 Sexually transmitted infections-infections that are spread from person to person through sexual contact.  Knowing the causes and symptoms of STIs can help keep you safe.  Go over 12.6 on page 346.

 Chlamydia-a bacterial STI that may affect the reproductive organs, urethra and anus.  Symptoms are not present in many cases but can include a genital discharge and a burning sensation during urination.  If left untreated Chlamydia can cause pelvic pain, infertility and other infections.  Chlamydia can be treated with antibiotics.

 Genital warts-growths or bumps in the genital area caused by certain types of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).  Most common STI in the US.  People often pass it on to others because symptoms do not develop until long after they have been exposed.  There is no cure, but can be treated.  Has been linked to cervical cancer.

Genital herpes-a viral STI that produces painful blisters in the genital area. – The virus may remain inactive in the body causing no symptoms. – Some people have periodic outbreaks of blisters or sores. – Herpes can be transmitted to others whether or not symptoms are present. – There is no cure but medicine can relieve symptoms.

 Gonorrhea-a bacterial STI that affects the mucous membranes of the body, particularly in the genital area.  Symptoms include a thick, yellow discharge from the genitals and burning during urination.  If left untreated it can cause sterility in men and infertility in women.  Can be treated with antibiotics.

 Syphilis-a bacterial STI that can affect many parts of the body.  Symptoms vary but could be a painless sore at the site where infection entered the body and swollen lymph glands in the genital area.  If left untreated syphilis may cause brain damage, heart disease, and death.  If treated early syphilis can be cured with antibiotics.

 Hepatitis B-a liver disease that can be transmitted through sexual contact.  It is the only STI that there is a vaccine available.

Human immunodeficiency virus-is the virus that causes AIDS Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome-a deadly disease that interferes with the body’s ability to fight infection. – May not show any signs for a long time. 10 years. – During that time the virus damages the immune system. – Eventually the body is too weak to fight infections and diseases.

 Having any form of sexual intercourse with an infected person.  HIV circulates in the bloodstream and body fluids such as semen and vaginal fluid.  Avoiding sexual intercourse is the only sure way to protect yourself against this method of transmission.

 Using a contaminated needle.  A drop of blood left on a needle can transmit the virus.  To protect yourself  Avoid injecting drugs.  Be sure that any procedure involving needles or blood is performed by a health care professional.

 Other modes of transmission.  Blood transfusions.  Vary rare, most infections occurred before  Birth, from mother to child.  Breast feeding after birth.

HIV is not spread by – Swimming in the same pool – Sharing utensils – Through the air – Donating blood – Hugging/shaking hands – Bites from insects – Using same clothes, towel, sports equipment – Using same phone, shower, toilet, drinking fountain

Combinations of powerful drugs can dramatically reduce HIV levels in the blood and prolong the life expectancy of HIV infected patients. Some drugs can help control infections in people with AIDS. – These drugs have serious side effects and don’t work for everyone. – They are also very expensive.

The only sure way to protect your self from the consequences of sexual activity is abstinence. – Benefits of abstinence Pregnancy and STIs Respect for yourself Enjoy being young Focus on long-term goals Make sure that relationship is built on shared interest and mutual trust rather than sexual attraction.