How to protect yourself
While many STDs can be cured or treated with medication, the consequences of untreated STDs can include:  infertility, pregnancy complications, cervical cancer, pelvic inflammatory disease, birth defects and a 3 to 5 fold increased risk of HIV transmission.

The only 100% effective way to prevent the transmission of STDs is abstinence.  For sexually active persons, correct and consistent use of male latex condoms is highly effective in preventing many STDs.

• Abstinence is the best protection for all STDs among unmarried partners.
• If you are sexually active…. have sex with ONLY one uninfected partner who ONLY has sex with you.
• ALWAYS use condoms made of latex or polyurethane.
• Include STD testing as part of your regular medical check-up.
• Learn the common symptoms of STDs.
• Do not use drugs or alcohol in potentially intimate situations.  Both inhibit your ability to make good decisions.
• If you or your partner has an STD, get tested and treated AT ONCE.
• If you have an STD… do NOT have sex until your treatment is complete and your partners have been tested.

Why is it Important?

While many STDs can be cured or treated with medication, the consequences of untreated STDs can include:

• Infertility
• Pregnancy complications
• Cervical cancer
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Birth Defects
• 3 to 5 fold increased risk of HIV transmission

Condoms
The only 100% effective way to prevent the transmission of STDs is abstinence.  For sexually active persons, correct and consistent use of male latex condoms is highly effective in preventing many STDs.

Condoms are a critically important tool for STD and HIV/AIDS prevention.  When used consistently and correctly, latex condoms significantly reduce the risk of transmission of HIV and other STDs.

Communication
Communication around STD prevention is also a central component of a healthy relationship.  Partners that can discuss sensitive issues such as sexual history, risk behavior, testing and condom use help to build a healthy relationship by showing mutual respect and making each other feel safe and healthy, both physically and emotionally.