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Let’s Talk About STDs!

STDs are very common and often show no symptoms. The only way to know is to get tested! All STDs are treatable, and many are curable.

Five Things to Know About STDs

Five things you need to know about STDs (sexually transmitted diseases). Learn how to know for sure you are being tested for STDs and more!

What about other STDs?

Are all those letters and acronyms leaving you confused? Dr. Leandro Mena clears things up by sharing all the sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) gay men should be tested for and why.

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is one of the most common STDs. Often there are no symptoms. Once diagnosed, it is easily cured with antibiotics.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is a common STD, especially among teens and people in their 20s. Sometimes called “the clap” or “the drip.” Gonorrhea may not show symptoms. Once diagnosed, it is easily cured with antibiotics.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that can cause liver disease. About half of people with hepatitis B do not experience any symptoms. There is no cure, but a vaccine is available to protect against infection.

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that affects the liver. Most people do not experience any symptoms. Hepatitis C is cured with prescription medication.

Herpes

Herpes is a very common STD. It can cause sores on the genitals and/or mouth. There is no cure for herpes, but prescription medication can ease symptoms and lower the chances of passing the virus to others.

HIV/AIDS

HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system and can lead to AIDS, a clinical diagnosis that indicates an advanced stage of HIV. HIV may not show symptoms initially. Testing is recommended as a part of routine healthcare.

HPV (Human Papillomavirus)

HPV is the most common STD with an estimated 14 million new cases in the U.S. each year. There are more than 150 different types of HPV. The HPV vaccine protects against certain types that are associated with genital warts and cervical cancer.

Syphilis

Syphilis is a common STD. It often does not show any symptoms. Left untreated, it can cause permanent damage, like blindness or paralysis. Once diagnosed, it is easily cured with antibiotics.

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a very common STD. Sometimes called “trich” for short. It often does not show any symptoms. Once diagnosed, it is easily cured with antibiotics.

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