STDs are sexually transmitted diseases. These are called venereal diseases (VD) till 1990s. These are also called STIs, sexually transmitted infections.

Sexually transmitted diseases are infections that can be transferred through sexual contact, including vaginal intercourse, oral sex and anal sex. Heterosexuals and homosexuals are affected by sexually transmitted diseases.

There are more than 25 diseases which are transmitted through sexual activity. The most common STDs include:

• HIV/AIDS
• Bacterial vaginosis
• Genital herpes
• Chlamydia
• Candidiasis or yeast infection
• Gonorrhea
• Syphilis
• Human papillomavirus
• Trichomoniasis
• Hepatitis B

A person may be infected without symptoms and may potentially others. When the drug addicts use the same needles the possibility of the infection is there. In all the cases where body fluids are transferred one body to another the chance of infection is always there. This is applicable to operations, child birth and even breastfeeding.

Not all STDs could be cured. Often the women show no symptoms and if not treated this may lead to infertility. I need not tell anything about the danger of HIV/AIDS.

The best way to prevent STDs is to prevent sexual contact with infected persons. Use of condom is the most effective method to prevent STDs. Oral contraceptives do not prevent STDs. Persons who change their partners often and homosexuals must use condom always.