What is a STD?
A group of diseases, that can only or primarily be transmitted through sexual contact, or sexual intimacy where symptoms appear.
Definition
Diseases that are primarily transmitted through sexual contact, either orally, through vaginal or anal intercourse. It can also be transmitted from the exchange of bodily fluids.
The main difference between STD's and STI's is that those with an STD, show and exhibit symptoms associated with the particular disease.
Example - A person with Herpes, will be said to have an STD at the time of the outbreak of sores on their genitals, while one who shows no sores, no warts or rashes would be considered to have an STI.
History
The original term, Venereal Disease comes from the Latin word Veneris, referencing the Roman Goddess of love, Venus.
In the 1990's the term Venereal Disease was replaced by the less judgmental word with STD (Sexually Transmitted Disease.)
VD was coined by a French Doctor, in reference to Syphilis. He termed it morbus venereus (the sickness of Venus).
About
Many strains or types of STDs carry their own special symptoms. However, in General terms, if a man experiences the following, they should seek medical testing, specifically requesting testing for the diseases / infections associated with STI/STD. Discharge from the penis. Discharge from the anus Pain when urinating Unusual or foul smelling discharge from the penis/vagina Severe itching of the genitals Sores or rash in or around the genitals Pain in the testicle, scrotum Rash at or near the genitals.
The problem with STDs is that some of the symptoms may appear elsewhere, than on the genitals. It can include sores in or around the mouth, blurry vision even. Prevention - While the CDC suggests that abstinence is the only sure fire way to prevent getting any sexually transmitted disease, it is an impractical solution for many. In such cases, they recommend Condoms and other Barrier Devices, so that bodily fluid cannot be exchanged between partners. It should also be noted, that when using lubricants, proper types of lubes should be used, so as to not cause the condoms to fail. Use of sex toys should also include using condoms. Proper cleaning of such toys is also recommended.
Practice (Associated Acts): For those who have multiple partners, or more casual relationships, it is recommended that not only should 'safer sex practices' be used, but that regular testing for STD's be also part of one's lifestyle. Routine testing is a simple means to insure that if one is infected, they can catch the illness before complications set in. Most STDs can be easily treated with drug treatment, in some cases just a matter of taking a pill once or twice. However, that assumes the disease is diagnosed and treated at its early stages. The longer the delay in diagnosis, in discover, the more involved treatment can become.
Noteworthy: The CDC (Center for Disease Control) estimate that there are SEVEN HUNDRED THOUSAND NEW CASES OF GONORRHEA EACH YEAR in the United States. It is estimated that in the Sub Sahara region of the World, around SIXTY FIVE MILLION NEW CASES OF CURABLE STD's are reported EACH YEAR. (according to the World Health Organization)
Similiar Terms
If diagnosed as being infected, it is important to refrain from all sexual contact with others. Being treated does not make a person immune from being re-infected either. The more partners one has, sexually, the higher the risk of infection. It is simple math.