STDs or sexually transmitted diseases are common yet preventable with safe sex practices. It is best to educate yourself on the three most common STDs to prevent contracting one in the future. If you are sexually active, you should do an STD screening at least once a year—or after each sexual encounter—if protection is not used to keep your health in good condition.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

The most common STD is the human papillomavirus, or HPV. This virus frequently presents with no symptoms and clears up on its own. Because HPV causes little to no symptoms, you won’t know you have it until you get screened. That is why there are so few cases reported each year. An HPV vaccine is available and most effective when given to children ages 11-12; it’s least effective for patients older than twenty-six years.

Chlamydia

Chlamydia, the most commonly reported STD, is a bacterial infection. Chlamydia is treated with antibiotics. While easily treated with antibiotics, chlamydia should never be left untreated because it can severely damage reproductive organs. The bacteria is especially dangerous to women because it can spread to the uterus and fallopian tubes, leading to pelvic inflammatory disease. This is preventable if you talk with your doctor after noticing symptoms.

Symptoms of chlamydia can appear in individuals differently, and they may experience one or more from the following list:

• Pain during urination
• Pain during sex
• Abdominal pain
• Rectal pain, discharge, or bleeding
• Abnormal discharge from the genitals

Pregnant women should seek medical attention, to prevent the infection from spreading to the fetus or causing an ectopic pregnancy.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is another bacterial infection that is treated with antibiotics. Similar to chlamydia, delaying treatment is detrimental to your health. Ignoring the symptoms and not seeking medical care risks contraction of HIV.

Gonorrhea symptoms include:

• Pain during urination
• Abnormal discharge from the genitals
• Bleeding between periods for women
• Swollen testicles for men

Gonorrhea is another STD that passes to the fetus if the bacteria is contracted during pregnancy. You can find STD testing in Raleigh or your local clinic to ensure a safe delivery.

Sexually transmitted diseases are preventable when you practice safe sex by using condoms or other STD prevention tools. Now that you know about the three most common STDs, you can protect your partner and yourself. Regularly check with your doctor for STD testing to stay on top of your sexual health.