Adam Saaks in Graz, Austria 080707

Sexual Health: Guarding Against Infection Sex can be pleasurable, but it can also be risky. Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can be uncomfortable or painful; they can have severe, long-term effects that include the loss of fertility and have the potential to be life-threatening. Learning about sexual health means learning about STDs: STD identification. Learn about the signs and symptoms of STDs as well as the consequences of infection. Prevention. Taking steps to prevent the spread of STDs protects your health and the health of others. STD testing. STD testing is a crucial part of your sexual health plan. Finding out whether you have an STD enables you to start treating the infection and protecting your sexual partners. Living with an STD. Some STDs will be with you for life, such as hepatitis, herpes, and HIV/AIDS. For people living with STDs, sexual health encompasses coping with these infec