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What is
an STD?
A Sexually
Transmitted Disease (STD) is a serious sometimes,
painful infection that can cause a lot of damage. Some STDs infect your sexual and reproductive organs. Others (HIV, Hepatitis B
and Syphilis) can cause general body infections
Community Intervention Peer
Health Education
Representatives
(C.I.P.H.E.R.) EDUCATION
CLASS!
STD Awareness Class.
How is an STD spread?
STDs can be spread during close sexual contact,
eg: vaginal,
anal, and oral sex. Other methods of infections (HIV & Hepatitis B) are also spread by contact with infected blood. Most STD germs need to live in warm and often moist areas
of the body, such as the mouth, anus, vagina or penis.
What should you do if you suspect you may have an STD?
If you think you have an STD, see a doctor right away. Don't
just think the STD will go away, it won't!! Most county health departments have an STD clinic, or you have
to see a private doctor (check your local listings for STD clinic near you, or see
our Health Centers listing to see which clinic is nearest you). You may feel embarrassed about seeing a doctor, remember this is the most effective way to be properly diagnosed and
treated.
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