A new study shows that one in four teen age girls are reported to have a sexually transmitted disease (STD). The study reported by WebMD revealed that 24.1% of girls between the ages of 14 and 19 tested positive for one of five of the most common sexually transmitted infections, including human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes simplex virus type 2, and chlamydia. The study also found that many girls were infected after their first sexual encounter.
Another study recently released by the CDC and also reported by WebMD showed that more than 1.2 million cases have been officially reported, the largest number of cases for any of the diseases that must be reported to the CDC. Chlamydia, one of the most common STDs, is found three times more often in women than men and eight times more in African-Americans.
Sexual health is a topic many parents unfortunately avoid with their teens. In light of this health crisis parents, doctors and educators need to step up and educate America's youth. Sexually active teens and young women should have regular pap smears and see a doctor at the first sign of any symptoms.
If untreated, these diseased can lead to pelvic inflammation disease and even infertility. Many women don't even have symptoms until they develop complications from them, often leaving irreversible results.
Some STD's are easily treated by antibiotics if caught early, others have no cure. Condoms offer some protection but the best and sure fire prevention is abstinence. Today's society may not like that option but at any rate, we have to start educating our youth about these diseases. Let's start today.
For a list STD's and their symptoms click here.
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