What is a sexually transmitted disease (STD)?
It’s an infection passed on during sexual activity, close genital contact, or occasionally the mixing of bodily fluids with one infected (as in deep french kissing or oral sex).
Can a condom prevent an STD?
Even when a condom is used and worn properly in every way, there’s a 17% failure rate as far as pregnancy is concerned. When looking at condoms and STDs, there are two things to keep in mind:
- Some STDs are passed skin to skin in the genital area, such as Genital Herpes. A condom does not protect at all in these cases.
- HIV can be contracted with a condom due to the fact that the HIV virus can be smaller than the microscopic holes left in the criss-cross fibers of the latex in the condom.
Can I be cured from an STD?
Some are curable with antibiotics, while some STDs are viruses and are not curable but can be treated during your lifetime. Presently AIDS is the only STD fatal to those infected. For more information, see our STD chart.
How can I know if I have an STD?
In many cases, the only way to know if you do have an STD is to be tested. Many STDs have no symptoms until much damage has been done. For more information, see our STD chart.
How can I protect myself from STDs?
STDs are most often spread through sexual activity but can also be contracted through genital contact without intercourse. The best way to protect yourself from STDs is to save sex until marriage and to draw the line before any type of genital contact.
What should I do if I think I have an STD?
You need to see your doctor for treatment immediately. You must stop all sexual activity. You need to notify your sexual partners.
