SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASE AND PREVENTION Symptom Definition Seeking information about how to prevent sexually transmitted diseases (STD). General Information A sexually transmitted disease is an infection that is transmitted through sexual intercourse (vaginal, anal, oral). It is also sometimes referred to as a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Examples of STD's include chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes, HIV, pubic lice, and trichomonas. Some STD's can be cured with antibiotics (e.g., gonorrhea, chlamydia). Some STD's cannot cured, but the symptoms can be reduced (e.g., herpes, HIV) by taking prescription medications. Transmission Most STDs are transmitted by exchange of body fluids (e.g., semen, vaginal secretions or blood) during oral, anal, or vaginal sex. Also can occur following direct contact with any sores/lesions during sex. A latex condom acts as barrier and is effective at preventing STD's. Abstinence and Other "Safe" Sexual Activities There are only two 100% effective means of avoiding STDs: Abstaining from sexual intercourse and from oral sex. A truly monogamous (one sexual partner only) and longstanding relationship between two uninfected partners. Sexual behaviors that are considered safe (and do not usually transmit STDs) include holding hands, hugging, touching and kissing (as long as there are no sores on the lips or in the mouth). Touching semen during mutual masturbation generally is safe. Behaviors That Do Not Prevent STD's Douching the vagina or showering after sex does not prevent STD's. Withdrawal (when a man pulls his penis out before he ejaculates) is not a way to prevent STD's or pregnancy. Having a STD once does not prevent you from getting it again. Using the birth control pill, birth control patch, or Depoprovera shots won't prevent you from getting a STD. You still need to protect yourself with condoms. See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If PENIS SYMPTOMS (male genital symptoms) VULVAR SYMPTOMS (female genital symptoms) Questions about CHLAMYDIA, a sexually transmitted disease Questions about GENITAL HERPES, a sexually transmitted disease Questions about GONORRHEA, a sexually transmitted disease Questions about HIV EXPOSURE, a sexually transmitted disease Questions about PUBIC LICE, a sexually transmitted disease Questions about TRICHOMONAS, a sexually transmitted disease WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR FOR STD'S Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If You were forced to have sex (sexual assault or rape) You had sexual intercourse (in the past 72 hours) with someone who was diagnosed with HIV Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9am and 4pm) If You think you need to be seen Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If You have other questions or concerns You are worried you might have a sexually transmitted disease You had sexual intercourse with someone who was diagnosed with a STD Self Care at Home If No symptoms and you don't think you need to be seen Questions about preventing STD's by using condoms Back to Top HOME CARE ADVICE FOR PREVENTING STD'S General condom information: Latex condoms are the only effective way to prevent STDs during sexual intercourse. You can also use condoms during oral sex. Obtaining a condom: Buy latex rubber condoms. Persons who are allergic to latex can use a polyurethane (plastic) condom. Never use condoms made from animal skins; they can leak. You can get condoms at public health clinics (often free), drug stores, supermarkets, and via the internet. You do not need a prescription. Storing condoms Store condoms at room temperature. Avoid extreme heat, extreme cold, or sunlight. You might want to keep a condom in your wallet or purse; this way it is ready and available. Putting on a condom - Instructions: Hold the condom at the tip to squeeze out the air. Roll the condom all the way down the erect penis. (Do not try to put a condom on a soft penis.) If you use a lubricant during sex, make sure it is water-based (e.g. K-Y Liquid, Astroglide). Do not use petroleum jelly (Vaseline), vegetable oil (Crisco), or baby oil; these can cause a condom to break. Taking off a condom - Instructions: After sex, hold onto the condom while the penis is being pulled out. The penis should be pulled out while still erect, so that sperm (semen) doesn't leak out of the condom. Female condoms There are female condoms (e.g., Reality) that you can also buy without a prescription. A female condom is a polyurethane (plastic) sheath that is placed inside the vagina. STD National Hotline The CDC National STD Hotline provides information on sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, HPV/genital warts, herpes, and HIV/AIDS. Specialists can provide general information, referrals to local clinics, and written materials about STDs and disease prevention. Toll-free number (English): (800) 227-8922 Toll-free number (Spanish): (800) 344-7432 Their website is at: http://www.ashastd.org/N Pregnancy Test When In Doubt: If there is any doubt about the possibility of pregnancy, then obtain and use a urine pregnancy test from the store. Call Your Doctor If: Pregnancy test is positive; or if you have difficulties with the home pregnancy test. You become worse or develop any of the “Call Your Doctor” symptoms. References and Resources American Social Health Association “Answers to your questions about teen sexual health and sexually transmitted diseases” www.iwannaknow.org Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines 2002. MMWR. 2002; 51(RR-6):1-80. Public Health Agency of Canada Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI), Sexual Health Facts and Information http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/std-mts/faq_e.aspx Back to Top Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information. Adult HouseCalls Online. Copyright © 2000-2005 David Thompson, M.D. FACEP Reviewed 6/2005 Revised 6/2005 View Anatomic Index of Topics