How does one develop Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)?

Make sure that you never have unprotected sex. Use condoms while having sex. Also limiting your sexual partners reduces the chances of getting an STD. Do not have sex with anyone who shows signs of STI (Sexually Transmitted Infections) like rashes, bumps or discharge from the genital areas. Ensure that you and your partner get tested for STI and say no to drugs.

A person can be living with STDs and might not know that he/she has the disease. He/she could be inadvertently transferring the infections to others. It is always safe to get tested for STD while having a general check-up. In most cases, a routine blood test and a urine test can be used to determine if a person has STD. The most common symptoms of STDs include frequent rashes, bumps, itching and discharge from the genital areas. Consult your doctor immediately if any of the above symptoms persist.

No. Though STDs spread primarily through body fluids, they can also be spread through skin contact and by using the same syringes during drugs and tattooing. In some cases, they can be spread when a person is in touch with the infected person or uses the same clothing, sheets, and towels. Since STDs can be spread by anal sex and oral sex, be careful when liaising with your partner.

STD symptoms aren t visible in every affected person. In some cases, the symptoms do not appear at all, even in the most advanced stages. Gonorrhea and Chlamydia - two of the STD types do not show any symptoms in over 80% of people. To prevent Hepatitis B infection, get the Hepatitis B vaccinations mandatorily.