Sexually Transmitted Diseases - What You Should Know

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are infections which pass to another person through unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex, by genital contact and sharing sex toys. These infections can range in severity and can become threatening if not treated in time.

Most sexually transmitted infections can be treated and it is usually best if treatment is started as soon as possible.

Some infections, such as HIV, genital warts and genital herpes, never leave the body but there are drugs available that can reduce the symptoms. Drugs can also help prevent or delay the development of complications in HIV.

If left untreated, many sexually transmitted infections can be painful or uncomfortable, and can permanently damage your health and fertility, and can be passed on to someone else.

To reduce the risk of contracting an STD, you should practice safe sex by using condoms correctly every time you have sex. You don’t need to have lots of sexual partners to get an infection.

Have a look at our STD articles on prevention and treatment to learn more about the risks involved with STDs.