Sexual Health Awareness and You

Modern society has adapted a very permissive view of sex that today's youth are more independent, expressive and liberated when it comes to sexual expression. In this high-tech culture where conventions do not necessarily become the rule, it is important to consider what lies ahead for you and for your loved ones, and how you can protect each other from getting sexually transmitted diseases.
Sexual health is not just the absence of the disease or its dysfunction and infirmities. It is a state of physical, emotional, psychological and social well-being with regards to one's sexuality. Addressing sexual health issues involves a complex web of factors such as attitude, behavior, genes, environment, and economy. It also deals with sexual health problems such as STD, HIV, pregnancy, abortion, infertility, cancer, and a wide range of sexual dysfunctions. Those who are in a relationship must not consider an infected partner as being unfaithful. One must learn to practice a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships and this can be achieved if the sexual rights of every individual is respected and protected.
As the cliché goes, “looks can be deceiving.” It's not easy to tell if the person beside you has STD, or other illnesses for that matter, just by the way that person looks and acts. There are STDs that are not accompanied by any obvious signs. Symptoms can be very subtle that the person infected may not even know it. Aside from your regular health check-up, it is very important that you should also take special attention in knowing your own body especially when you are healthy. So that if any changes take place such as skin infections or sores, as well as any unusual discharge or pain while urinating, it will be easier for you to recognize these signs and symptoms because you already know how your body is like when healthy.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are diseases caused by viruses, bacteria and parasites and can easily be transmitted through body contact during sex. There are at least 25 different sexually transmitted diseases which can be spread by sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex.
Sometimes, STDs take a long time to display any kind of symptoms. The following are some of the most common STDs that affect sexually active individuals: Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Bacterial Vaginosis, Crabs or Pubic Lice, Epididymitis, Genital Herpes, Genital Warts, Gut Infections, Hepatitis, Molluscum, Non-Specific Urethritis, Scabies, Syphilis, Thrush, Trichomonas Vaginosis, Balanitis.
Sexual health awareness is very important in detecting and treating STD to avoid serious infections which can lead to long-term or permanent damage. Untreated STD may cause infertility and can be passed on from a pregnant mother to her unborn child. STD can be passed onto sexual partners easily and can aid in the transmission of HIV.
Abstinence is the surest thing to avoid STD. But you don't have to be a killjoy just to be free of the dreaded STD. The practice of safe sex and sexual health awareness can greatly help in minimizing risk from STD. Always use condoms during sexual intercourse or dental dams for oral sex. Make sure to sanitize sex toys before and after use. Observe genital hygiene routines, as well as keep your hands clean at all times. Consult with your professional health care provider for sexual health advice on getting tested for STD.