Sexually Transmitted Disease and Infection

The number of people infected with sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) also known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continues to increase. Each year 15 million new people are infected with curable STDs and 340 million are infected worldwide. Many sexually transmitted diseases can be treated or cured by your doctor, but unfortunately many cannot be cured. If you notice any vaginal itching, burning, unusual discharge, blisters, or pain, you should visit your doctor right away.

STD Risk Factors

Condom failure

Condoms made of latex or polyurethane can help reduce the chances of getting most STDs, but condoms can fail; two to six percent of condoms will fall off or break during intercourse. A condom can break even if you use it perfectly. A condom does not protect against all STDs, such as human papillomavirus (HPV).

Spermicides

Spermicides containing nonoxynol-9 were believed to prevent HIV infection, but now it’s known that spermicide use can increase your risk because the chemical irritates the vagina, making infection more likely. Therefore spermicides are not recommended for HIV prevention any longer. Spermicides are typically used with condoms, sponges, diaphragms, and cervical caps.

Hormonal birth control

Birth control methods, such as Depo-Provera and oral contraceptives, can actually increase your chances of contracting an STD from an infected partner. Depo-provera suppresses the immune system, and hormonal methods can make the reproductive tract more vulnerable to viral and bacterial infections.

Multiple sex partners

Sexual intimacy can put you at risk. In addition to intercourse, many other activities, such as oral and anal sex, can result in an STD. Your friends might think oral sex is no big deal because “it’s not really sex.” But don’t kid yourself. It is sex, and it’s not safe. While you can’t get pregnant from oral sex, you can get a sexually transmitted disease or infection, which have become an epidemic in the US. Each year more than 15 million Americans get infected with STDs and the majority of them are under the age of 25. You don’t want to be one of them.