What is a Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD)?

A Sexually Transmitted Disease or STD is an infectious disease that you can give or receive by having sex. You can get an STD through vaginal sex, anal sex or oral sex. STD’s are the second most common infection in the United States. More than a million people a year get an STD.

STD FAQs

If I only have one partner, I don’t have anything to worry about, right?

If you are having sex you can get an STD. You may be at less risk by having one sexual partner, but keep in mind, you may not be aware of other partners your partner has been with in the past or currently with in the present.  When you have sex with someone, it’s as if you’re having sex with everyone he or she has had sex with.

What are the most common STDs?

Chlamydia is the most common STD. Females may not have any symptoms, but if Chlamydia is not treated, it can cause other infections such as Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). Chlamydia can also result in problems with fertility later in life and can cause severe tubal damage and infertility. Chlamydia is curable, but all partners must be treated.

Herpes is caused by a virus.  Genital herpes may cause painful burning sores on your vagina or anus. There is not a cure for Herpes but there is medication that can prevent outbreaks and help keep you more comfortable during an outbreak.

Genital warts may appear as bumpy growths on your vagina or anus. Genital warts are caused by the human papillomavirus or HPV. Many sexually active people will get HPV at some point in their lives. The biggest concern for women is that some types of HPV cause cancer of the cervix. Regular pap smears are important to detect HPV and cervical cancer.