1. What Are Sexually Transmitted Diseases? 20.2

2. Objectives Describe why sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are said to be a “silent epidemic”. Identify why teenagers are particularly at risk for being infected with STDs. List steps you can take to prevent the spread of STDs.

3. Key Terms Epidemic – the occurrence of more cases of a disease than expected Asymptomatic – shoeing no signs of a disease or disorder even though an infection or disease is present

4. Not Me! Each year about 15 million Americans are infected with an STD. Teens make up only 8% of the U.S. population About 25% of all new cases of STDs occur in teens between 15 – 19.

5. STDs: The Silent Epidemic Many STDs are asymptomatic STDs spread because carrier is asymptomatic Some STDs can only be discovered through lab tests Some symptoms do not appear for years in the carrier “Silent epidemic” people don’t talk about it & often don’t seek treatment.

6. STDs Are Serious STDs can cause problems years after infection If untreated, can cause infertility STDs can cause serious illness or death People who are sexually active should undergo regular testing for STDs.

7. STDs and Teens 1/10 teens is infected with an STC 1/5 Sexually active teens has an STD

8. Risky Behaviors Being sexually active Having more than one sexual partner Having a sexual partner who has had multiple sexual partners Using alcohol or drugs

9. Abstinence Most effective way to protect yourself from STDs is to remain abstinent before marriage and to marry someone who has also been abstinent and is uninfected

10. Why Female Teens At Higher Risk For Catching STDs Females have large areas of mucous membranes that can be exposed to infectious particles During sexual intercourse, females receive a larger volume of potentially infected body fluid than males The cells of the teen cervix is more susceptible to infection than the cells of an adult cervix.

11. Preventing STDs Practice Abstinence Stay away from alcohol & drugs Respect yourself Learn the facts about STDs & use those facts to make good decisions Choose friends who influence you in a positive way Get plenty of rest Go out as a group Be aware of your emotions