VD stands for Venereal Disease, which is an older term for what is now known as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
VD vs. STD: Understanding the Terminology
| Term | Meaning | Current Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Venereal Disease | Older term for sexually transmitted infections | Less common |
| STD | Sexually Transmitted Disease | More common |
Essentially, VD and STD refer to the same group of infections spread primarily through sexual contact. The change in terminology reflects a more accurate understanding of these diseases and reduces the stigma associated with them.
Common Examples of STDs (formerly known as VD)
While many STDs exist, during the 1950s and 1960s, the primary focus was on:
- Syphilis
- Gonorrhea
Today, public health organizations like the CDC study a wider range of STDs.
