Are You Sexually Active? 4 Steps To Take To Treat An STD
Posted on: 18 October 2019
High school is an exciting time. If you're like a lot of teens your age, it might be a time when your sexual activity begins. While that can also be an exciting time, it can also lead to unwanted experiences, such as sexually-transmitted diseases; or STDs. If you suspect that you have an STD, you need to take action right away. If you're not sure what to do, here are some instructions that will help you take the right steps.
Talk to Your Doctor
If you suspect that you have an STD, it's crucial that you talk to a doctor right away. If you're worried that your parents will find out, you can go to a health department in your community. You can also talk to your school nurse. They can help you find the help you need. If you're not sure what symptoms you should be looking for, they include:
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Unusual discharge from vagina or penis
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Warts or sores on the genitals
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Painful or frequent urination
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Abnormal vaginal odors
If you have any of the symptoms described above, contact a doctor as soon as possible.
Follow Through With Treatment
If you're diagnosed with an STD, it's important that you follow through with the treatment plan, which should include finishing any medication that your doctor will prescribe for you. Following through with the treatment will help ensure that the STD is eliminated, and will reduce the risk of needing a return visit. If you continue to experience symptoms once the treatment ends, be sure to let your doctor know. You may require additional treatment.
Let Your Partner Know
If your doctor has diagnosed you with an STD, you need to let your partner know. They'll need to begin treatment as soon as possible. If you have more than one sexual partner, it's important that you notify each one of them. Failure to let your partners know can cause serious health problems for them. Not only that, but it increases the risk that the STD will be passed on to others.
Schedule a Retest
Once you complete treatment for your STD, you'll need to schedule an appointment for a retest in a few months. This is particularly important if you remain sexually active. STDs can return, especially when you have unprotected sex.
Don't let an STD negatively affect your life. If you suspect that you have an STD and want to learn more about STD treatments, visit a doctor or community health care center right away.
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