Sexually Transmitted Diseases STDs: Types, Symptoms, Treatment

STDs Definition

Sexually transmitted diseases are infectious diseases, the major portion of which is transferred through sexual contact, be it in the form of vaginal, anal, or oral sex. The causative elements are majorly represented by bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi.

Knowledge of STDs is crucial for maintaining sexual health, preventing infections, and reducing long-term complications of health. Awareness and education will allow subjects to take preventive measures, get timely treatment, and reduce the stigma associated with these diseases.

Types Of Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Sexually transmitted diseases can be classified into bacterial, viral, parasitic, and fungal infections. Each of these categories has different pathogens with a dissimilar impact on health.

Bacterial STDs

The main bacterial STDs are:

Chlamydia

• It is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis.

• Symptoms: Mostly it is asymptomatic, but occasionally, some experience pain in the genital region and swelling, and discharge may occur as well.

• Treating: Antibiotics such as azithromycin or doxycycline.

Gonorrhea

• This infection is caused by a bacterium known as Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

• Symptoms: Painful urination, and discharge that is not normal

• Treatment: The antibiotics usually provided to terminate the multiplication of these bacteria are ceftriaxone and azithromycin.

Syphilis

• This sexually transmitted infection is the result of the bacterium Treponema pallidum.

• Symptoms: Pain-free sores, rash, fever, and swelling of the lymph nodes

• Treating: Injecting penicillin into the body.

Viral STDs

Common viral STDs are:

HIV/AIDS

• Symptoms: initially flu-like symptoms, then a long asymptomatic period, then AIDS.

• Treatment: Antiretroviral therapy.

Herpes Simplex Virus

• Virus responsible for genital and oral herpes

• Symptoms: Painful blisters or sores on genitals, rectum, or mouth.

• Treatment: Antiviral drugs such as acyclovir

Human Papillomavirus

• Virus responsible for genital warts and is associated with cervical cancer

• Symptoms: Often asymptomatic, in some cases warts on genital areas

• Treatment: Removal of warts, HPV vaccine for prevention

Hepatitis B and C

• Viruses that attack the liver.

• Symptoms: Jaundice, fatigue, pain in the abdomen.

• Treatment: Antiviral drugs, monitoring of liver.

Parasitic STDs

The common parasitic STDs are:

Trichomoniasis

• Caused by a parasite Trichomonas vaginalis.

• Symptoms: Itching, burning, redness or soreness of the genitals.

• Treatment: Antibiotics like metronidazole

Fungal STDs

Candidiasis (Yeast Infection)

• Caused by the fungus Candida species

• Symptoms: Vaginal itching (or pruritus) and irritation and discharge from the vagina

• Treatment: Anti-fungal drugs, e.g., fluconazole.

Modes Of Transmission

• Sexually transmitted diseases spread or transferred from one person to another through different media. Although the most common media are sexual

• Direct contact with infected bodily fluids or mucous membranes.

Methods Of Diagnosis

• Physical examination: Physical inspection of sores rashes or discharge in the genital area.

• Laboratory Tests: Blood tests, Urine tests, and Swabs of the genital area.

• Imaging tests: Ultrasound for complications, especially in PID.

Prevention and Protection

• Preventing STIs includes safe practices, vaccinations, and education.

• Safe Sex Practices

• Use of condoms: Reduces the risk of transmission.

• Regular testing and screenings: Early detection and treatment.

Vaccinations

• HPV vaccine: Prevents HPV-related diseases.

• Hepatitis B vaccine: Against the hepatitis B virus.

Education And Awareness

• Comprehensive sex education.

• Awareness campaigns to decrease stigma.

• About symptoms, prevention, and treatment.

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