But regardless the taboo, STD’s can affect people of any age and background. But if you are sexually active, then awareness is your key to preventing getting an STD. The terms ‘sexually active’ are not loosely used and it means that if you have sex s— oral, anal or vaginal intercourse and genital touching — you can get an STD.

And that’s why we are here to educate and inform you. We have listed for you the most common forms of STDs and ways you can prevent them.

Chlamydia

Affects: Both men and women.

A bacterial infection in the genital track, chlamydia can be difficlut to detect because it shows no signs in the beginning. By the time you do notice, usually one to three weeks have passed. Some of the symptoms of Chlamydia are:

• Painful urination
• Testicular pain in men
• Pain during sexual intercourse in women
• Vaginal discharge in women
• Discharge from the penis in men
• Bleeding between periods in women

Worst case scenario: If left untreated in women. a chlamydia infection can cause a type of infection called the Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). It affects the  the reproductive system like the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes.

Gonorrhea

Affects: Both men and women

Also known as “the Clap” it is caused by certain type of bacterial Gonorrhea. Most often than not, it infects the vagina or penis, but in some cases can affect the eyes, throat and rectum as well.  Some of the symptoms and signs of gonorrhea include:

• Thick, cloudy or bloody discharge from the penis or vagina
• Pain or burning sensation when urinating
• Heavy menstrual bleeding or bleeding between periods
• Painful, swollen testicles
• Painful bowel movements
• Anal itching

Worst case scenario:  If left untreated in a man, Gonorrhea can damage the tunes which carry the sperm.

Herpes

Affects: Both men and women

 The most common form of STD, herpes causes painful sores in the mouth and the genital areas. Herpes can be transmitted by any skin to skin touching and  oral herpes can be passed from the mouth to the genital area during oral sex.  Some other symptoms of herpes are:

• Small red bumps, blisters or open sores in the genital, anal and around areas.
• Itching or pain around the genital area, buttocks and inner thighs.

Worst case scenario:  Herpes infection increases the risk of getting HIV and pregnant women can pass herpes on to their unborn child which could put them at danger.

Crabs

Affects: Both men and women

One of the most notorious STD, crabs gives you an itchy and creepy sensation in your genitals. Even though crabs are transmitted through a sex, you can also get it from contaminated towels and sheets. Symptoms include:

• Itching in the genitals or anus
• Mild fever
• Feeling low and irritable
• Small lice in the public hair.

There you have it; the most common forms of STD’s and its causes. Remember that they are all treatable and if you notice any symptoms, go and see the doctor immediately.