Here are some tips for young people to protect themselves from STDs/HIV.
“The data presented in a recent report indicate that many young persons in the United States engage in sexual risk behavior and experience negative reproduce outcomes,” the CDC wrote in its weekly report on death and disease. The rate of AIDS diagnoses for boys aged 15 to 19 years has nearly doubled in the past 10 years, and rates of syphilis are also up.
- Abstaining from sex is the only sure way to avoid HIV infection, including other sexually transmitted disease (STDs) and pregnancy. Remember that if you are not sure of about your partner, yourself, or your relationship, your safest choice is not to have sex.
- Discover other ways to show affection without having sex. These include communicating feeling through talking and actions—going to movies, shopping at malls, buying flowers, enjoying time together-studying, etc.
- Exploring sexual activities other than intercourse as a way to show affection. These include kissing, hugging, touching, massage, fantasizing, etc.
- Don’t let drinking or other drug use change your mind about risking HIV infection. Make decisions while you are sober and stick to them.
- Make decisions with your partner before you are sexually involved, since both partners are responsible for preventing infection. If you decide to have sex, always use a latex condom.
- Don’t shoot drug; sharing needles (including ear piercing, tattooing) is a dangerous easy way to pass HIV. If you are currently shooting drugs and need help, call and check the phone book under “Drug Abuse” or call National Institute on Drug Abuse Hotline: 1-800-662-4347
- Find out more information about STDS/HIV/AIDS by talking with your parents, physician, school nurse, health teacher or by contacting: US Public Health Services Hotline (1-800-458-5231). There is plenty of information about STDs on this website. If you have been exposed and you are worried, don’t wait , visit your doctor or clinic for HIV testing which is confidential or anonymous. Early detection and treatment can save your life.
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Topics Covered: Health Advice, STDs
