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Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Preventing STDs
The best way to prevent STDs is not to have sexual intercourse. If you decide to be sexually active, there are things that you can do to reduce your risk of developing a STD.
- Be direct about asking a new sex partner whether they have a STD, been exposed to one, or have any unexplained physical symptoms. Learn the physical signs of STDs and inspect a sex partner’s body, especially the genital area, for sores, rashes or discharges. Don’t have sex if your partner has signs or symptoms of STDs; and use a condom – correctly -- during sexual intercourse. Diaphragms may also help reduce the risk of STD transmission. Scientists are still evaluating the usefulness of spermicides in preventing STDs to see whether they kill STD organisms.
- If sexually active with more than one long-term partner, have regular checkups for STDs even in the absence of symptoms, and learn the common symptoms of STDs and seek help immediately if any symptoms develop, however mild.
- Anyone diagnosed with an STD should notify all recent sex partners and urge them to get a checkup, follow the doctor’s orders, complete the full course of medication prescribed, and have a follow-up test to be sure the infection has been cured. In addition, you must avoid all sexual activity while being treated for an STD.
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