 |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
|||
How STD's are Spread AdviceSexually Transmitted Diseases affect people of all genders, races, and social classes. Unfortunately, many people continue to carry around misconceptions about how these diseases are spread. Without proper knowledge, people often put themselves at unknown risk of contracting an infection. Most sexually transmitted diseases are spread through direct sexual contact with someone who already has an infection. However, some infections may be spread in other ways. It is important that people understand the additional ways that STDs are spread to they can protect themselves completely. It is also important to understand how they are not spread to alleviate any unnecessary fears. Certain sexually transmitted diseases can be contracted from close body contact without full-blown sexual contact. These include but are not limited to pubic lice and scabies. These infections can also be spread from contact with clothing, towels, or sheets that have been used by an infected person. Some people incorrectly believe that any transmission of an STD through sexual contact must occur through sexual intercourse. In some cases, infection can be transmitted through unprotected oral sex with an infected male or female. Sexually transmitted diseases are spread through semen and vaginal fluids. If one partner is infected, and the other partner has an open sore in the mouth, the infection can be spread through genital fluids that can enter the wound. A few instances of STD transmission have been reported from using sex toys. This occurs when proper care is not used to clean toys if used and shared when one partner is infected. This risk is very low; however, it is imperative that people clean and take all precautions to avoid any risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease. Another common way of contracting a sexually transmitted disease is through the sharing of infected needles. This often happens if needles are shared for drug usage. People should abstain from any situation that would put them at risk for transmission of an STD. Infected needles can also be found in ear piercing stations or tattoo parlors if these institutions do not follow the guidelines for proper hygiene. Individuals should always be careful in choosing businesses for piercing or tattoos. While there are several ways to contract an STD, people often incorrectly believe they can catch them in other ways. Many people believe there is a risk when giving blood, swimming in a pool used by an infected person, sitting on toilet seats, or touching objects used by an infected person. However, none of these are realistic risks. There is not a great enough sample of the virus in any of these places to pose a threat. Most viruses quickly die when exposed to air. In addition, there would have to be immense contact with bodily fluids to actually be a risk of catching the disease. People simply need to know the facts to be protected against STDs. People with a sexually transmitted disease do not have to be avoided. People just need to avoid certain situations and be cautious. |
|||
| STD Information | Herpes | Genital Warts | HPV | Syphilis | Chlamydia | Gonorrhea | Molluscum Contagiosum | Vaginitis | Birth Control | |||