Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) , are among the most common infectious diseases in the United States today. They affect more than 13 million men and women in this country each year.

The number of STD cases is rising because sexually active people today are more likely to have multiple sex partners during their lives which leads to a greater risk for developing STDs. Anyone can contract an STD. Men and women of all ages, backgrounds, and economic levels are at risk.

Many STDs initially cause no symptoms, particularly in women. However, even though you have an STD and no symptoms, you may still be able to pass the disease on to a sex partner. Doctors recommend periodic testing if you have more than one sex partner.

When diagnosed and treated early, most STDs can be treated effectively. However, some organisms, such as certain forms of gonorrhea, have become resistant to the drugs used to treat them and now require new types of antibiotics. The most serious STD with no known cure is AIDS.

The only way to prevent the transmission of STDs is to avoid behaviors that put you at risk, such as having sex of any kind - vaginal, oral or anal.

Understanding the basic facts about STDs — the ways in which they are spread, their common symptoms, and how they can be treated — is the first step toward prevention.

Read more on the types of STDs:

If you have questions about STDs, or would like to make an appointment call Women’s Clinic at 850-656-9177.