Sexual
Health, Prevention and Treatment
STD/STI Prevention
Practicing
safe sex through barrier contraception, monogamy with an uninfected partner,
vaccination and not sharing needles are key ways to prevent sexually
transmitted diseases and infections (STDs/STIs).
Barrier Methods
- Male
and female condoms
- Dental
dams
Vaccines
- HPV
vaccine
- Hepatitis
B vaccine
STD/STI Testing
Getting
tested regularly, even without symptoms, is crucial for identifying and
treating STDs/STIs early before complications arise.
Recommended Screenings
- Chlamydia
and Gonorrhea -
Annual test if sexually active under 25
- HIV - Test at least once between
ages 13-64
- Syphilis - Screening depends on risk
factors
- HPV - HPV DNA test every 3-5
years if over 30
- Hepatitis
C -
Screening based on individual risk factors
Testing
can identify infections before symptoms appear, allowing for prompt treatment.
STD/STI Treatment
Most
STDs/STIs can be cured with antibiotics or antiviral medication if caught
early. Treatment is crucial to prevent complications like infertility, certain
cancers, neonatal infections, and organ damage.
Common Treatments
- Chlamydia - Antibiotics like Azithromycin
or Doxycycline
- Gonorrhea - Antibiotics like
Ceftriaxone and Azithromycin
- Syphilis - Penicillin injections
- Trichomoniasis - Oral antibiotics like
Metronidazole
- HIV - Antiviral medications
(ART)
Complete
the full treatment regimen as prescribed and avoid sexual activity until cured.
Reproductive Health
Reproductive
health encompasses fertility awareness, family planning, contraception,
preconception care, abortion access and menstrual hygiene.
Key Aspects
- Understanding
fertility cycle and ovulation
- Pregnancy
planning and prenatal vitamins
- Access
to contraception - condoms, birth control, etc.
- Cancer
screenings - pap smears, mammograms
- Resources
for abortion and menstrual products
Good
reproductive health means individuals can control if, when and how often to
reproduce.
Sexual Dysfunction
Sexual
dysfunction involves problems with desire, arousal, orgasm or pain that create
distress or strain relationships. Underlying health issues, medications, stress
and mental health can contribute.
Treatment Options
- Counseling
and sex therapy
- Hormone
therapy
- Medical
devices like vacuum pumps or vaginal dilators
- Medications
like Viagra for erectile dysfunction
- Pelvic
floor physical therapy
Treatment
success improves when partners openly communicate their needs and feelings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get tested for STDs?
CDC
recommends all sexually active individuals get tested for common STDs like
chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis at least once a year. More frequent testing
may be required based on risk factors.
What birth control methods are most
effective?
Implants,
IUDs and sterilization offer over 99% effectiveness at preventing pregnancy.
Other options like the pill, ring, shot and condoms are 91-94% effective with
perfect use.
What causes erectile dysfunction?
Physical
causes include heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity,
medication side effects and low testosterone. Psychological factors like
stress, anxiety and depression may also play a role.
