Modern forms of contraception allow women and men to enjoy their sexuality to the full. But sexual freedom also means taking responsibility for yourself and your partner. Inform yourself about the risks of sexually transmitted diseases and how they can be avoided.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infectious diseases which are passed on through any kind of sexual contact, whether vaginal, oral or anal.

The 'traditional' sexually transmitted diseases are gonorrhea, syphilis, chancroid and lymphogranuloma inguinale.
But there are other diseases that can be transmitted by sexual contact. These include:

viral infections: AIDS, genital herpes, hepatitis B, genital warts
bacterial infections: chlamydia
fungal infections: candidiasis (thrush)
protozoal infections: trichomoniasis

With the exception of AIDS there are good chances of cure for all the sexually transmitted diseases mentioned - provided that medical treatment is started early enough. Otherwise serious late effects are to be feared.

The best protection against sexually transmitted disease is safer sex, i.e.

no vaginal, anal or oral penetration without a condom.

Sex without a condom is only permissible in a monogamous (committed and faithful) relationship in which neither partner suffers from a sexually transmitted disease.

Sexually transmitted disease is also termed "venereal disease".