I came across this interesting statistics last night: there are an estimated 26 million Americans who are infected with the HPV virus (which, amongst other things, is responsible for genital warts). Given it's prevalence it should be clear warning for men and women alike to be extra careful when engaging in sexual relationships with new people.
Older folks may think that it's a symptom of the younger set with their so-called "loose ways". In reality, seniors should take heed too: There has been a marked rise in sexually transmitted diseases among seniors, in part, no thanks to drugs like Viagra.
So what is there to be done about it?
1. If you suspect you have genital warts - be aware that it is painfully contagious. It is spread via skin to skin contact. People have long memories, especially of those who gave them something as a lasting as the clap. Stay at home. Do something else. Take a cold shower.
2. Be socially responsible. Consider dating with people who have similar STDs. You can locate them via websites such as Positively Singles. It is not only a site for the HIV positive. HPV positive is as good a reason.
3. Consider creams. I'm not making particular recommendations here, but it suffices to say they are available and can be reasonably inexpensive, and not too painful to apply.
4. Laser surgery removal of warts is safe. However, it does not eradicate the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) from the host. (i.e. you still can infect other people).
5. Avoid oral sex. The genital wart virus has been linked to throat cancer. A recent report indicates that presence of the HPV increases one's risk of contracting throat cancer EIGHT FOLD. That is something to crow about.
6. Having an active STD is not the end of social life. Just be prepared with some decent excuses so that you don't have to take your date home. For example, "It's my parents anniversary tonight, and I want to set aside an hour to have a chat with them over the phone", or "It's my turn handing out blankets for the homeless tonight". Sounds better than "I've got the claps baby".
7. What about condoms? The current advice is condoms may reduce the chances of spreading it to another person. However, there is protection only when the infected region is covered. My advice is: "Stay home guys and girls, it is not a pretty sight"
Older folks may think that it's a symptom of the younger set with their so-called "loose ways". In reality, seniors should take heed too: There has been a marked rise in sexually transmitted diseases among seniors, in part, no thanks to drugs like Viagra.
So what is there to be done about it?
1. If you suspect you have genital warts - be aware that it is painfully contagious. It is spread via skin to skin contact. People have long memories, especially of those who gave them something as a lasting as the clap. Stay at home. Do something else. Take a cold shower.
2. Be socially responsible. Consider dating with people who have similar STDs. You can locate them via websites such as Positively Singles. It is not only a site for the HIV positive. HPV positive is as good a reason.
3. Consider creams. I'm not making particular recommendations here, but it suffices to say they are available and can be reasonably inexpensive, and not too painful to apply.
4. Laser surgery removal of warts is safe. However, it does not eradicate the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) from the host. (i.e. you still can infect other people).
5. Avoid oral sex. The genital wart virus has been linked to throat cancer. A recent report indicates that presence of the HPV increases one's risk of contracting throat cancer EIGHT FOLD. That is something to crow about.
6. Having an active STD is not the end of social life. Just be prepared with some decent excuses so that you don't have to take your date home. For example, "It's my parents anniversary tonight, and I want to set aside an hour to have a chat with them over the phone", or "It's my turn handing out blankets for the homeless tonight". Sounds better than "I've got the claps baby".
7. What about condoms? The current advice is condoms may reduce the chances of spreading it to another person. However, there is protection only when the infected region is covered. My advice is: "Stay home guys and girls, it is not a pretty sight"