FAQs

My partner just got tested and found out that they have a sexually transmitted disease (STD). I’m upset and scared. I’m not sure how to react. Could I have an STD? Should I get tested?

It’s really great that your partner was so open and honest about his or her STD testing results. It’s often hard…

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What if my partner doesn’t want to use condoms?

Many people use the motto: “Safer sex or no sex!” While this can be the most protective way to look at using condoms,…

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What is an internal condom (also known as a “female condom”) and how does it work?

An internal  condom is a pouch made of nitrile that is worn internally—inside of the vagina during vaginal sex or inside…

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Can I get a sexually transmitted disease (STD), including HIV, from kissing?

Herpes is the only STD that can be passed through kissing. This usually happens when one person has a sore on or around…

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Do I need to use protection during oral sex?

Yes. Although the chance of getting or giving a sexually transmitted disease (STD) during oral sex is less likely than…

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What is human papillomavirus (HPV)? Is it the same thing as genital warts?

HPV (human papillomavirus) is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) that is caused by a virus. According to the Centers…

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I’ve heard chlamydia and gonorrhea are curable with antibiotics, so what’s the big deal if I get it?

Chlamydia and gonorrhea are common, curable infections caused by bacteria. But just because they are common and curable…

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What are the different kinds of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?

There are three different kinds of STDs: bacterial, viral and parasitic. Bacterial infections are caused by bacteria.…

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What is trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis (called trich for short) is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) that is caused by a parasitic protozoa…

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What is HIV and how do you get it?

HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. HIV is a viral infection that can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency…

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What is herpes?

Genital and oral herpes are caused by a virus called herpes simplex virus (HSV). The virus comes in two strains (types)…

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If my partner and I are both virgins, is there any way we could have a sexually transmitted disease (STD)?

If neither of you has had any kind of sex, then it’s unlikely. But the tricky part is defining “virgin” and “sex.”…

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How can you avoid getting a sexually transmitted disease (STD)?

The most effective way to avoid getting an STD is to “abstain from” (avoid) sexual touching below the waist, such…

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I just found out that I have a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Does this mean I should never have sex again? What do I tell my partner?

No, it does not mean you should never have sex again. It does mean, however, that you should talk about your status to…

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I told my partner that I have a sexually transmitted disease (STD) and they broke up with me. What can I do to make sure this doesn’t happen again?

Good for you for being honest and telling your partner that you have an STD. It can be a scary thing to do, and even if…

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I am taking medicine for my sexually transmitted disease (STD). Is it OK to have sex?

You should always wait until you have finished all of your medication for any curable STD (such as chlamydia and gonorrhea)…

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