While it is normal and healthy for people to enjoy active sex lives, it is important to
realize that there are more than 30 sexually transmitted diseases that have the potential
to turn sexual contact into an unpleasant, and in some cases deadly, activity. Many
people, when they think of STDs, think of AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), a
presently incurable disease, first identified in 1981. Currently there is no medical
treatment to prevent the spread of the AIDS virus. There are effective treatments for
reducing the severity of some AIDS symptoms and for preventing or treating the
opportunistic infections which occur when the body's normal immune system is compromised
as a result of the AIDS virus.
Some of the other STDs that effect millions of people around the world each year
include chancroid, chlamydia, genital pediculosis, gonorrhea, hepatitis B, herpes,
syphilis, trichomoniasis, and venereal warts. Although contracting one of these diseases
is not as life threatening as contracting AIDS, the impact they can have on your
lifestyle, relationships, and psychological well-being is enormous.
All STDs are contracted by having sexual contact with someone, who in many cases may be
unaware that they are carrying a sexually transmittable disease. Practicing safe sex is
the single most important step anyone can take to prevent contracting or spreading STDs.
However, there are no 'safe sex' methods that are 100 percent effective. The only 100
percent 'safe sex' method is sexual abstinence! 'Safer sex' methods can, however, prevent
or lower the risk of contracting an STD infection, including AIDS. These methods include
masturbation of yourself or your partner without exchanging semen or vaginal fluids.
Touching and kissing of nipples, back, feet, hands, legs, face and ears can be a safe and
enjoyable intimate experience. Any vaginal or rectal intercourse should occur only with
the use of a latex condom. Safer oral sex should include the use of a condom, or dental
dam. Fingering of the penis, vagina, or anus is safest from risk of STDs when using a
condom, dam, or finger cot.
With the exception of AIDS and Hepatitis B, STDs can usually be treated easily if
diagnosed early. Therefore, it is imperative that anyone who thinks they may have been
exposed to someone with an STD contact a health professional immediately for diagnosis and
treatment. Women could see their gynecologist and men their urologist or their primary
care physician or nurse practitioner. Dermatologists are also adept at identifying and
treating STDs, since many of the symptoms include skin lesions, rashes, and warts. Women
and men also have the option of going to the local Planned Parenthood clinic for
confidential treatment of STDs.