Hello and thank you for signing on to ASHA's STI message boards. ASHA has been providing information about sexually transmitted infections (STI) since 1914 and we're happy to offer this new, electronic forum through which you can connect with others, ask questions, and learn about helpful resources.

We currently offer specific forums for Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) in addition to a board devoted to general STI issues.

Please note the following:

The information on this site does not represent therapeutic recommendation or prescription. It is provided for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace the services of a trained health professional or to be a substitute for medical advice of physicians. The user should consult a health professional in all matters relating to his or her health, and especially regarding any symptoms that may require diagnosis or medical attention.

These boards are monitored regularly and the moderators review all posts and reserve the right to edit or delete any post at their discretion.

Postings on our message boards may be used for research such as data collection and summarization, trend analysis or to contact visitors to support ASHA. This information is collected and reported anonymously (no user names). We do not share information with other organizations, and we do not sell our database.

We do our best to review posts in a timely fashion, but please keep in mind these are interactive "real time" forums and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of ASHA.

Don't give out personal information such as your name, address, or phone number.

Before asking a question, please review the STI information on our Web site at http://www.ashastd.org/learn/learn_overview.cfm. Many STI questions are answered through these pages but if you don't find what you're looking for, feel free to post a question on the appropriate board. Please keep in mind that we can only respond to questions that aren't already addressed in the STI information section of our Web site.

No "flaming" or disruptive behavior is allowed.

In general, no adds or links to commerical sites will be posted.

Those with media requests should go to http://www.ashastd.org/news/news_updates.cfm.

Send feedback to forums@ashastd.org. Please note we can't answer STI questions from this mailbox.

We're glad you're here! Visit this forum often, let us know what's on your mind, and take advantage of our many resources to help you find the information and support you need.