.
Introduction:
Immature teenagers who are unaware of the safety and protection that should be exercised while having sex are at high risk of catching STIs. As the child crosses the border of 12 years and steps into its 13th year, several hormones are secreted by different body glands.
The glandular secretions bring changes in the child's primary and secondary sexual characters. Hence suddenly, the teenager starts becoming more and more interested in sex and gets more attracted to the opposite gender.
After having the first period or wet dream, the urge to have sex increases. But what about the preventive measures against STDs?
Young ones don't have any concept that they can fall into a pit of serious trouble while becoming interested in sex. Hence this post will cover the ways of preventing teens from STDs. Furthermore, it will guide the significance of sexual health tests in acquiring an STD.
What is an STD?
STDs, short for sexually transmitted diseases, are diseases caused by either bacteria, viruses, or parasites. They are generally transferred via bodily fluids, and therefore can be passed from one person to another during sex, including oral and other forms of sex for some STIs.
These pathogens may reside inside the genitals, on the surface, or in the pubic hair. The root cause of acquiring any of these is sexual contact without protection.
What are the Most Common STDs?
Every pathogen shows various signs and symptoms which are specific to it. Such characteristics are called pathognomonic symptoms.
Before performing a sexual health test, the doctor observes these signs and then prescribes the test. Following are the significant STDs that are not only threatening the life of adults but also teenagers:
·AIDS
·Syphilis
·Gonorrhea
·Chlamydia
·HPV
·HSV-2
·HBV
What are the Ways to Prevent STDs in Teenagers?
You might have heard that prevention is always better than curing a disease. Hence, here are some preventive measures that can help keep teenagers safe from STDs and enhance their sexual health.
Use of Condom:
Always remember to use condoms while making love with your partner, especially if it is the first time. Most sexually transmitted infections don't show any signs or symptoms at the initial stages. Hence it might be challenging to find out if they are suffering from an illness.
It would be best if males use latex and females use polyurethane condoms to protect their genital organs. Call your doctor in case of any symptoms after sex, like rashes or blisters. Discuss the matter and ask him to prescribe a sexual health test.
Avoid Making Sexual Contact:
If you or your partner doubt infection, it's better to wait until you both get tested. A positive person can spread the disease to a healthy one.
Prophylactic Measures:
There are medicines and vaccines available for many sexually transmitted diseases. For example, the immunization of hepatitis B is available on the market. It will help you generate the protective antibody titer and keep the teenager protected.
Similarly, a diverse range of antibiotics can tackle the Neisseria gonorrhoeae, or gonorrhea as it is more commonly known.
Conclusion
Some steps should be taken wisely for long-term safety. For example, if the young ones get the infection at an early age, it will cause adverse effects on their sexual health in the long run. Hence adopting preventive measures is the best option to keep everyone safe.
