254. Basic Facts about Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are also called sexually transmitted infections (STIs). These are infections that pass from an infected person to another person through sexual contact. This can be from vaginal, anal, or oral sex or from genital-to-genital contact. Here are some basic facts about STDs/STIs.
Causes.
STDs/STIs are caused by certain bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis are bacterial infections. Hepatitis B, herpes, HIV, and human papillomavirus (HPV) are viral infections. A protozoan causes trichomoniasis.
Signs and symptoms.
STDs/STIs may or may not have visible signs or symptoms. When symptoms occur, common ones include a discharge from the penis or vagina, pain during sex or when passing urine, and/or sores or blisters in the genital area. Sometimes, signs and symptoms don’t show up for years. Also, you can have more than one STD/STI. For example, Chlamydia and gonorrhea can be contracted at the same time.
Prevention.
A vaccine can prevent hepatitis B. An HPV vaccine (available for females ages 9 to 26) can prevent cervical cancer and genital lesions that lead to it. It can also block persistent infection with HPV types associated with 90 percent of genital warts. Otherwise, ways to prevent STDs/STIs are to abstain from sexual contact or limit sexual contact to one person, provided he or she does not have an STD/STI and has sex only with you. Using latex or polyurethane condoms consistently and correctly reduce the risk of spreading HIV and other STDs/STIs, such as Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis. They do not get rid of the risk entirely. Barriers made of natural membranes, such as from lamb, do not give good protection against STDs/STIs.
Treatment
STDs/STIs caused by bacteria can be cured with antibiotics. STDs/STIs caused by viruses can be treated, but not cured. {Note: Fast response counts.} If you suspect you have an STD/STI, see your health care provider as soon as you can for diagnosis and treatment. Your sexual partner should also be contacted and treated, as needed.
Possible complications.
If some STDs/STIs are not treated, serious, long-term problems like infertility and central nervous system disorders can occur. With HIV/AIDS, the body becomes unable to fight infections, which can lead to death.
