Whenever you have sex, there’s always a chance of getting a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Make sure you know how to protect yourself and what to do if you have one.

Our Lives Are on the Line: Why We Oppose Abstinence-Until-Marriage Sex Ed

By 2000-2001 Sex, Etc. Teen Staff

We, the teen editors of Sex, Etc., strongly oppose abstinence-until-marriage sexuality education. We believe it’s time for the federal government and other supporters of abstinence-until-marriage sex ed to recognize our rights, as young adults, to make informed decisions about our sexual health.

Photo by Martyna Majok

What are the different kinds of STDs? What are some common symptoms of STDs? I think I might have a sexually transmitted disease (STD). How do I find out for sure, and what do I tell my partner? When should I get tested for STDs?

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Have questions or comments about STDs and how to protect yourself? Go to the Forums and share your thoughts!

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What would you say to your partner if you had an STD?

AI wouldn’t say anything!
BI’d tell him or her the truth.
CI’d tell him or her to get checked, but not because I might have passed along an STD.
DI would just say we have to be very careful from now on.

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Here are some of the best Web sites, hotlines and books about STDs and STD testing.