HTW # 105: April is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) awareness month. STDs are acquired through sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Every year around 20 million new sexually transmitted infections occur in the United States and about half of those happen with young people under age 25. STDs can be prevented. Use condoms correctly every time you have anal, vaginal and oral sex. This one simple thing is very effective in reducing the spread of STDs. Other things to do to decrease STDs are limiting sexual partners, getting vaccinations for Hepatitis B and Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), and mutual monogamy. Many sexually transmitted infections are treatable and most can be cured. If you have any STDs, be sure to reach out to your healthcare provider and get early help.

Learn more about sexually transmitted diseases through CDC.

Watch CDC videos on STD.

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