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STDs are on the rise among gay men, particularly in larger cities. Too many gay men are uninformed about the risk of STDs, or they choose to disregard the risk of transmission. The consistent and correct use of condoms, and fewer sex partners, will result in less risk of being infected with Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Hepatitis, Herpes, HIV, HPV (warts), Syphilis, and other diseases. Often these STDs do not have immediate symptoms, and in some cases, you may never know that you have contracted an STD. It is vitally important that all gay men should be tested for STDs every three to six months!
The website for the San Francisco City Clinic, which is part of the San Francisco Department of Public Health, is an excellent resource for gay men in learning more about STDs, how to prevent their transmission, and how these diseases are treated » San Francisco City Clinic. Most STDs are easily cured and should not go undetected and untreated! The STD Risk Chart, provided by the SF City Clinic tells you about sexual activities and the risk of contracting STDs. Go to » STD risk charts for comprehensive information!
You should know that the risk of HIV transmission increases if you are infected with most STDs. This is because STD transmission often means that your sexual activity has not been sufficiently safe. Also, because your immune system is compromised while you are infected with most STDs, you have a greater chance of the HIV virus taking hold in your body, if you come in contact with HIV infected semen or blood.
It is smart to be certain you are free of STDs. That will ensure that you and your sex partners are helping to minimize the risks associated with your sex lives and infection from HIV / AIDS and STDs!
Important Links:
» San Francisco City Clinic
» STD risk charts
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