Includes bibliographical references (p. 307-324) and index.

Offers accurate information on STDs and discusses anatomy, transmission, symptoms, medical treatment, terminology, and prevention. Despite the emphasis on safe sex in the era of HIV and AIDS, sexually transmitted infections remain alarmingly common. Every year, more than 12 million people in this country will be diagnosed with one of the twenty STDs known to modern medicine--from familiar diseases like HIV and syphilis to conditions such as chlamydia and herpes, which are less understood by the public. More than half of sexually active adults over age 35 will acquire one or more STDs at some point in their lives. The majority of STDs remain part of a "hidden epidemic" for reasons that range from reluctance of parents and teachers to talk about sex to the lack of symptoms produced by many disorders. Yet the long-term effects may be devastating and can include infertility, scarring, premature births, and death. There is a clear need for greater public awareness of how easily STDs are transmitted--and how potentially dangerous they are. With this book, Dr. Lisa Marr provides a much-needed resource on the subject of STDs in a comprehensive and easy-to-use reference format. As medical director at an STD clinic in Portland, Dr. Marr has worked on the front lines of the fight against STDs, and her approach is frank, nonjudgmental, and thorough. In Part One of the book, she describes male and female anatomy and reviews the symptoms that may indicate infection with an STD. She explains what an STD exam should include and discusses sexual communication as well as safe and unsafe sexual practices. Side bars, case studies, and illustrations help explain all of these important topics. Part Two is a comprehensive encyclopedia of STDs, with entries for each that describe symptoms, risk factors, transmission, testing, and treatment. Throughout, Dr. Marr focuses on clearing up misconceptions by providing accurate, practical advice for people of all ages, races, sexual orientation, and economic means.--From book jacket.