The GAPA offers health advice regarding STDs

Since April is also known as Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) Awareness Month, members from the Georgia Association of Physician Assistants (GAPA) discussed the prevalence of sexual infections, as well as methods of prevention.

According to the health professionals, many people underestimate their risk of contracting an STD or the number of Americans who live with the infections. More than half of Georgians who seek medical services will be diagnosed with one or more STDs in their lifetimes.

The physician assistants said that sexually active individuals should not hesitate to ask their intimate partners about their STD history, since many infections do not present any visible symptoms. This includes how many mates the person has been involved with and whether or not they have engaged in unprotected sex.

GAPA advocates that all sexually active people should undergo regular STD screening. The group noted that early detection of these diseases may help a person avoid uncomfortable symptoms, unintentional transmission or subsequent long-term health conditions.

Three strategies that the medical assistants recommend for infection prevention include abstaining from all forms of sex, maintaining one monogamous relationship and using latex condoms during all sexual encounters.

Individuals who would like to be screened for STDs may consider using online testing services.