Sexually Transmitted Diseases (also called STDs) are infections that can be transferred from one person to another through sexual contact. Adolescents and young adults who are between 15 and 24 years are at the greatest risk for acquiring an STD.

STDs can have severe consequences, especially in women, if not treated, which is why it is so important to go for STD testing. Some STDs can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, which can cause infertility, while others may even be serious. STDs can be prevented by refraining from sexual activity, and by using some contraceptive devices, such as condoms. The following are few types of STDs.

Human Papilloma Virus (HPV): The human papilloma virus is thought to be one of the main causes of cervical cancer. It has also been associated with other types of cancers of the female reproductive system. While HPV can be treated to reduce the signs and symptoms, there is no cure for this virus at present.

Herpes Virus: Herpes is another STD that has no cure presently. However, treatment is available and there are a many things you can do at home to help relieve your genital herpes. Herpes Virus symptoms include blisters or sores that periodically break out on the genitals.

Hepatitis: Although there is no cure for those already infected, there exists Hepatitis B (HBV) vaccine to prevent the spread of this infection. Many are asymptomatic, however those who do suffer from Hepatitis B symptoms may have many objectionable discomforts. Even though there is a possibility that the infection will clear up on its own, some people suffer from chronic infections for several years.

HIV/AIDS: HIV is the main STD that many people are worried about. While new ways of treating this infection can considerably prolong an infected person's life, for far too many people this infection eventually progresses to AIDS and, ultimately, death. Many people may not realize they are infected, as the HIV is often asymptomatic for the first few years. HIV testing is the best way to know if you are infected.

Syphilis: Throughout history, the cases of syphilis have been recorded. While this STD has not always been effectively dealt with at present, syphilis can easily be treated and cured. However, as history has shown, without treatment, syphilis symptoms can progress and affect the nervous system and brain leading to dementia and may sometimes even lead to death.

Trichomoniasis: Trichomoniasis is one of the common curable STDs out there. However, symptoms of Trichomoniasis may be mistaken for a yeast infection causing women to use the wrong type of treatment for her vaginal discharge.

Common Infections: Chlamydia and gonorrhea generally infect a person at the same time. Although the symptoms of chlamydia are very different from gonorrhea symptoms, it is not unusual for a person to be asymptomatic. If you are testing for chlamydia, it may be a good to also test for gonorrhea at the same time. Both STDs can be cured but can also damage your reproductive system if left untreated.

Rare Infections: Some STDs, like granuloma inguinale and chancroid, are not so well known in North America, but that does not mean you are not at risk of contracting these infections. Other less discussed issues about STDs include nongonococcal urethritis, molluscum contagiosum, and lymphogranuloma venereum.