The Growing Burden of Sexually Transmitted Infections

By Edward C. Geehr, M.D., Lifescript Chief Medical Officer

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently published two analyses that examine the severe human and economic impact of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the U.S. The CDC estimates that there are 20 million new infections each year that burden the health-care system with nearly $16 billion in medical expenses. (STI is the generally accepted terminology for what was once called an STD, or sexually transmitted disease.) 

Young people, ages 15-24, account for half of all new STIs, even though they represent only 25% of the sexually active population. The number of new infections roughly affects men and women equally. 

The CDC analyzed data from 2008 on eight common STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis B (HBV), herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), human papillomavirus (HPV), syphilis, and trichomoniasis.

There was both good and bad news.

Can Oral Sex Cause Throat Cancer?

Be Safe, Not Sorry

By Edward C. Geehr, M.D., Lifescript Chief Medical Officer

In an era of HIV and chastity rings, teenagers and young adults – roughly 75% of them – have turned to oral sex as a “less risky” option. 

But it’s not safe sex.

And while it won’t get you pregnant, it can still get you into big trouble.

Researchers have established a link between oral sex, the human papillomavirus (the same virus that causes cervical cancer) and throat cancer.

That adds to a roster of risks already tied to oral sex: herpes, syphilis, gonorrhea, and HIV.

Learn more now...

The link between oral sex and HPV is scary news.
The percentages of those having oral sex...

My husband cheated on me...he used a condom, but am I still at risk for STDs?

Q: My husband cheated on me...he used a condom, but am I still at risk for STDs?My husband just admitted that he cheated on me a few years ago. I know that after he did, I got some type of infection that the doctor cleared up with medication. He said he used a condom with the other woman. Could he have transmitted an STD from her to me even though he used a condom with her? Second, I might leave him...how long should I wait before having sex with someone new?

Can pregnant women become infected with STDs?

STDs & Pregnancy - CDC Fact Sheet

Can pregnant women become infected with STDs?
Yes, women who are pregnant can become infected with the same sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) as women who are not pregnant. Pregnancy does not provide women or their babies any protection against STDs. The consequences of an STD can be significantly more serious, even life threatening, for a woman and her baby if the woman becomes infected with an STD while pregnant. It is important that women be aware of the harmful effects of STDs and know how to protect themselves and their children against infection.