STDs

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)

STDs can happen to anyone who is sexually active. An estimated 12 million people in the United States acquire an STD each year. Almost every STD is at epidemic level, especially among teenagers. You can get some STDs more than once, and more than one at a time. Most STDs are acquired through sexual contact. The best way to protect yourself from STDs is by not having sex. If you do have sex, use a latex or polyurethane condom with spermicidal foam, film, gel or cream containing nonoxynol-9 Plus your regular birth control method.

Symptoms of STDs are:

1. Blisters, sores, pimples, or swelling in the genital area.

2. Whitish, greenish or yellow discharge from the vagina or penis.

3. Itching or burning in the genital area which may including burning on urination.

4. Discharge with a bad odor from the vagina or penis.

It's very important to follow up on any symptoms you may have. If STDs are untreated, there are long term consequences including sterility. If you suspect you have been exposed to a STD, it is important that you seek treatment quickly. Some STDs have little or no symptoms so it is important that you follow the advice of your health care provider. Treatment for STDs is available at Collier County Health Department (239)252-8200, Gulfshore Medical Group (239)732-2580, Planned Parenthood (239)262-8923 or your health care provider.