STDs are not discussed openly because of the shame and stigma associated with them. They are in fact referred to by some people as ‘private’ or ‘secret’ diseases. it is wrongly believed that STDs happen to “bad” people or women in prostitution. due to these reasons persons, with STDs do not seek treatment. However, STDs can not only cause much pain and discomfort but also have many damaging consequences. Counselors need to be sensitive to these perceptions. They need to demonstrate acceptance and a non-judgmental attitude to clients. every attempt should be made by them to safeguard the privacy and confidentiality of their clients.

When counseling someone with a STD, the following points should be attended to:

• What STDs are, and how they are contracted?

• The common symptoms and signs of STDs in men and women. Counselors need to emphasis that there may not always be symptoms; or, they may be so slight that they do not bother the patient. Women especially, often do not have any symptoms at all. However, without treatment, the patient is and will remain infectious and can unknowingly pass on the disease.

• Myths about STD (myths regarding the mode of spread as well as means of cure) Consequences of not treating an STD, especially for pregnant women.

• The relationship between STDs and HIV. Where a person can go for further information and tests: primary health centers, STD departments in government hospitals, dermatologists (specialists in skin and sexually transmitted diseases), gynecologists, family physician (who may treat and/or refer) etc.

• Diagnosis and treatment. the importance of early treatment and compliance needs to be stressed to ensure complete cure. STD patients should be counseled to take all medication as prescribed even if the symptoms disappear or they feel better.