Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
Regular Health Screening at Washington Township Medical Foundation
Sexually transmitted diseases or STDs are a series of illnesses and disorders
that can be spread through sexual contact. Knowing about these illnesses
is extremely important for all sexually active teens and adults. It is
also important to regularly get tested for STDs and to practice safe sex
behaviors in order to protect yourself from these infections.
Some of the most common types of STDs include:
- Gonorrhea
- Genital herpes
- Hepatitis
- HIV / AIDS
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Syphilis
- Trichomoniasis
- Bacterial vaginosis (BV)
- Chlamydia
- Human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Crabs / pubic lice
While there are cures available for some types of STDs such as gonorrhea,
chlamydia, and syphilis—all of which are bacterial infections—others
can only be addressed through ongoing treatment and symptom management
and cannot be definitively cured. If you have been having unprotected
sex or if you have had multiple partners, it is important to get tested
regularly for STDs. Ask your doctor at Washington Township Medical Foundation
about screening for STDs.
STDs & Pregnancy
Women are more likely to get an STD than men. Additionally, if left untreated,
STDs can cause complications with pregnancy, fertility, and other health
issues down the line. STDs can also be passed from an infected mother
to her unborn child in pregnancy or during delivery.