STD 101

By Mishaun Taylor

We’ve all heard about and learned to fear STDs, but what are they exactly? STD stands for “sexually transmitted diseases.” Basically, these are infections that you contract by having unprotected sex with someone else who already has the infection.

These diseases are generally caused by either a virus or bacteria. Viruses are known to trigger the following conditions: HIV, herpes, hepatitis B, and the Human Papilloma Virus (also called HPV, for short). Diseases caused by bacteria include Syphilis, Chlamydia, and Gonorrhea.

Most often, STDs are transmitted from person to person during intercourse, but they can also be passed through other forms of sex, including oral and anal sex. If you, like many people, think that performing unprotected oral sex on your partner is a “safer” way to have sex, you’re wrong! 

Remember, the only 100% safe sex is abstinence. However, condoms can be very effective in preventing the spread of most sexually transmitted diseases.

If you have ever had unprotected sex—whether genital-to-genital, oral, or anal—there is the possibility that you could have an STD. Because the risk of contracting an STD increases every time you have sex without a condom, people who have had many sex partners are at a greater risk. Likewise, if your sex partner has had many lovers, both you and your partner are at a higher risk.

That’s why it’s so important to be aware of STDs and their symptoms. If you have any of the following symptoms, you should consult your doctor:

—In women, burning or itching around the vagina, or unusual discharge

—In men, discharge from the penis

—Painless red sores (called canker sores) on the genitals, anus, throat, or tongue

—A rash on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet

—Warts on or around the genital area

—For people who have oral sex, sore throats

—For people who have anal sex, pain in the anus

—Pain in the pelvis area during sex, or while urinating

—Weight loss, abnormal fatigue, unexplained infection, or night sweats

—Dark urine, loose stools

—Small blisters or scabs on the genitals

These are some of the most common symptoms of STDs, but if you are experiencing other abnormal symptoms and you feel that something is wrong, consult a doctor. He or she can help you figure out what’s wrong and get you on the road to feeling healthy again.

Remember, the only 100% safe sex is abstinence. However, condoms can be very effective in preventing the spread of most sexually transmitted diseases, so if you decide to have sex of any kind, ALWAYS use a condom. Washing your genitals with soap and water after sex can also help to get rid of any germs. 

Now that you know the symptoms, stay alert, and observe your partner for signs of an STD. Of course, the best thing to do before having sex with a new partner is to talk openly and honestly about your sexual histories and whether or not you’ve both been recently tested for STDs. You should never have sex with someone you believe is dishonest or who is unforthcoming about his or her background or sexual health. 

The best, safest kind of sex is protected sex with someone you love and trust!