According to the Portland Press Herald, the rising chlamydia and gonorrhea numbers mirror a national trend. Health experts are saying this could be in the result of not using and condoms and less fear of having unprotected sex.

The numbers show that from January of this year until the end of April, 1,324 Mainers have gotten chlamydia, which is about 30% higher than the first five months of last year. 181 people contracted gonorrhea during those months. They are predicting nearly 550 people will get it this year, which will trump last years number of 422 cases.

The beginning to the solution is fairly simple:

  • Remaining with one partner is going to substantially decrease your odds at contracting anything.
  • The use of condoms
  • Abstinence (refraining from sex)

It's important to remember that just because you or your partner aren't experiencing any symptoms does not mean you're not infected with an STD. Many people show no symptoms at all.

It's important to get yourself tested regularly if you have been sexually active. You can set up and appointment with your doctor. Also, although Portland has a plan to shut it down, the India Street Health Clinic will continue for at least another year providing STD screenings.

 

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