SAFE AND RESPONSIBLE SEXSTRESSSUBSTANCE ABUSELINKSFAQ

 


This section provides objective sexual health information for high school students.

 

 

STDs


You've probably heard different things about STDs.

It's worth finding out the right information, because being infected with an STD would have an impact on your life. The risk is serious. Here's what you need to know about the risks of unprotected sex.

 

Chlamydia


A bacterial infection of the genital area.

There are no symptoms in most women and many men who have it. Others may experience abnormal vaginal bleeding (not your period), unusual discharge or pain during urination within one to three weeks of having sex with an infected partner.

 

Trichomoniasis


A parasitic infection of the genital area.

Often there are no symptoms, especially in men. Some women note a frothy, smelly, yellowish-green vaginal discharge, and/or genital area discomfort, usually within 4 days to one month after exposure to the parasite. Men may notice a discharge from the penis.

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Syphilis


An infection caused by small organisms, which can spread throughout the body.

In the first phase, sores (chancre) may appear on the genitals or mouth several weeks to three months after exposure, lasting for one to five weeks. Often, however, there are no noticeable symptoms. In the second stage, up to 10 weeks after the initial sore has disappeared, a variety of symptoms can appear, including a rash (often on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, or genital area).

 

Genital Herpes


A viral infection of the genital area (and sometimes around the mouth).

There are two kinds of herpes. Herpes 1 causes cold sores and fever blisters on the mouth but can be spread to the genitals; Herpes 2 is usually on the genitals but it can be spread to the mouth. Nearly two-thirds of people who are infected with herpes don't even realize it. An outbreak can cause red bumps that turn into painful blisters or sores on the vagina, penis, buttocks, thighs, or elsewhere. During the first attack, it can also lead to flu-like symptoms, including fever, headaches, and swollen glands. Symptoms usually appear within two weeks of infection but can take longer in some cases. The first outbreak is usually more severe than later recurrences.

 

HIV


The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the cause of AIDS.

Many people who have HIV don't even know it because symptoms may not appear for 10 years or longer. Others experience unexplained weight loss, flu-like symptoms, diarrhea, fatigue, persistent fevers, night sweats, headaches, mental disorders, or severe or recurring vaginal yeast infections.

There is no cure and AIDS is considered fatal. Several new antiviral medications can slow progression of the infection and delay the onset of AIDS symptoms. Early treatment can make a big difference.

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Condom


Most contraceptives don't guard against HIV and other STDs; only condoms do - the male or female variety. For HIV/STD protection, a new one is needed each and every time you have intercourse, even when using another form of birth control.

 

 

Pregnancy


You may think it can't happen to you, but every year some of the pregnancies occurring in this country are unintended. Among young people, the problem is especially serious. Unintended pregnancy can have serious consequences for women and men: for your chances of finishing your education, for your financial future, and for the mother's health, not to mention the baby's health and development.

If you've had unprotected sex (or your method of birth control failed)...

If your condom broke or if you forgot to use protection, there is something you can do. You can take emergency contraception pills within 72 hours (3 days) after to prevent an unintended pregnancy.

If you think you're pregnant...

If you've missed your period, especially if your breasts are tender or swollen or you feel tired or sick to your stomach - you may be pregnant. If you think you might be pregnant, you need to get a pregnancy test right away to find out for sure.

 

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Internet Medical Adviser from Japan
mail address adviser@town.kaminaka.fukui.jp


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