Sexual Health

There are a lot of things to consider when having sex. Be informed so you can make the best decision. Not just for today, but for your future.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain a major public health challenge in the United States. While substantial progress has been made in preventing, diagnosing, and treating certain STIs in recent years, CDC estimates that 19 million new infections occur each year, almost half of them among young people ages 15 to 24.

HPV infection and cervical cancer risk is increased by:

• Beginning sexual intercourse at an early age-especially age 16 or younger
• Having multiple sexual partners
• Sex with partners who engage in a high-risk sexual behavior

Pregnancy

Of the 3.1 million unintended pregnancies in 2001, 48% of women were using contraceptives.

Among women who have had an abortion, 54% used a contraceptive method during the month they became pregnant.

If you have questions about making healthy sexual decisions, we have some great information for you.

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Source: “Human Papillomaviruses and Cancer,” National Cancer Institute, October 15, 2002
Source: Weinstock H, Berman S, Cates W. Sexually transmitted diseases among American youth: incidence and prevalence estimates, 2000. Perspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health 2004;36(1):6-10.
Source: Boonstra H et al., Abortion in Womens Lives, New York : Guttmacher Institute, 2006
Source: Boonstra H et al., Abortion in Womens Lives, New York : Guttmacher Institute, 2006