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LIFESTYLE TIPS
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'Silent' STD rampant in U.S.
If you are sexually active, ask your health care professional for a chlamydia test, even if you feel fine. Chlamydia, a sexually transmitted bacterial disease, is so common that 50 percent of sexually active women have been infected by age 30. The bacteria often infect the cells of the cervix. If not treated with antibiotics, the infection can spread to the uterus or fallopian tubes, causing pelvic inflammatory disease, which can lead to chronic pain, infertility and ectopic pregnancy.
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Condoms may not prevent herpes
The consistent and correct use of latex condoms can help protect against sexually transmitted infections. However, condoms do not provide complete protection because the condom may not cover the herpes sore(s), and viral shedding may nevertheless occur. If either you or your partner have genital herpes, it's best to abstain from sex when herpes signs or symptoms are present and to use latex condoms between outbreaks.
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Multiple factors can lead to sexual dysfunction
If you are having persistent sexual difficulties, such as diminished sex drive, painful intercourse, or inability to achieve orgasm, the cause could be physical, psychological, social, medication-induced, or any combination thereof. For example, acute or chronic diseases, including cancer and diabetes; hormonal changes; medications, including certain antidepressants, oral contraceptives and high blood pressure pills; alcohol and illicit drug abuse; stress or anxiety; and early sexual trauma, all can affect sexual functioning. Medical and psychological evaluations may both be necessary to pinpoint the source of your problem and determine an effective treatment.
Talking out your sexual problems
If physical causes of your sexual dysfunction have been ruled out or treated and you are still having problems, consider talk therapy with a psychotherapist who specializes in couples therapy. You can go alone or with your partner, and don't let embarrassment stop you; most of these mental-health professionals are used to talking to patients about their sexual lives. In therapy, you may gain a better understanding of relationship dynamics and background issues that may be influencing what happens in the bedroom.
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Human papillomavirus, with or without warts
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common causes of sexually transmitted disease (STD) in the world, with approximately 6.2 million new cases reported annually. At least 20 million Americans are already infected with HPV. Some but not all people with sexually transmitted HPV develop genital warts. About 30 types of HPV spread through sexual contact. Some types of HPV that cause genital infections can also cause cervical cancer and other genital cancers. There are several treatments for genital warts, including imiquimod (Aldara), an immune response cream that is applied to affected area. Today, there is also a vaccine available to prevent HPV infection in women. However, it should be given before a girl becomes sexually active.
