Sexually transmitted disease Also called: STD. An infection transmitted through sexual contact, caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites.

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MOST COMMON TYPES

Human papillomavirus infection

An infection that causes warts in various parts of the body, depending on the strain.

 

Genital herpes

A common sexually transmitted infection marked by genital pain and sores.

 

Chlamydia

A common sexually transmitted infection that may not cause symptoms.

 

Gonorrhea

A sexually transmitted bacterial infection that, if untreated, may cause infertility.

 

HIV/AIDS

HIV causes AIDS and interferes with the body's ability to fight infections.

 

Syphilis

A bacterial infection usually spread by sexual contact that starts as a painless sore.

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Risk factors

Anyone who is sexually active risks some degree of exposure to a sexually transmitted disease (STD) or a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Factors that may increase that risk include:

• Having unprotected sex. Vaginal or anal penetration by an infected partner who isn't wearing a latex condom significantly increases the risk of getting an STI. Improper or inconsistent use of condoms can also increase your risk.

  Oral sex may be less risky, but infections can still be transmitted without a latex condom or a dental dam — a thin, square piece of rubber made with latex or silicone.

• Having sexual contact with multiple partners. The more people you have sexual contact with, the greater your risk. This is true for concurrent partners as well as monogamous consecutive relationships.

• Having a history of STIs. Having one STI makes it much easier for another STI to take hold.

• Anyone forced to have sexual intercourse or sexual activity. Dealing with rape or assault can be difficult, but it's important to see a doctor as soon as possible so that you can receive screening, treatment and emotional support.

• Misuse of alcohol or use of recreational drugs. Substance misuse can inhibit your judgment, making you more willing to participate in risky behaviors.

• Injecting drugs. Needle sharing spreads many serious infections, including HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C.

• Being young. Half the STIs occur in people between the ages of 15 and 24.

• Men who request prescriptions for drugs to treat erectile dysfunction. Men who ask their doctors for prescriptions for drugs such as sildenafil (Viagra, Revatio), tadalafil (Cialis, Adcirca) and vardenafil (Levitra) have higher rates of STIs. Be sure you are up to date on safe sex practices if you ask your doctor for one of these medications.