Gynecology FAQ - Preventing STDs
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are a common health concern and issue for women. At NOVA Women's Healthcare, our gynecologists can educate you about STDs, teach you practical steps for STD prevention, and provide treatment for STDs.
There's no question or concern about STDs that will make us blush. Click here to learn about our non-judgemental and confidential gynecology services. Or click here to see our fees. Or to Contact Us, click here. Or select
What are STDs?
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) represent a class of illnesses that are typically transmitted between people by means of sexual contact, including vaginal intercourse, oral sex, and anal sex.
Unfortunately, a person may be infected, and may potentially infect others, without showing signs of disease. Some STDs can also be transmitted via use of an IV drug needle after its use by an infected person, as well as through childbirth or breastfeeding.
The most common STDs are Candidiasis, Chlamydia, Trichomoniasis, and Genital herpes. Other STDs of concern are Gonorrhea, Syphilis, Hepatitis B and HIV.
If you are going to have sex or you are already sexually active, make an appointment at our gynecology center to learn about STD prevention. For more imformation about STDs, go to http://www.avert.org/std.htm.
What can I do to reduce my risks to STDs?
Are you sexually active? Although not having sex is the best known way to prevent HIV, STDs, and pregnancy, there are ways that you can reduce your risks. Properly using a male or female condom, for example, can reduce your risk of contracting an STD.
For more information about STD prevention, go to http://www.cdcnpin.org/scripts/std/prevent.asp.
What is Chlamydia?
Chlamydia is one of the most common STDs. Typically, it is passed from one sexual partner during vaginal, anal or oral sex. Treated immediately, it does not cause long term health issues. Untreated, it can lead to serious health problems for a woman.
Chlamydia can cause pelvic inflammatory disease which can compromise your reproductive health and ability to have children. Chlamydia can also be transmitted to babies at birth and cause health issues in newborn including blindness and pneumonia.
Most people do not have symptoms or the symptoms may be unnoticed. When symptoms of Chlamydia occur, they can include pain during urination, cloudy urine or abnormal discharge from the penis or vagina.
Once you are infected, you can spread Chlamydia even if you do not have symptoms. That's why it's a good idea to get tested for Chlamydia once a year if you or your partner is sexually active. To schedule a Chlamydia test or other STD tests, contact us for an appointment.
Disclaimer
The information presented throughout our site is for educational purposes only and is not engaged in rendering medical advice or professional services. The information provided on our website and through our Links should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or a disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, you should consult a health care provider.