How is STD Spread?

STD is spread during close, sexual activity and during vaginal, anal and oral sex. Some STDs (HIV and Hepatitis B) are also spread by contact with infected blood. Most STD germs need to live in warm, moist areas. That's why they infect the mouth, rectum and sex organs (vagina, vulva, penis and testes).

What to do?

If you think you might have an STD, get checked out. Don't just hope the STD will go away. It won't! The Seminole County Health Department and private doctors test for and treat STDs. If you don't know where to get help, or have general questions, call the Seminole County Health Department's STD staff at 407.665.3700 for information. Your information will be kept confidential (private).

You may feel embarrassed about having an STD. It may be hard for you to go to a doctor or clinic for help. But you MUST get treatment for the STD, even if it is a hard thing for you to do. This is the only way you will get well.

Most STDs can be treated with antibiotics. Do exactly what your doctor tells you. Be sure to use all of your medicine.

You must tell your sexual partner(s). If they aren't treated, they can get sick. They can spread the STD. They might even give it to you again!