Provided
by The American Social Health Association
Lots
of People Have STDs
Many
people believe they are not at risk for sexually transmitted diseases. But STDs
are the nation's most common type of infection. Even people who have had only
one sexual partner can have an STD. You are at risk if:
You
or your partner have ever had another partner You don't know your partner's
sexual history You have ever had unprotected sex You have symptoms such
as warts, sores, burning, or redness in your genital area. Why Talk with Your
Health Care Provider?
Many
people feel that talking about sexual health can be awkward or embarrassing. But
there are good reasons to start the conversation. Some STDs can cause lasting
damage or become more difficult to treat the longer you wait. Enlisting the help
of your health care provider is the first step in diagnosing and treating any
sexually transmitted disease--and protecting your sexual health.
How
to Start Talking
You
may expect your provider to ask you about your risk for STDs. But even if your
provider doesn't ask, bring it up. Here are some ways to start talking:
"I
have a new boyfriend and we haven't been using condoms every time. Am I at risk
for a sexually transmitted disease?"
"My
girlfriend found out she has genital warts. I'd like to be checked for warts and
other STDs."
What
to Tell Your Provider
Your
provider needs to know some personal information about you so that she or he can
assess your risk for STDs and decide what tests to order. You may want to talk
to your provider about the following:
Your
sexual history Your current sexual practices About your condom use Any
symptoms you have If you could be pregnant. What to Ask Your Provider
about your Sexual Health
It
may help to bring a list of questions to your office visit. You also may want
to write down the information you learn. Following are some questions you may
want to ask about your risk for STDs and how to protect yourself:
What
is an STD? Could I have an STD and not know it? How often should I be
tested for STDs? Should I be tested for any STDs today? How often should
I have a Pap smear? How can I protect myself and my partner from STDs? Tips
for Raising your Comfort Level
Most
people feel more comfortable talking either before or after the exam--while they
are fully dressed. Tell your provider you would like 10 to 15 minutes to discuss
your health concerns. If your provider uses medical terms you don't understand,
ask for an explanation. You have a right to understand words related to your health.
If
You Are Diagnosed with an STD
The
good news is that all STDs can be treated or cured. Those caused by bacteria (such
as chlamydia or gonorrhea) can be cured with antibiotics. Those caused by a virus
(such as herpes or HPV) cannot be cured, but they can be treated to relieve symptoms.
Follow
your provider's treatment directions. Ask your provider about ways to avoid
spreading the STD to a partner. Tell your partner you have an STD. Ask your
partner to get tested too. Avoid sex until both you and your partner have
been treated. Return for follow-up care if your provider asks you to. Coming
to Terms with How You Feel
Many
people are shocked or upset when they learn they have an STD. But remember, STDs
are very common. Getting one does not mean you are bad or different. The most
important step is to get help--by talking with your health care provider and learning
what you need to know about how to protect yourself and others.
About
HPV and Genital Warts
Human
papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common STDs, so you may have specific
concerns you want to discuss with your provider. Some types of HPV can cause genital
warts--growths or bumps that appear on the penis, anus, vulva, vagina, cervix,
or thigh. Other types of HPV infect the cervix, and can lead to cervical cancer
unless the condition is treated. HPV often causes no symptoms.
HPV
and Cervical Cancer
The
types of HPV linked to cervical cancer are usually not the types that cause genital
warts. But a woman with genital warts, like any other sexually active woman, should
get yearly Pap smears. The Pap smear detects abnormal cells caused by HPV that
can lead to cancer. With regular Pap smears and follow-up care, cervical cancer
can almost always be prevented or cured.
How
Genital Warts Are Treated
Because
HPV is a virus, symptoms such as genital warts can be treated but not cured. The
average patient may need a few treatments to clear genital warts. With all treatments,
warts may recur.
Two
types of treatment (imiquimod and podofilox) are creams or gels that can be applied
by the patient at home. Other treatments (cryotherapy, podophyllin, TCA, and BCA)
freeze or burn off the warts with chemicals. These treatments must be applied
by a doctor. Treatments such as surgery and laser therapy must be performed by
a doctor who has experience with these techniques.
What
to Ask Your Provider about Treatments for Genital Warts
What
treatment(s) do you recommend for my case? Why? What are the benefits of treatment?
Does this treatment cause pain, scarring, or other bad side effects? How
long does this treatment take? Can I apply this treatment myself? How
much does this treatment cost? What kind of follow-up will be needed?
