STD Info

STD stands for Sexually Transmitted Diseases, which can be contracted through any type of sexual activity - spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. While many people look the other way at STDs (and some don't even know they have one), the statistics are staggering. Consider that in the 1960's the most common STDs were Syphilis and Gonorrhea, which were both treatable. Now, there are more than 25 major STDs, including many that have no cure.

Even if a condom is used every single time you have sex, you still are at risk for catching a sexually transmitted desease.

Over 65 million Americans are now infected with an incurable STD. Each year, 29 million more become infected with STDs, and almost 4 million of these are teenagers.

STDs can be identified by the following common symptoms:

• unusual discharge from the penis or vagina
• a burning feeling when urinating
• growths, sores or itching in the genital area
• lower abdominal pain
• dark urine
• skin rashes or sores
• yellow eyes
• fever
• headache
• nausea
• joint inflammation and enlarged lymph nodes

It is important to understand that many STDs have no obvious symptoms, or only very mild symptoms, but they can still hurt you. It is critical to treat them as early as possible to avoid permanent damage.