3-rx.comCustomer Support
3-rx.com
   
HomeAbout UsFAQContactHelp
News Center
Health Centers
Medical Encyclopedia
Drugs & Medications
Diseases & Conditions
Medical Symptoms
Med. Tests & Exams
Surgery & Procedures
Injuries & Wounds
Diet & Nutrition
Special Topics



\"$alt_text\"');"); } else { echo"\"$alt_text\""; } ?>






You are here : 3-RX.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Sexually Transmitted Disease: Prevention & Expectations
      Category : Health Centers > STDs

Sexually Transmitted Disease

Alternate Names : STD, Venereal Disease, VD

Sexually Transmitted Disease | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring

What can be done to prevent the disease?

While the only way to prevent STDs is to avoid sex, safer sex practices help lower the risk. Having sex with only one person who is faithful and known to be disease-free can also prevent STDs from occurring. The use of male condoms or female condoms reduces, but does not eliminate, the risk of catching an STD. Other forms of birth control, such as oral contraceptives or a diaphragm, do not provide protection from STDs. Epidemics of STDs exist in most parts of the world.

What are the long-term effects of the disease?

Long-term effects vary depending on the type and severity of the sexually transmitted disease, as well as the effectiveness of the treatment.

  • Trichomonas and pubic lice have few or no long-term effects other than continued symptoms.
  • Chlamydia infections and human papilloma virus infections increase a woman's risk of cervical dysplasia and cervical cancer.
  • HIV can result in AIDS and death.
  • Chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause infertility in women.
  • Hepatitis B can cause permanent liver damage, liver cancer, and death.
  • Syphilis can cause permanent brain and heart damage.
  • What are the risks to others?

    All sexually transmitted diseases are contagious. Those who have an STD should not have sexual contact with another person until they receive treatment or until the infection has cleared. All STDs can be transmitted to babies while they are in the uterus or during delivery. Effects of STD infection on babies depend on the disease transmitted and effectiveness of treatment. Effects can include localized infections, congenital abnormalities, or even death.


    Previous section

     

    Next section

    Sexually Transmitted Disease: Diagnosis & Tests

     

    Sexually Transmitted Disease: Treatment & Monitoring

    Author: Adam Brochert, MD
    Reviewer: Barbara Mallari, RN, BSN, PHN
    Date Reviewed: 07/13/01



    \"$alt_text\"');"); } else { echo"\"$alt_text\""; } ?>





    Home | About Us | FAQ | Contact | Advertising Policy | Privacy Policy | Bookmark Site