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Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Prevention

General Information

A sexually transmitted disease is an infection that is transmitted through sexual intercourse (vaginal, anal, oral). It is also sometimes referred to as a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
Examples of STDs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes, HIV, pubic lice, and trichomonas and hepatitis.
Some STDs can be cured with antibiotics (e.g., gonorrhea, chlamydia).
Some STDs cannot cured, but the symptoms can be reduced (e.g., herpes, HIV) by taking prescription medications.
Vaccines are available to prevent infection with Hepatitis A and B.

Transmission

Most STDs are transmitted by exchange of body fluids (e.g., semen, vaginal secretions or blood) during oral, anal, or vaginal sex.
Also can occur following direct contact with any sores/lesions during sex.
A latex condom acts as barrier and is effective at preventing STDs.

Abstinence & Other "Safe" Sexual Activities

There are only two 100% effective means of avoiding STDs:
- Abstaining from sexual intercourse and from oral sex.
- A truly monogamous (one sexual partner only) and longstanding relationship between two uninfected partners.
Sexual behaviors that are considered safe (and do not usually transmit STDs) include holding hands, hugging, touching and kissing (as long as there are no sores on the lips or in the mouth).
Touching semen during mutual masturbation generally is safe.
Both partners should be tested for STDs (including HIV) before initiating sexual relations.
Condoms should be used for each act of sexual intercourse when the infection status of your partner is unknown.
Condoms are more effective in preventing STDs passed by body fluids (such as trichomonas, chlyamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV) than in preventing those STDs transmitted by skin contact (such as herpes, HPV and syphilis).

Behaviors That Do Not Prevent STDs

Douching the vagina or showering after sex does not prevent STDs.
Withdrawal (when a man pulls his penis out before he ejaculates) is not a way to prevent STDs or pregnancy.
Having a STD once does not prevent you from getting it again.
Using the birth control pill, birth control patch, an IUD (IntraUterine Device), Nuvaring or Depoprovera shots won't prevent you from getting a STD. You still need to protect yourself with condoms.