Sexually Transmitted Infections

Wednesday, 29 June 2011 21:35 Last Updated on Tuesday, 07 February 2012 18:30 Written by Cheryl

QUESTION: Have you been told the lie that sex is "safe"?

Most people just think, "that would never happen to me," but even using a condom does not eliminate your risk of contracting an STI.

Many people also think, "no big deal, I can go to the Doctor." WRONG!!! Though bacterial STIs like gonorrhea and chlamydia can be treated with antibiotics, viral STIs cannot. Herpes, HPV, and HIV are a few that once contracted can be with you for the rest of your life. They can cause ulcers, genital warts, cancer and sometimes death - that is why we refer to them as the Horrible H's!

Click here to see the sexual exposure chart

QUESTION: Is it possible to stay STI free? HECK YES!

By not having sex until marriage you can guarantee that you won't have to deal with an STI, especially the horrible H's. If two people get married and have never exposed themselves to anyone who might have an STI there is no way they can get one.

QUESTION: Is it possible to wait until marriage? HECK YES!

More and more teens are making the choice to stay healthy not only physically, but emotionally and mentally too. Is this choice possible for you?

Ask yourself again, is a 10 minute moment worth the rest of your life?

The United States has an epidemic of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Over 65 million Americans currently have an STI/STD. Approximately 19 million new cases occur each year - (a). Half of these are in people under 25 - (b). There are over 25 significant STIs out there.

The most common curable STIs:

The most common incurable STIs:

STIs are caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites. You get STIs during sexual activity, including vaginal sex, oral sex and anal sex. You can get STIs from someone who has no symptoms. Most people with STIs have no symptoms. As the number of your partners increases, the chances of contracting an STI increases.

The good news: STIs can be prevented!

The only way to avoid the risk of infection is to avoid sexual activity until you are committed to an uninfected partner for life.

You have control over your health!

(a) Trends in Sexually Transmitted Diseases in the United States: 2009 National Data for Gonorrhea, Chlamydia and Syphilis, Center for Disease Control
(b) 2009 Sexually Transmitted Diseases Surveillance http://www.cdc.gov/std/stats09/default.htm, STDs in Adolescents and Young adults, Center for Disease Control