STDs, or sexually transmitted diseases, are infections that can be contracted through sexual encounters. These infections are caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Currently, there are more than 20 known types of STDs, and they can lead to serious symptoms and consequences, including cancer, infertility in women, and, in rare cases, death.
Preventing STDs
Every year, there are millions of reported cases of sexually transmitted diseases, but it’s actually quite easy to prevent them. Certain lifestyles can make you more vulnerable to STDs, such as being sexually active at a young age, using alcohol and illegal drugs excessively, and living in a community with a high STD rate. To stay safe, it’s important to practice safe sex by avoiding unprotected intercourse, refraining from having multiple partners, and steering clear of risky sexual behaviors.
When engaging in oral, vaginal, or anal sex, always make sure to use latex condoms. It’s best to avoid condoms that are lubricated with spermicides, as some spermicides can actually increase the risk of HIV. Additionally, keep in mind that there are vaccines available to prevent STD infections like hepatitis B and Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
Common STDs
Sexually transmitted diseases can cause a variety of symptoms
Chlamydia is a bacterial infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, which can affect both men and women’s urinary tract. It can lead to symptoms like discomfort while urinating and pain in the lower abdomen. For women, Chlamydia may cause pain during sex and abnormal vaginal discharge. Men may experience discharge from the penis and pain in the testicles.
Gonorrhea is caused by Neisseria gonorrhea, a type of bacteria. It can affect the genital tract, mouth, and rectum of both males and females. Some common symptoms include a thick, cloudy, or bloody discharge from the penis or vagina, discomfort or burning sensation while urinating, frequent urination, and pain during sexual intercourse.
Syphilis is caused by a bacteria called Treponema pallidum, which has a spiral shape. It usually shows up as one or more sores or ulcers in the genital area. Sometimes, syphilis can lie dormant for as long as seven years before causing any symptoms. Luckily, syphilis can be treated and cured with penicillin or other antibiotics. However, if left untreated, syphilis can lead to serious complications, even death.
Trichomoniasis is caused due to a protozoa called Trichomonas vaginalis. This condition can affect both men and women, but it tends to show more symptoms in women. Women may experience vaginal discharge, itchiness, discomfort during sex, painful urination, and even light vaginal bleeding .
Genital Herpes is caused by the Herpes Simplex virus. The infection manifests as the presence of one or multiple blisters on or near the genital or rectal area. These blisters form clusters filled with fluid, which eventually rupture and result in the formation of painful sores.
Human Papillomavirus, or HPV, is a viral infection that can manifest in the mouth, throat, or genital regions of both males and females. In the majority of instances, there are no visible symptoms. Nevertheless, the infection can also present itself as genital warts or, less commonly, in the throat. Specific strains of HPV have the potential to lead to life-threatening cancers.
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver. If left untreated, this infection can lead to the development of chronic liver disease. Common symptoms associated with Hepatitis B include fever, fatigue, muscle or joint pain, loss of appetite, mild nausea and vomiting. However, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention and potentially be hospitalized if more severe symptoms such as severe nausea and vomiting, yellowing of the eyes and skin (jaundice), or a bloated or swollen stomach manifest.
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a medical condition caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), which gradually impairs the immune system and renders the body susceptible to infections. The progression from HIV to full-blown AIDS can take several years, during which early symptoms such as fever, headache, sore throat, swollen lymph glands, rashes, and fatigue may manifest. Once these initial signs subside, chronic symptoms like diarrhea, weight loss, fever, cough, and shortness of breath may arise. In the later stages of HIV, symptoms may include fatigue, night sweats, persistent chills or fever, swollen lymph nodes for over three months, chronic diarrhea, and ongoing headaches. While there is currently no cure for AIDS, there are methods available to effectively manage the disease, enabling individuals to maintain better health and prolong their lives.
Treatment of STDs
If you have any concerns about the possibility of having an STD, consult your doctor without delay. It is crucial to be open and straightforward with your doctor, despite the potential discomfort or awkwardness of the conversation. Failing to seek timely treatment for an STD can result in serious risks and consequences.
Instances that may raise concern include experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, engaging in sexual encounters that could be considered high risk based on personal history, or having partners who have exhibited symptoms of a sexually transmitted disease. Seeking medical attention is vital for receiving a specific diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and guidance on support options to manage the disease effectively.
In order to determine the underlying cause of any symptoms or infections, the physician or healthcare provider may request certain laboratory tests. While blood samples are commonly collected for most tests, in some cases, testing fluids from active sores or scrapings may be necessary. Additionally, testing discharge may be required to confirm a diagnosis.
Most bacterial or parasitic infections typically require antibiotic treatments. While viral STD infections cannot be cured, they can be effectively managed through the use of vaccines. HIV infections, on the other hand, are controlled with the help of antiviral and antiretroviral drugs, which can significantly enhance the overall quality of life.
Living with STDs
It is possible to control or eliminate most sexually transmitted diseases, particularly when they are promptly diagnosed and treated. It is important to adhere to the instructions provided with any prescribed medication. Additionally, abstain from sexual activity while undergoing treatment. It is crucial to inform recent sexual partners about the diagnosis and encourage them to undergo testing as well.
Every year, a significant number of individuals needlessly expose themselves to sexually transmitted infections. Being aware of the symptoms and seeking timely medical intervention can prevent a distressing situation from turning into a life-threatening one.
