What is an STD?

STD is the original term for sexually transmitted diseases. This term is being replaced with STI or sexually transmitted infections. Referring to the consequences of a sexually transmitted infection as an infection instead of a disease is believed more precisely to define one’s condition. It is not necessary for one that has contracted an ailment to believe they are diseased (forever) but merely infected; however, some STD s/STIs are not curable.   The infections are a result of pathogens known as viruses, bacteria, fungi and protozoa. The resulting conditions that develop are generally unpleasant, unwanted and the result from a bug. The term sexually transmitted refers to how the bugs are transmitted from person to person. Transmission of an infection happens when a sexual relationship exists between two people. One person must be infected. When the uninfected person of the two comes into contact between infected fluids or body parts, transmission occurs; however, infection can also occur without a sexual relationship. When an infected, pregnant mother with contaminated fluids from her vagina gives birth to a newborn, the passing of the newborn through the infected vagina can cause transmission of the STI/STD to the newborn.

Everyone is at risk of an STD/STI when engaging in sexual practices. Having knowledge of STDs/STI will lead to prevention. In addition, worries can be alleviated by educating yourself about sexually transmitted infections/diseases. It is important that each individual take the time to learn about STI/STDs to combat the spreading of these infections/diseases. If you think you are infected don’t hesitate in reacting. Get tested confidentially, conveniently and rapidly today. See STD testing for more information or click on one of the STD test Express Ads on this webpage. Please realize,without quick treatment of an STD/STI one becomes susceptible to permanent injury and poses a greater risk for infection from HIV. Precisely, untreated STIs/STDs can cause infertility, impotency, mental retardation and death!

One doesn’t need to look far to find an infected individual. Perhaps a friend or yours or previous friend has become infected. STDs/STIs are more common than you think. Most people keep their infection to themselves due to the potential for social stigma. How do you think your friends would react if they knew you had an incurable sexually transmitted infection? No doubt someone will think that you were ill-responsible with your health. There are many possibilities for infection. There are at least 60 different kinds of sexually transmitted infections. The most likely contracted infections are syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, HIV, hepatitis, genital warts (HPV), chancroid, public lice or scabies and trichomoniasis (also known as trich). Don’t get infected and do become educated and aware.

Some populations are at greater risk than others for contraction. College students in particular are at a higher risk of infection. Genital warts, known as human papillomavirus is the most commonly contracted infection between college students. Other likely infection to encounter on campus is chlamydia followed by genital herpes or HSV-2.

Infections occur and succeed amongst the most unprepared. Never should one believe they are too lucky or immune to catch an infection. No one is invincible. It takes one careless sexual encounter to contract an infection that will remain with you until death. It is everyone’s interest and responsibility to be educated and on watch all hours of the day.

People that enjoy casual sex or are engaging with multiple sexual partners are vulnerable. Statistics have proven that a male with between two and four sexual partners during his lifetime has a 3% chance of infection. A 28% contraction possibilities exists for men with more than 20 partners. The rate of infection is greater for women. Woman with few partners have a 5% chance of infection. Women with high numbers of partners have a 35% chance of infection. Increased infection rate occurs for those under age 25 or who began sexual activity at an early age. Alcohol, illicit drugs and prostitution greatly lead to infections. If you have already been exposed to an infection, you’re likely to see another. Some communities and area codes have higher contraction rates than others. What if you were living amongst people with the highest rates of infections? Wouldn’t you want to know this? Make sure to do your homework by finding out about your localities infection rates.

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