Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs/STIs) are among some the most preventable types of infection. Abstinence is the most reliable way to avoid infection. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Hepatitis B vaccines exist, and can prevent disease. Tests can be done to detect abnormalities and disease. Contact your medical provider for additional information regarding vaccines, screening, and tests. To locate a provider in your area, visit
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HPV (Human Papillomavirus), is a common virus that can lead to 6 types of cancer later in life. HPV is so common that almost all people will get at least one type of HPV at some time in their lives. You can get HPV by having vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the virus. Most HPV infections (9 out of 10) go away on their own within two years, but certain types can cause cancer. Current
recommendations encourage youth to get two doses of HPV vaccine at ages 11-12. The HPV vaccine is most effective if given before exposure.
Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B Virus (HBV). Hepatitis B is spread through sexual contact, sharing needles, syringes, or other drug-injection equipment, or from mother to baby during birth. Sometimes newly infected people have no symptoms. Symptoms include fatigue, poor appetite, stomach pain, nausea, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). For some it can become a long-term infection that can lead to life-threatening health problems like cirrhosis or liver cancer. Risk for chronic infection is related to the age at infection: about 90% of infants with HBV will develop chronic infection but only 2% - 6% of people who get Hepatitis B as adults become chronically infected. The best way to prevent hepatitis B is to get immunized.
Additional Infections
Vaginal candidiasis (yeast infection) and
bacterial vaginosis (BV) can be mistaken for STDs/STIs and are two of the most common infections seen in women. Changes in the vagina or the overgrowth of certain bacteria can cause infection. Yeast infection and BV may present with symptoms or there may be no symptoms at all. Having BV can increase your chances of getting an STD.