STD’s are sexually transmitted diseases. STDs used to be called venereal diseases or VD. They are among the most common contagious diseases. More than 65 million Americans have an incurable STD. Each year, 15.3 million new cases are reported; half of these infections are life-long. STDs are serious illnesses that require treatment. Some STDs, such as HIV, cannot be cured and can be deadly. By learning more about STDs, you can learn ways to protect yourself.
You can get a STD from vaginal, anal, or oral sex. You can also be infected with trichomoniasis through contact with damp or moist objects such as towels, wet clothing, or toilet seats, although it is more commonly spread by sexual contact.

Anyone who has had sexual contact can get an STI. Men and women of all ages, regions, ethnic backgrounds, and economic levels can get STI. One out of four Americans between ages 15 and 55 will catch at least one STI. STIs are most common among teens and young adults, with about two-thirds of all STIs occurring in people under age 25. Young people are more likely to take more risks and have sex with more partners. Additionally, teen girls are more likely to become infected by Chlamydia than adult women are.

Effects: If left untreated in women, the infection can cause Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, which can lead to long term pain, infertility, or even death. In men Chlamydia can cause pain, fever and sterility.

Ways to prevent Chlamydia: * Use condoms: Condoms reduce the risk of becoming infected with an STI. A condom must be put on before any sexual contact begins. Use condoms with a new partner until you are certain he or she does not have an STI. * Practice Safer Sex: Talk with your partner about STIs before beginning a sexual relationship. Find out whether he or she is