STD (Sexually Transmitted Disease) is an infection that is passed from one person to another through sexual contact. STDs are caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. They can be spread through any type of sexual activity that involves skin-to-skin contact or exchange of body fluids, such as:
• Vaginal intercourse
• Anal intercourse
• Oral sex
STDs can also be spread through non-sexual activities, such as:
+ Blood transfusions
+ Organ transplants
+ Sharing needles or other injecting drug equipment
The most common STDs are chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, trichomoniasis, human papillomavirus (HPV), HIV/AIDS, and hepatitis B. However, there are many more types of STDs. Some STDs cause symptoms that can be easily seen or felt. Others do not cause symptoms until they have already done serious damage to the body. For this reason, it is important to get tested for STDs even if you do not have any symptoms. If you think you might have an STD, it is important to see a health care provider right away so that you can get treated and avoid passing the infection on to others.