Are these STD numbers correct?

[tittietwister]

Statistics on the general population are fine but they don't apply to specialized groups that self-select out of the general population. The Center for Disease Control has only documented one case of HIV among swingers and that was transmitted by a gay man - fairly rare in swinging and falso fairly easy to identify and avoid.

STDs also tend to be more common in certain age groups - younger.

While we certainly acknowledge the risk in everything we do, as a motorcyclist I have a fairly high risk tolerance - something we seem to be breeding out of all aspects of our society. My attitude, which I realize is not the norm, is to manage risks as best I can vs. trying to avoid all of them. We pick our partners very carefully and the characteristics of the group we play with is one of extremely low risk based on the best analysis of statistics that is possible. Is the risk zero? No! Is it low enough for us to proceed without being overly concerned and with recognition that we are ultimately accountable for any adverse outcomes? Yes!

[Lascivious L&L]

On the CDC website the last general population study found that 58% of adults have herpes simplex 1, oral herpes, and 20% of adults have herpes simplex 2, genital herpes. Either one can infect orally or genitally, so the difference is minor. That means the most adults have herpes. You and me and most swingers. Herpes is the norm, being free from herpes is the exception. Condoms do not protect from herpes well.

HPV is similar. Most researchers feel the the majority of sexual active adults have at least one variety of HPV. Both these viruses, herpes and HPV, can infect without any symptoms and that is likely the case for most infected people since most people don't realize they have herpes or HPV.

Once again, herpes and HPV are the norm for sexually active adults. Assume all swingers are infected. Assume you are infected and have been for a long time.