STDs Can Occur -- Even If You Remain Abstinent

There are many myths about STDs, or Sexually Transmitted Diseases. One is that you can contract STDs from a toilet seat.  This is highly unlikely. STDs are communicable diseases that are transmitted from one person to the next through sexual activity. But what if you are not having sex? Are you safe from STDs?

Possible ways to spread STDs

There are other ways in which STDs can be spread. They can include:

• Sharing needles, razors, or other cutting devices with someone who has an STD
• Using a moist towel that has been in contact with someone's infected areas
• Skin-to-skin contact without sex
• Kissing someone who has an outbreak of infectious sores

If you think you may have been exposed in other ways other than sexual contact, it is best to get tested since often there are no symptoms. This will enable you to seek treatment and also reduce the risk of infecting anyone else. Testing every 3-6 months is recommended. Untreated STDs can lead to pelvic inflammation, permanent damage to the fallopian tubes, uterus, and surrounding tissues, and infertility.

For more information on sexually transmitted diseases, visit www.cdc.gov/std/