Notice of Privacy Practices:

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD's)

STDs: Everyone's Problem

STDs. It may be a new term to you. It stands for Sexually Transmitted Diseases, and if you have one, you're not alone. Over 12 million people from all walks of life -- from students to executives -- get STDs every year. You may be embarrassed or worried or wonder: "What now?" If so, you should know that most STDs can be treated, others can be controlled, and all can be prevented. You're the key. By learning what to expect, you can help make treatment effective and prevention possible.

Recognize Symptoms

How do you know if you have an STD? One clue is physical symptoms -- your body's way of telling you something is wrong. Be alert to changes in your body. When something feels or looks different, seek medical care right away. Even if it isn't an STD, you may have another problem that requires professional treatment.

Burning:
especially with urination, may be an STD or a bladder infection. In either case, only a doctor can diagnose and treat the problem.

Discharge:
a white or clear, often thick, discharge from the penis or vagina may be a sign of gonorreha, chlamydia, or other STDs. A discharge may appear in the rectum if infected during anal sex.

Lumps and Bumps:
lumps, bumps, and other skin changes near the genitals may be venereal warts, herpes, or syphilis.

Sores:
painful or itchy sores on the or near the sex organs may be herpes; painless sores may be syphilis.

Itching:
itching in and around sex organs may be herpes, scabies, or crabs.

No Symptoms:
Some symptoms take months, even years, to develop, especially in women. If you suspect you have been exposed to an STD, seek medical care.

For more information call the STD National Hotline: 1-800-227-8922

Myths and Facts About Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Myth:
You always know when you have an STD.

Fact:
Some STDs don't show symptoms until they're serious. If sexually active, get regular checkups.

Myth:
You can get AIDS by donating blood.

Fact:
You can't. Blood banks use sterile, disposable needles, new tests, and other precautions.

Myth:
STDs are minor diseases.

Fact:
Untreated STDs can become major problems, causing sterility, damage to unborn children, even death.

Myth:
You can treat STDs yourself.

Fact:
Home remedies don't work and often are dangerous.

Myth:
If symptoms go away on their own, you're cured.

Fact:
Symptoms may come and go, but the disease stays and, unless treated, often get worse.

Myth:
You can get STDs from toilet seats, door knobs, or hot tubs.

Fact:
STDs are almost always sexually spread. Take precautions to reduce risk.