The weather is getting warmer, meaning everyone is starting to show a lot more skin, tempting others with sexual desires.

Love and attraction are in the air, but you should be aware of the risks and take proper precautions to avoid those unwanted bumps and bugs.  

According to WebMD, over 50% of sexually active young adults develop a sexually         transmitted disease before the age of 25.

So, it is important to know what diseases are out there, their symptoms, and methods of getting tested.  

Herpes comes in two forms: Type I and Type II.  While those painful and stubborn cold sores that infect the lip region are caused by HSV-1 (Herpes Simplex Virus 1) and can be spread by kissing, genital herpes typically occur in the pubic area and are caused by HSV-2 after sexual intercourse or direct contact with a herpes sore.  

Though there is no cure for either herpes Type 1 or 2, they generally can be managed by drug treatments, clearing up  outbreaks and reducing        symptoms more quickly.  

Common among college students, Chlamydia is  characterized by burning and itching sensations in the male and female genitalia, as well as painful urination.  If left untreated, it can cause infertility. However, it is easily treated with antibiotics.  

Gonorrhea, otherwise known as “The Clap,” is very common among men and women and can also lead to infertility if left untreated.  

Common symptoms include: discharge from male and female genitalia, burning during urination, and possible skin rashes.  The infection can easily be stopped with antibiotics.  

Moral of the story, everyone who is sexually active should be tested for STDs regularly. Set up an appointment with the Health and Counseling Center as soon as possible.

The best ways to prevent STDs, aside from monogamous relationships or abstinence, are by the use of condoms and open communication with sexual   partners about their sexual       history.

Now that you’re aware of the consequences, next time you pick up a hottie at the bars, be less concerned with what they study, but more concerned with what they might carry.

 

Nick Pisciottia is a molecular biology major who is passionate about exercise programs and diets to better his health. He plans on attending medical school upon graduating from DU next spring.