How to Know if You Have an STD

The statistics are in. More and more people are having sexual relations at a younger age. Directly corresponding with this statistic is the age at which females are becoming pregnant and giving birth, which is at an all-time high. What many people may not realize is that every time you have sex with another person, even if you use protection, you are still at great risk of contracting a sexually-transmitted disease (STD). If you think that you may have an STD, follow these steps to gain understanding and to seek treatment.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Personal time
• Ability to see a doctor

How to Know if you Have an STD

1. Evaluate your condition. Most often STD's will show signs of development in the genitals. Why do you think that you have one? Are there reds spots, warts, cysts or blisters? Is it painful when you urinate? Are you having discharge (females) and don’t know why? Did someone you have sex with contact you because they contracted an STD? All of these are classic signs that you may have contracted a STD.
2. Research the symptoms. So you know better about what you may have, do some research on the web. You will easily be able to find medical photos of STD's (not for the weak of heart)--and perhaps even be able to figure out what you may have.
3. Get tested. This is the surest way to know. Stop putting it off. Get tested! Doctors advise that in order to maintain good sexual health you must get tested at least once per year.
4. Inform past sexual partners. This is the hardest and most difficult part if you have been diagnosed with an STD. You owe it to all that you have had sexual relations with to inform them that they may be at risk as well.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are unsure of whether or not you have an STD, the best way to know for sure is to get tested.
• Never self-diagnose an STD; rely upon the advice of a trained medical professional.