STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) use to be referred to venereal diseases (VD) back in the day.  They are a group of diseases that are spread through sexual contact (not just penetration).  They can also be spread through contact with infected blood.

 

STDs can be spread through oral sex, vaginal sex and anal sex.  They can also be spread through skin-to-skin contact of the genital area.  This means that some STDs can be spread even if correctly using a condom. 

 

Over 19 million people will get an STD this year in the States.  Men have higher rates of STDs but women with STDs have worse symptoms.  The greatest risk factor for getting STDs is the number of sexual partners.  The more partners –the more opportunities to get infected.

 

Many people still associate STDs with men that have sex with men (MSM).  MSM are at higher risk for STDs because they are more likely to have more sexual partners and anal sex.  However, we are all at risk for STDs –no matter your gender, nationality or sexual preference. 

 

Some STDs are easily treatable; other STDs can not be healed but symptoms can be treated.

 

The most common sexually transmitted diseases: 

 

1.     Chlamydia

2.     Gonorrhea

3.     Syphilis

4.     Mycoplasma Genitalium

5.     Trichomoniasis

6.     Crabs/Pubic lice

7.     Human Papillomavirus (HPV)/genital warts

8.     HIV/AIDS

9.     Herpes/HSV

 

The only way to absolutely avoid the risk of getting an STD is complete abstinence.  The second best is having a mutually monogamous sexual relationship between two uninfected people.  Then there are female and male condoms (rubbers, jimmies, hoody, lid, rain coat…).

 

Little side note: Currently, in the States, for schools to receive federal funding for sexual education, they must teach an abstinence only program.    

 

Latex male condoms are put on an erect penis to act as a physical barrier.  They are not a 100% guarantee but when used correctly and consistently they are highly effective in stopping STD transmission.  Natural or lamb skin condoms do not protect you from STDs.

 

Latex male condoms can be used with nonoxnol-9 (a spermicide).  Addition of the spermicide has been proven to decrease the risk of getting gonorrhea and chlamydia.

 

Lubricant can also be used with condoms too.  It is important to get a water-based lubricant because use of oil-based (like Vaseline, lotions, baby oil) can eat away at the condom so that the condom will tear easily.    

 

Female condoms are a sheath that is put into the vagina that acts as a protective border.  They also do not offer 100% protection.  However, they provide an option for women to be completely in charge of STD protection.   DO NOT use male and female condoms together…it will cause tearing and no protection will be provided!

 

There are dental dams too –to use when having oral sex.

 

Condoms should be used each time you have sex. So, once the man ejaculates (cums), a new condom needs to be used if you have sex again.  They have expiration dates -so check them and please guys- do not keep them in your wallet!  Heat and friction from the wallet pocket can cause the condom to break down before its expiration date. 

 

There are lots of different kinds of condoms –flavored, colored, glow in the dark, vibrating, ribbed and lubricated…the list goes on.  So have fun with it and  Don’t be a loner, cover that boner!

Anyone that knows me will tell you, I can talk about condoms and STDs all day long! Leave me a comment or email me at nova@getpharmacyadvice.com