Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) Awareness Month

A healthier community begins with reproductive and sexual health. Sexual health is defined as a state of physical, emotional, mental and societal well being related to sexuality; it is not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction or infirmity. Sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, free of coercion, discrimination and violence. Sexual health is also about open communication, acceptance of individual differences and having realistic expectations and an understanding of sexuality. April is Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) Awareness Month, an annual observance to call attention to the impact of STDs and to promote STD testing across the country. Adolescents and young adults are particularly vulnerable to STDs. In fact, young people between 15 and 24 years of age account for nearly half of all STD cases. The need for more information and better decision-making in sexual relationships is apparent in Montana’s young adults. In 2009, 81% of all reported Chlamydia cases and 77% of all Gonorrhea cases occurred in those between the ages of 15-24. Almost half (44%) of all pregnancies in Montana are unplanned. 

 You can participate in Sexually Transmitted Diseases Awareness Month by talking with the young adults in your life and ensure that they are well-equipped with the knowledge to make positive choices when it comes to their sexual health. Richland County Family Planning is encouraging everyone to take care of their sexual health by getting routine STD screenings, discussing sexual health concerns with their health care providers, and planning for healthy pregnancies. For more information or to schedule an appointment for STD testing, please call Lesley Thiessen, RN at the Richland County Health Department at 433-2207.