Sexually transmitted diseases and infections are unfortunately a common problem especially in the teen population. There are many myths about the "type" of people who get them, signs and symptoms, and various ways of avoidance. First of all, STD's do not discriminate! Anyone is susceptible to them, if you are not properly protecting yourself. While it is true that lower income populations are put at higher risk for developing sexually transmitted diseases, they are not only confined to that population. Also, just because you or your partner are not displaying any classic signs and symptoms, does not mean you are not infected; many people do not show any symptoms at all! Lastly, it is a very common myth to believe that it is possible to avoid an STD by practicing oral or anal sex, however, keep in mind that if any kind of sex is involved, you are still susceptible to STD development.
Education is the best way to protect yourself. Learning about how to prevent STD's, knowing the signs and symptoms (if displayed), community resources, and how to keep yourself protected from not only sexually transmitted diseases, but also unplanned pregnancy. The best way to provide not only yourself, but also your partner from STDs is simply by using a condom.
The two most prevalent STDs in the teen population are gonorrhea and chlamydia. Gonorrhea is a problem seen frequently among the male population;gonorrhea's symptoms if noticed includes:
In a perfect world, teens would feel open to discussing these topics with their parents. However, sometimes you might feel embarrassed or ashamed; your parent might not understand. While we encourage you to feel open to going to your parent first, we understand that your health is more important. Resources such as Hogg middle school, and Baylor Teen Health Clinic offer 100% confidentiality for situations such as this. Anyone as young as 13 are welcomed for free testing and treatments. Condoms are given upon request and education and prevention is offered for your benefit. These programs are put in place to help you, your safety, health, and confidentiality are the number one priority for these clinics; utilize them!
Education is the best way to protect yourself. Learning about how to prevent STD's, knowing the signs and symptoms (if displayed), community resources, and how to keep yourself protected from not only sexually transmitted diseases, but also unplanned pregnancy. The best way to provide not only yourself, but also your partner from STDs is simply by using a condom.
The two most prevalent STDs in the teen population are gonorrhea and chlamydia. Gonorrhea is a problem seen frequently among the male population;gonorrhea's symptoms if noticed includes:
- A burning sensation during urination
- Yellowish-white discharge from the vagina or the tip of the penis
- And girls may have bleeding between cycles
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Pain during urination
- Bleeding between menstrual cycles-girls
- Pain during sexual intercourse-girls
- Pain in your lower abdomen-girls
- Muscle aches
- Mild fever
- Headache
- Unusual discharge from the penis-guys
- Itching or burning around the penis-guys
- Sometimes the testicles may become swollen
In a perfect world, teens would feel open to discussing these topics with their parents. However, sometimes you might feel embarrassed or ashamed; your parent might not understand. While we encourage you to feel open to going to your parent first, we understand that your health is more important. Resources such as Hogg middle school, and Baylor Teen Health Clinic offer 100% confidentiality for situations such as this. Anyone as young as 13 are welcomed for free testing and treatments. Condoms are given upon request and education and prevention is offered for your benefit. These programs are put in place to help you, your safety, health, and confidentiality are the number one priority for these clinics; utilize them!