effective prevention against many STDs.  

For optimal protection, it is very important to use condoms during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Wearing condoms during sexual encounters is also an effective way to prevent pregnancy.