Question: How Do I Know If I Have an STD?
A lot of gay teens wonder, "How do I know if I have an STD?" Here are some quick facts to help you determine if you should be concerned.
Answer:
Wondering if you might have an STD? You're not alone. A lot of teens worry about this. Often there is cause for concern. But sometimes teens worry even if they haven't actually done things that put them at risk!.
Here are some things gay teens should know about STD's:
- You can't get an STD out of thin air. You can only contract one from another person.
- Masturbating will not give you an STD.
- Some STD's have symptoms. Others do not.
- Vaginal, anal and oral sex can all transmit STDs.
- The only way to know for sure that you have an STD is to get tested by a health care provider.
- Many STDs can be treated and cured, and treatment for all STD's, including HIV, is most effective when the infection is caught early.
- Teens can usually get confidential testing and treatment for STDs.
As a gay teen you probably have a lot on your mind. Hopefully, this information can help you decide if an STD is something you should be worried about of if that is a worry you can check off your list.
