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HPV (human papilloma virus) spreads through skin contact. Some types of HPV cause genital warts. Other types put females at higher risk of cancer of the cervix. HPV is very common in all people. And it can't be cured. But there are treatments to remove warts. Tests can also help spot warning signs of cervical cancer.

The only sure way to prevent STIs (sexually transmitted infections) is not having any kind of sex. But if you do decide to have sex, take steps to protect yourself. Here's what you need to know.

In women, warning signs of STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) can be hard to notice. That's because the sex organs outside the body (the genitals) aren't easy to see. STDs also often affect the organs inside the body that let you get pregnant. Damage to these organs can sometimes cause sterility - meaning you won't be able to have kids. So learn about your body. Find out what's normal for you. And be sure to have any changes or symptoms checked out.

Syphilis spreads through any kind of sexual contact. That is vaginal sex, anal sex, or oral sex. This sexually transmitted disease (STD) or infection (STI) has 3 stages. It gets worse with each stage. Syphilis can be cured. But early treatment is important. Left alone, it can cause lasting damage, like blindness. Syphilis can even cause death.

Vaginitis is a name for a group of vaginal infections. These include trichomoniasis, bacterial vaginosis (BV), and yeast infections. The only true STD (sexually transmitted disease) is trichomoniasis. But having any type of vaginitis may increase your risk of catching other STDs.

Women may be surprised to learn heart disease is the biggest threat to their health--even more so than breast cancer. And the same factors that put women at risk of a heart attack also increase their chances of stroke and other health problems. If your heart's in trouble, your body may send you warning signs. It's up to you to notice these and talk to your healthcare provider about them.

Making even one lifestyle change for your heart reduces your risk for heart disease. Change is hard for everyone, so take it one step at a time. Here are some tips to help you get started on making changes that are good for your heart.

Risk factors are habits and conditions that make heart disease more likely. The more risk factors you have, the higher your chances of a heart attack. Most risk factors can be managed to help make your heart healthier.

Irrigating a colostomy allows you increased control over the timing of your bowel movements. Once a day, or once every other day, you irrigate by flushing the colostomy with warm water. Read on for clear step-by-step instructions.