Treatment Options

Helping Yourself

The surest way to avoid contracting sexually transmitted infections is to abstain from sexual intercourse or to be in a long-term monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and is known to be uninfected. For persons whose sexual behavior places them at risk for STIs, you can make use of strategies to help prevent STDs:

• Limit the number of sexual partners and carefully choose your sexual partners
• Use barrier contraception (latex condoms, vaginal contraceptive sponges, diaphragms or spermicides) - using more than one barrier method is best
• Wear gloves if touching open lesions, and cover lesions up as necessary and wash your hands frequently to prevent further spread.

• If you think you are infected, avoid sexual contact and see a healthcare provider immediately
• Also, be sure to get regular check-ups and examinations from your healthcare provider and request to be tested for STIs at each check-up. Remember that some STIs may not cause symptoms. If you get tested regularly, you will have a better chance of detecting an STI and get treated more quickly to avoid potential complications such as infertility. If you are pregnant with a suspected STI then you should contact a health care provider immediately.

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Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not intended to diagnose a health condition, but it can be used as a guide to help you decide if you should seek professional treatment or to help you learn more about your condition once it has been diagnosed.