It’s pretty widespread knowledge that Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) quickly travel around the teenage community. It’s even been said that ONE IN FOUR teenagers have an STD. And it makes sense. Teenagers who become sexually active at a younger age are more susceptible. Plus, lack of understanding of safe sex practices can also contribute to the occurrence of STDs in teens. Although teens are known for their susceptibility, a lesser known and recognized problem is that college students, even those at KU, are at risk, too. The STDs traveling around college campuses are a growing concern that can have detrimental effects on students and their families in the long run if untreated.
Teens aren't the only ones who get STDs. If you're in college, make sure to practice safe sex, too.
How do you Get an STD?
One of the easiest ways to get an STD is to sleep with someone who has an STD. A disease can be transmitted by any anal, oral and/or genital contact. While it’s very difficult to stop the transfer of some STDs, generally latex condoms work the best. Only condoms are said to prevent the spread of an STD, even other birth control methods won’t work when it comes to sexual diseases. And sometimes, condoms won’t even work.
Why Treat an STD
Some of the symptoms of an STD are undetectable, but others make it painfully apparent that you’ve been infected. Numbness, burning, rashes and discharge are just a few of the symptoms. Even if you’re not experiencing pain, it’s critical that you get tested for an STD if you recognize any symptoms, or a sexual partner notifies you that they have one. If your test turns out positive, there are treatment options for you.
The reasons to treat an STD start out as the same to treat nearly any medical condition – feel better, relieve any pain, remove any unwanted embarrassing areas. However, treating STDs is imperative because it can cause detriments to your future fertility if you don’t have it checked and treated.
STDs impact Fertility
College students MUST realize that they are susceptible to STDs just like teens. If you’re sexually active, and especially if you’ve been active since your early teens and have had multiple sexual partners, you are at risk for an STD.
While a marriage and kids may not be on your radar in the next few years, it’s actually not as far off as it may seem. Acquiring an STD doesn’t only effect your current health – but it will impact your future spouse and even your chance at having children. Left untreated, an STD can result in infertility and years of heartbreak at the loss of biological children.
It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to STDs. Some can be easily treated with antibiotics if caught early. If you’ve had multiple sexual partners or suspect you could carrying an STD (or have received one recently), don’t wait. Get checked today.
More Information on STDs:
The CDC on STDs
Get checked for an STD in Lawrence, KS
Student Health Blog 