Health consequences

Some STDs are easily treated and some STDs stay with you for life. There are four serious health consequences of some STDs:

• Blockage of the fallopian tubes which can lead to infertility and ectopic pregnancy, 
• Pregnancy loss and increased newborn deaths caused by transmission of the infection to the infant during pregnancy and childbirth, 
• Genital cancers, 
• Enhanced transmission of HIV/AIDS.

Other STDs are more of a nuisance than a health risk.  Pubic lice, or 'crabs,' for example, itch a lot but don't do any permanent damage.  If you get an infection and you want to know how serious it could be, talk with your health care provider.

Social and psychological consequences

The psychological impact of having a sexually transmitted disease can be severe. Some persons become depressed or anxious.  They fear recurrent outbreaks, transmission to sex partners, and difficulties in developing new relationships. 

Our society does not talk about STDs.  Although STDs are very common, many people have a great deal of shame and fear about infections caused by sexual behavior.  Fortunately, proper treatment and knowledge about the true risks can greatly lessen all these effects.