TIME FOR BETTER EDUCATION ON RISKS OF SEX

Here's our Editorial from today's Daily News. I have two sisters between the ages of 14-19, so when I read the recent report that 1 in 4 of our girls in that age range have STD's, it led to two immediate phone calls.

Please read our editorial and get informed. STD's are not just for kids though. Knowing your risk factors, talking openly with your partner, and if you have already decided to have sex, knowing how to protect yourself are all very important. STD's are tricky in that their symptoms masquerade as ones that could easily be pinned on another culprit -- flu, cold, the like. If an STD is not caught early on the effects are far more damaging, and for expectant mothers, if you don't take precautions your baby could very well be affected.

Of those who know they have an STD, 80% do not tell their partners, so it is important to ask your partner when he or she last got tested and if they are sleeping with anyone else. Married couples are not exempt -- people can enter into a marriage without knowing they have an STD or they can be unfaithful -- and when married people cheat they are less likely to protect themselves.

But you feel just fine, you go to the DOC every year or OBGN and you're sure they would tell you if something was up, you don't need to get tested. WRONG! Most doctors do not test for STD's unless you specifically ask and then don't test for all STD's.

Know your risk factors and the symptoms you should be aware of The editorial gives local options, but you can call 1-866- 478-3417 to find a testing site near you. It is confidential.

Remember AIDS and STD's do not discriminate -- you can't tell if someone has one by how they look.