Signs and Symptoms Of STDs

If you are engaging in any type of sexual activity, you are at risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease.  While it is a common misconception that using a condom or other type of barrier device, you are still at risk for getting an STD.  While they are very effective at preventing many types of sexually transmitted diseases, the only sure fire method of protecting yourself is through abstinence.  It's 100 percent, guaranteed. 

Even if you aren't showing signs and symptoms of STDs, you should still get tested for them.  Many don't have direct signs and symptoms, with many more having a lengthy incubation period, in which time you could be transferring the disease to other sexual partners.  While some STDs can be treated and cured, there are many more that you will be stuck with for the rest of your life, primarily due to the fact they're viruses, which have no real cure.  Various STDs can have their signs and symptoms treated, but you will continue to experience them through various times in your life.  Some sexually transmitted diseases can even result in death, just another reason that practicing safe sex is important.

Even though condoms aren't 100 percent effective, if used properly they are the best protection available for those who choose to be sexually active.  When using a condom, make sure you use it properly.  All boxes have instructions for proper use on the back, and even if you think you have an idea on how to improve their performance, you're probably wrong.  Just follow the instructions and don't try any of this.

• Don't use more than one condom at once.  It creates friction which causes an increased chance of breakage.
• Don't try using something like saran wrap instead of an actual condom. 
• Don't use an out of date condom.
• Avoid using oil-based lubricants, since they weaken latex.
• Use a new condom every time.
• Don't put condoms in your wallet.  The heat makes them weak.

Actual Signs And Symptoms Of STDs

Even though there are hundreds of sexually transmitted diseases, many of them share very similar sign and symptoms.  With a few exceptions for specific diseases, anytime you see something out of the ordinary, you should get tested.  As a regular rule of thumb, if you are sexually active, you should be tested every 6 months to a year if switching partners or not having a steady one. Even if you are in a committed relationship, getting test, albeit less frequently, never hurts.  Some STDs dont' show signs or symptoms and can take a long period of time before they show up during testing. 

Generally, if you have any of the following, you should halt all sexual activity and get tested immediately.

• Discharge from the vagina or penis
• Painful intercourse
• Burning sensation during intercourse
• Burning during urination
• Genital pain
• Bumps in the genital area
• Sores in the genital area
• Warts in the genital area
• Rash in the genital area
• Fatigue
  
• Fever
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Abnormal itching in the genital area

You know what looks normal, so if any of these signs and symptoms of STDs should happen to pop up, make sure you get it treated.  There are some STDs that show no signs and symptoms, and only through testing can you know for sure if you have it or not.  HIV/AIDS is a special case when discussing the signs and symptoms of STDs.  Through the multiple stages of the disease, you may develop additional symptoms, including diarrhea, headaches, night sweats and frequent sickness due to a decrease in the effectiveness of your immune system.  HIV/AIDS is a fatal disease, but can be managed well with early detection and medication.  Here are some of the other STDs the exhibit the signs and symptoms listed above.

• Chlamydia
• Genital Herpes
• HPV - Genital Warts
• Gonorrhea
• Syphilis
• Hepatitis
• Crabs