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Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are also called venereal diseases. You could get STDs by having vaginal, oral, or anal sex with someone who already has an STD. So STDs affect men and women of all races, rich and poor. However, women, young people and people of color are more likely to get an STD. STDs are caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites. Some STDs can be cured, but others can't.
The only way to prevent STDs is not to have sex. If you do decide to have sex, there are a few things you can do to lower your chances of getting an STD:
• Have sex with only one partner, who does not have an STD; the more sexual partners you have, the more likely you are to get an STD
• Always use a condom and use a new one every time you have sex
• Get regular checkups for STDs, even if you don't have any symptoms
• Use a clean needle if injecting intravenous drugs
If you get an STD, you may not feel sick at all. If diagnosed and treated early, most STDs get better and go away. If you have an STD:
• Get treated as soon as possible to lower the risk of passing it on to others
• Tell all your recent sexual partners and urge them to get tested
• When your doctor prescribes medication, follow your doctor's instructions
• Do not have sex while being treated for an STD
For more information, click here:
Sexually transmitted diseases (pdf)
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