Before having sex for the first time, it is important to understand why unprotected sex is simply not worth the risk through learning about all the different sexually transmitted infections (STIs), some of which are currently untreatable. Parents may find Sexually Transmitted Infections - The Essential Guide a useful tool to help approach the subject of contraception or sexual health with their teen.
Sexually Transmitted Infections – Overview
Author Nicolette Heaton-Harris has much experience in this area, having also written Teenage Pregnancy - The Essential Guide and previously worked as pregnancy editor for BellaOnline.com. This easy to follow, very readable health guide, provides essential information on the following sexually transmitted infections:
- chlamydia
- gonorrhea
- genital herpes
- genital warts
- syphilis
- hepatitis A
- hepatitis B
- hepatitis C
- HIV and AIDS
- pubic lice (crabs)
In addition to providing key issues about diagnosis, symptoms and treatment of each of the above sexually transmitted infections (STIs), Heaton-Harris also explains crucial information on how to prevent catching such infections in the first place. The dangers of picking up certain STIs when one is pregnant are highlighted, making it clear and easy to understand just how risky engaging in unprotected sex can be to both mother and foetus.
Treatment for Sexually Transmitted Infections – Genitourinary Clinic
Upon recognising any symptoms associated with having picked up an STI, such as discharge, itching, pain upon urinating or abnormal bleeding, it is important to get checked out at a specialist STI clinic, also known as a Genitourinary (GU) Clinic. In Sexually Transmitted Infections – The Essential Guide, Heaton-Harris (2008) devotes a whole chapter to explaining what is likely to be expected from visiting a GU Clinic. This chapter is very helpful, as it will hopefully help encourage those suspecting they are suffering from an STI to attend such a clinic.
Heaton-Harris (2008) identifies typical procedures undertaken at a GU Clinic as follows:
- questions on sexual history
- medical history
- internal examination (like a smear)
- urine sample
- blood test
- for men, examination of the opening of urethra, anus and throat
- for women, examination of vagina, cervix and throat
Another option is to seek advice from the family doctor or practice nurse who may carry out blood and urine tests, as well as medical examinations. The most important thing is to make sure one gets checked out sooner rather than later, as if left untreated some forms of STIs may result in women becoming infertile.
As highlighted above, Sexually Transmitted Infections – The Essential Guide, provides easy to follow, clear and concise information on many different STIs, such as HIV, pubic lice (crabs), genital herpes and Gonorrhea. This book will likely be helpful to parents of teens and those who want to find out more about sexual health and STI prevention.
Source:
Heaton-Harris, N. (2008) Sexually Transmitted Infections - The Essential Guide Peterborough: Need 2 Know ISBN: 978-1-86144-051-8
Kate Le Page - Kate Henning-Le Page writes about eating disorders, body image and recovery issues. She specializes in anorexia recovery.
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