STDs and Adolescents

One of the most critical points that will undoubtedly affect teens now and in the future is the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Almost 15.5 million people contract one of these diseases every year and two-thirds of them are under the age of 25. (NIAID, 1998) Many people know about names of different types of STDs, but they are not sure what symptoms, treatments, and complications are associated with each different disease. Popular beliefs about STDs are probably the reason that they are so widespread. Here are some common myths about sex and STDs:
Ÿ STDs cannot be transmitted through oral sex.
Ÿ HIV only affects the homosexual population.
Ÿ Condoms can protect against all diseases.
Ÿ Birth control pills protect against STDs.
Ÿ If symptoms disappear so does the disease.
Unfortunately most people don’t learn the truth about STDs until they have already contracted one. Chlamydia, syphilis, gonorrhea, and human papillomavirus are four ...