Chapter 13: Sexually Transmitted Infections and HIV/AIDS | Reading and Writing Practice

Read the passage below and then answer the questions.

While some STIs cause little or no discomfort, these diseases can still damage the reproductive organs and cause infertility, the inability to conceive and have children. In fact, people can develop infertility or other permanent health problems even if they have been cured of an STI.

If left untreated, STIs can damage not only the reproductive organs, but also the brain, heart, liver, and other internal organs. Worse, a few STIs are incurable, some cause cancer, and some are fatal. Sadly, it is possible for a pregnant woman with an STI to transmit the infection to her baby during pregnancy, birth, or breast-feeding. Some of the problems caused by STI transmission may be seen in the baby at birth. Some effects, however, may not be visible for months or years after birth.







   









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