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STDs
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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.
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Chlamydia
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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.
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Trichomoniasis
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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
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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).
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Genital Herpes
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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.
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HIV
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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
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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.
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Pregnancy
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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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