Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are no fun at all and can often go undetected for months or even years. One of the most common STDs in the United States is Chlamydia or Chlamydia trachomatis. Chlamydia can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infections in the genital area, and reproductive problems. Chlamydia can be difficult to diagnose and is often misdiagnosed as a yeast infection when Chlamydia actually causes the symptoms. The good news is that there are a number of things that you can do to protect yourself from STDs.
Ignorance is not bliss when it comes to sexually transmitted diseases. More than 26 million people in the United States—almost 1 in 6 adults—have an STD, according to the STD Resource Center. The good news is that for most people an STD is curable, and all it takes is a visit to your doctor, who can diagnose the condition and provide you with a suitable treatment plan.
Use condoms during intercourse
Condoms have long been used as contraception but are now also being recommended as one of the most effective tools in preventing sex-related diseases, such as HIV and syphilis. It is estimated that about 1.4 million new cases of syphilis and 1.2 million new cases of HIV occur in the U.S. every year. Sexual contact without protection has been identified as the leading cause of new HIV infections and new syphilis infections in the United States.
Take the time to wash yourself before and after sex
Congratulations on being sexually active. You are also probably worried about whether you or your partner have contracted a sexually transmitted infection (STI) such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, or HIV. The good news is that you can reduce the risk of transmission when you have a mutually monogamous relationship with someone you trust.
The sexual acts performed between consenting adults are protected under both federal and state laws. These acts may include oral sex, anal sex, vaginal sex, and sexual penetration. However, if your partner has any of these sexually transmitted infections (STIs), your unprotected sexual acts could also be transmitted.
Get tested for STDS regularly.
Many people put their health on the back burner, but this can be dangerous. Make sure you keep yourself healthy by regularly visiting your doctor and getting tested for STDs. You will not be able to catch every disease out there, but there is a chance you could be at risk for certain illnesses.
The STD test is something every sexually active adult should undergo at least once a year. STD tests help identify infections, especially if you suspect you may be at risk. This then allows you to access treatment as early as possible, which allows for the best outcome. Your sexual partner can also undergo STD testing. Annual testing for both partners is recommended to ensure you and your partner remain as healthy as possible.
Use your own underwear or towels.
Each year, an estimated 2.7 million Americans are diagnosed with an STD. And STD cases are on the rise, with 1 in 20 young people between the ages of 13 and 24 reporting an STD diagnosis. Though STDs are much more common than you might think, it is not too late to stay safe. Use your own underwear or towels to minimize the spreading of disease and to keep yourself safe from STDs.
An STD can be scary, and with new cases of HIV and chlamydia on the rise, protecting yourself from contracting it leads to peace of mind. New cases of HIV and chlamydia are on the rise, and STDs are not just limited to sex. The CDC reports that (in 2016), one in four women and one in five men in the United States have been diagnosed with an STD. The best case scenario is not to be a part of that statistic.
