HIV and STD Prevention
Sexually transmitted diseases are also called STDs, or are referred to as sexually transmitted infections or STIs. STDs/STIs do not refer to any one disease but include more than 25 infectious organisms. STDs are caused by bacteria or viruses. STDs are almost always spread from person to person by sexual intercourse, but STDs can also be spread through oral sex. Some STDs, such as hepatitis B or HIV infection, are also transmitted through blood-to-blood contact, through the sharing of needles or equipment to inject drugs, body pierce or tattoo.
Many people are aware of the most prominent STD—HIV. However, many other STDs affect millions of men and women each year. Many of these STDs initially cause no symptoms, especially in women. Symptoms, when they do develop, may be confused with those of other diseases that are not transmitted through sexual contact. STDs can still be transmitted person to person even if they do not show symptoms. Also, health problems caused by STDs tend to be more severe for women than for men.
There are many sexually transmitted diseases including:
- Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)
- Chancroid
- Chlamydia
- Genital Herpes/HSV
- Genital Warts/HPV
- Gonorrhea
- Syphilis
- Viral Hepatitis
Common signs/symptoms of STDs
- Itching around the vagina
- Discharge from the vagina for women
- Discharge from the penis for men
- Pain during sex,
- Pain during urination
- Sore throats in persons engaging in oral sex
- Pain in the anus in persons engaging in anal sex
- Painless red sores (chancres) on the genital area, tongue or throat
- A scaly rash on the palms and soles of the feet
- Small blisters that turn into scabs on the genital area
- Swollen glands, fever and body aches
- Unusual infections, unexplained fatigue, night sweats and weight loss
- Soft, flesh-colored warts around the genital area
Helpful Resources
- For information on local HIV/STD testing please call the William W. Backus Hospital:
- HIV Testing 823-6343
- Sexually Transmitted Disease Clinic 823-6344
- Infectious Disease Clinic 823-6545
- For more information on HIV/STDs please visit the CDC's STD website or call the National Aids Hotline at 1-800-342-AIDS or the National STD Hotline at 1-800-227-8922.
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