What is Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD)?
STDs are diseases that are transmitted from person to person, most commonly through vaginal, anal, and oral intercourse. They're very common and many people who have them have no symptoms. STDs can cause major health issues if not treated. The good news is that getting tested is simple, and most STDs are easily treated. STDs are dangerous infections that require medical attention. Others, such as the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), cannot be cured and can be fatal if not treated.
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Get A Second OpinionWhat are the types of sexually transmitted infections?
The types of STDs are as follows
What are the Symptoms of Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD)?
STDs may not always cause symptoms and may only cause minor ones. As a result, it is possible to have an infection and be aware of it. You may, however, transmit it to someone else.
The following symptoms may be experienced by men:
- Itching or burning in the penis
- A discharge (drip) from the penis
- Pain in the lower abdomen
- Penis, anus, or mouth sores, pimples, or blisters
- Burning and discomfort when passing urine or bowel movements
- Having to use the restroom frequently
The following symptoms are common among women:
- Itching or burning in the vagina
- A discharge or odour from the vaginal area
- Pain in the lower abdomen
- Vaginal bleeding that is not usual
- Pain during sex
- Vaginal sores, pimples, or blisters, anus, or mouth sores
- Burning and discomfort when passing pee or bowel motions
- Having to use the restroom frequently
When to See a Doctor ?
Although some STDs may not cause symptoms, it is nevertheless important to look for any signs of infection, even if they are minor. If you experience any of the following symptoms, see a doctor or healthcare expert straight away:
- Urinary incontinence
- Abnormal discharge from the cervix, penis, or anus
- Itching or burning in the genitalia
- Rashes, pimples, and sores
- Pelvic discomfort, often known as lower abdominal pain
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
- Painful penetrative sex
What are the Risk Factors of Sexually Transmitted Infections?
- Having unprotected sex : Vaginal or anal penetration by an infected partner who isn't wearing a latex condom increases the risk of getting an STD substantially. Improper or inconsistent condom usage might also increase the risk.
- Oral sex : It may be less risky, but infections can still be transmitted without a latex condom or a dental dam.
- Having sexual contact with multiple partners : The risk increases if someone gets intimate with more people who might already have some kind of infection.
- History of STD : Anyone who has a history of an STD, particularly HIV/AIDS, is at an increased risk of contracting any other STD. In other words, having an STD makes you more likely to contract another STD in the future.
- Being forced to engage in sexual activity : Dealing with rape or assault is challenging, but it's critical to visit a doctor as quickly as possible for screening, treatment, and emotional support.
- Misuse of alcohol or use of recreational drugs : Substance abuse can impair judgement, making you more likely to engage in unsafe behaviour.
- Injecting drugs : Sharing needles transmit a variety of dangerous illnesses, including HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.
- Age : People aged 15 to 24 contribute about half of all new sexually transmitted diseases.
What are the Complications of Sexually Transmitted Infections?
STDs can have long-term consequences if left untreated. The possible complications include:
- Infertility and reproductive health issues
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and discomfort in the pelvis
- Complications of pregnancy
- Certain cancers, including HPV-related cervical and rectal cancers
- Heart disease
- Inflammation of the eyes
What is the Prevention of STDs?
Preventing STIs is the best way to avoid an STD. The only sure method to do so is to avoid unprotected sexual contact. There are, however, ways to make sex safer and lower the chance of developing an STD:
- Before engaging in any sexual activity with a new partner, have an honest conversation about their sexual past.
- Get tested for STIs regularly, especially if you have new or multiple partners.
- To help prevent Sexually transmitted diseases that spread through fluids, use a condom properly during vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Dental dams can help protect against oral sex.
- Consider obtaining an HPV and hepatitis B vaccine.
- If you are at a higher risk of developing HIV, consider taking PrEP medicine daily.