http://www.ck12.org Chapter 1. Human Biology
1.77 Sexually Transmitted Infections
- Describe common sexually transmitted infections.
What is safe sex?
Safe sex is sexual activity engaged in by people who have taken precautions to protect themselves against sexually
transmitted infections. Abstaining from sexual activity, however, is the only way to be absolutely sure that you won’t
get a sexually transmitted infection.
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Asexually transmitted infection (STI)is an infection that spreads through sexual contact. STIs are caused by
pathogens, a living thing or virus that causes infection. The pathogens enter the body through the reproductive
organs. Many STIs also spread through body fluids, such as blood. For example, a shared tattoo needle is one way
an STI could spread. Some STIs can also spread from a mother to her baby during childbirth.
STIs are more common in teens and young adults than in older people. One reason is that young people are more
likely to take risks. They also may not know how STIs spread. They are likely to believe myths about STIs (Table
1.9).
TABLE1.9:Sexually Transmitted Infections
Myth Fact
If you are sexually active with just one person, you
can’t get STIs.The only way to avoid the risk of STIs is to practice
abstinence from sexual activity.