Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), also known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are infections transmitted through sexual contact. They can affect the genital, urinary, and reproductive systems, as well as other parts of the body including oral cavity to heart to brain.

Common STDs and their Symptoms:

1. Chlamydia: Infection by chlamydia is often asymptomatic, but can include abnormal discharge, pain during urination, and pelvic pain.

Complications: If untreated, can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infertility.

2. Gonorrhea:

Symptoms: Similar to chlamydia, may include painful urination, pus discharge from urethra, and sore throat. Infections can be asymptomatic.
Complications: Can lead to PID, infertility, and disseminated gonococcal infection (DGI) affecting joints and skin.

3. Syphilis:

Stages: Primary (painless sore or ulcer called “Gumma”), secondary (rash, mucous membrane lesions, flu-like symptoms), latent (no symptoms), and tertiary (severe health problems affecting the heart, brain, and nerves).
Complications: Can cause serious health issues if untreated, including organ damage and neurological problems.
There is an increase in occurrence of this disease with HIV infection.

4. Human Papillomavirus (HPV):

Symptoms: Warty growths are seen, asymptomatic, but certain strains can cause genital warts. High-risk strains are associated with cervical, anal, and throat cancers.
Prevention: Vaccines available to protect against the most common cancer-causing strains.

5. Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV):

Types: HSV-1 (oral herpes) and HSV-2 (genital herpes).
Symptoms: Painful blisters or sores on the genital area or mouth. Can be recurrent.
Management: Antiviral medications can reduce symptoms and transmission risk.

6. HIV/AIDS:

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus): Attacks the immune system, specifically CD4 cells. Untreated, it progresses to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).
Symptoms: Flu-like symptoms initially, followed by a period of no symptoms. AIDS is characterized by severe immune system damage and opportunistic infections.
Management: Antiretroviral therapy (ART) can manage HIV and prevent progression to AIDS.

7. Hepatitis B and C:

Hepatitis B: Can cause acute or chronic liver infection. Symptoms include jaundice, abdominal pain, and dark urine.
Hepatitis C: Often asymptomatic initially but can lead to chronic liver disease. Symptoms may include fatigue, jaundice, and abdominal discomfort.
Prevention: Vaccination available for Hepatitis B; Hepatitis C is managed with antiviral medications.

Prevention and Testing:

Condoms: Use of condoms can significantly reduce the risk of most STDs.
Regular Testing: Routine screening is important, especially for sexually active individuals and those with multiple partners.
Vaccination: Vaccines are available for certain STDs, such as HPV and Hepatitis B.
Monogamous Relationships: Reducing the number of sexual partners and being in a mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has tested negative can reduce risk.

Treatment:

Antibiotics: Effective for bacterial STDs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis.
Antivirals: Manage symptoms and reduce transmission for viral STDs like HSV and HIV.
Antifungals: Used for fungal infections like candidiasis.

STDs can have serious health implications if not diagnosed and treated promptly. Regular check-ups, safe sex practices, and open communication with partners are key components of maintaining sexual health.