Introduction
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), or sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are infections that are passed from one person to another through sexual contact. They are usually spread during vaginal, oral, or anal sex. But sometimes they can spread through other sexual contact involving the penis, vagina, mouth, or anus. This is because some STDs, like herpes and HPV, are spread by skin-to-skin contact.
Some STDs can be passed from a pregnant person to the baby, either during pregnancy or when giving birth. Other ways that STDs may be spread include during breastfeeding, through blood transfusions, or by sharing needles.
There are more than 20 types of STDs, including:
Chlamydia
Genital herpes
Gonorrhea
HIV
HPV
Pubic lice
Syphilis
Trichomoniasis
Causes
STDs can be caused by bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
Most Suspected Persons
Most STDs affect both men and women, but in many cases the health problems they cause can be more severe for women. If an STD is passed to a baby, it can cause serious health problems.
Common Symptoms
STDs don't always cause symptoms or may only cause mild symptoms. So it is possible to have an infection and not know it. And even without symptoms, STDs can still be harmful and may be passed on during sex.
If there are symptoms, they could include:
Unusual discharge from the penis or vagina.
Sores or warts on the genital area.
Painful or frequent urination (peeing).
Itching and redness in the genital area.
Blisters or sores in or around the mouth.
Abnormal vaginal odor.
Anal itching, soreness, or bleeding.
Abdominal painn.
Fever.
Diagnosis
If you are sexually active, you should talk to your health care provider about your risk for STDs and whether you need to be tested. This is especially important since many STDs do not usually cause symptoms.
Some STDs may be diagnosed during a physical exam or through microscopic examination of a sore or fluid swabbed from the vagina, penis, or anus. Blood tests can diagnose other types of STDs.
Treatments
Antibiotics can treat STDs caused by bacteria or parasites. There is no cure for STDs caused by viruses, but medicines can often help with the symptoms and lower your risk of spreading the infection.
Correct usage of latex condoms greatly reduces, but does not completely eliminate, the risk of catching or spreading STDs. The most reliable way to avoid infection is to not have anal, vaginal, or oral sex.
There are vaccines to prevent HPV and hepatitis B
Prevention
Correct usage of latex condoms greatly reduces, but does not completely eliminate, the risk of catching or spreading STDs. If your or your partner is allergic to latex, you can use polyurethane condoms. The most reliable way to avoid infection is to not have anal, vaginal, or oral sex.
There are vaccines to prevent HPV and hepatitis B
