4 STDs and How to Prevent Them

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a subject many people don’t want to talk about, but it’s a major public health concern. Despite the silence, STD infections affect millions of people in the United States every year. 

At A&U Family Medicine in Sugar Land, Texas, our team of family medicine specialists, led by Dr. Hammad Zaidi, takes a proactive approach to managing health. We know the stigma surrounding STDs and the harm they cause, and we’re using this month’s blog to share information about common STDs and how to prevent them. 

1. Human papillomavirus (HPV)

Almost everyone gets HPV at some point during their life. It’s a highly contagious viral infection that spreads through skin-to-skin contact. There are many strains of HPV; several cause warts, but some can lead to cancer. 

Your immune system may fight off an HPV infection over time, but the virus lingers in some people. If you contract a cancer-causing HPV strain through sexual contact and it doesn’t go away on its own, you’re at greater risk of developing genital cancer. 

Getting vaccinated for HPV may help your immune system fight off the cancer-causing HPV strains, reducing your risk of serious complications. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends people get vaccinated for HPV between ages 11 and 26, ideally before becoming sexually active to receive the most protection.

2. Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a bacterial STD that spreads through sexual contact. You can have chlamydia without signs or symptoms. Left untreated, the bacterial infection can cause damage to the reproductive organs. For women, an untreated chlamydia infection may lead to infertility.

Abstinence is the best way to prevent chlamydia. If you’re sexually active, you can reduce your risk of infection by being in a monogamous relationship with a sexual partner who tests negative for chlamydia. 

Using condoms correctly may also prevent the spread of this infection.

3. HIV

HIV is a viral infection spread through contact with certain bodily fluids like blood, semen, and vaginal fluids. Abstinence is the best way to prevent HIV. However, proper use of condoms is also effective.

People who engage in high-risk sexual activity — having sex without a condom, having multiple sexual partners, or having anal sex — may take pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to prevent HIV. PrEP is a medicine that stops the virus that causes HIV from settling in the body and spreading. 

4. Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a parasitic STD. The parasite usually stays in the lower part of the genital area in women and inside the penis and spreads through sexual contact.

Abstaining from sexual intercourse is your best protection against trichomoniasis. You can also prevent infection with proper condom use and being in a monogamous relationship with a partner who tests negative for STDs. 

How do you know if you have an STD?

If you have any abnormal genital symptoms like itching, unusual discharge, or sores, you should get tested for STDs. Early diagnosis and treatment may reduce your risk of complications. 

We offer private and nonjudgmental STD testing when you need it. We can also test for STDs at your annual physical exam. Knowing about STDs is important for prevention, too. 

For compassionate care from an experienced team who puts your health first, call A&U Family Medicine at 281-895-7703 today or book an appointment online.