Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) is a condition that is caused by infections and viruses that can be spread during unprotected intercourse. Many people neglect proper protection against STDs and this leads to their spread. That’s why STDs are extremely common. In this article, we have gathered seven important facts about STDs you should be aware of.
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Condoms are the only effective option against most STDs
If you want to protect yourself from most STDs, it is essential to use condoms during sex. Many infections and viruses can be transmitted during sex even if you use the withdrawal method of pregnancy prevention. You should also know that both female and male condoms can be used to prevent pregnancy and STDs transmission.
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STDs can develop asymptomatically
Even though STDs usually cause a lot of unpleasant symptoms, some people with STDs may not have any signs and don’t even know that they are infected. As a result, they can unconsciously infect their partners. You should also understand that many people try to hide their conditions and wouldn’t tell you about their symptoms. That’s why it is important to use condoms during sex.
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Some STDs can’t be cured
Most sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be successfully treated with the help of antibiotics. But some viruses like herpes and human papillomavirus can’t be cured. Both these viruses can develop asymptomatically or cause mild symptoms. You should also know that human papillomavirus is deemed the most common cause of cervical cancer.
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Hormonal contraception doesn’t prevent the spread of STDs
Some people think that all types of contraception can save them from both pregnancy and STDs. But the reality is that hormonal contraception can’t prevent the infection with STDs. The main principle of hormonal contraception is to suppress ovulation. If you take birth control or use another type of hormonal contraception, you still need to use condoms to prevent the spread of STDs.
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You can get STDs again
There is a common misbelief that if you have had STDs and was successfully treated, you can’t get them again. Unfortunately, you can easily get STDs from an infected person during unprotected sex. Additionally, it is important to undergo treatment for STDs together with your partner or partners since you can easily become reinfected right after treatment.
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Some STDs can be transmitted during skin-to-skin contact
It is essential to know that human papillomavirus and herpes can be transmitted not only through intercourse but also during skin-to-skin contact. This means that you can get them even during kissing or petting. Additionally, these viruses can be spread during sex if the condom doesn’t cover the affected area. Unfortunately, the only effective way to prevent the transmission of these viruses is sexual abstinence.
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STDs can lead to severe complications
If left untreated, some STIs can contribute to the development of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women. This condition can cause serious symptoms and complications. The most common symptoms of pelvic inflammatory disease are fever, abnormal vaginal discharge, spotting, burning sensations during urination, chronic pelvic pain, and pain during sex. You should also know that without timely and proper treatment, PID can cause adhesions and scars that can cause fertility issues.
The bottom line
It is important to understand that you are the only person who is responsible for your health. That why it is not worth practicing unprotected sex if you are not going to get pregnant. If your partner doesn’t respect you and your desire to stay healthy, it is better to consider such relationships. Otherwise, you may deal with the consequences of STDs and other problems on your own.
