According to WHO, more than 1 million sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are acquired every day around the world, the majority of which are asymptomatic.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are a group of infectious diseases that are passed from one person to another through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Some STDs can be transmitted by other means as well, such as from mother to baby during pregnancy or breastfeeding. All STDs are caused by Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), but some of them never become diseases, especially if they’re treated, and they can even go away on their own.
There are multiple kinds of STDs, which can be divided into three groups: bacterial, viral, and parasitic. Bacterial STDs are caused by bacteria and include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis. Viral STDs are caused by viruses and include HIV/AIDS, genital herpes, genital warts, and viral hepatitis. Parasitic STDs are caused by parasites and include pubic lice (crabs), scabies (mites), or hookworms.
STDs don’t always cause symptoms or may only cause mild symptoms. So it is possible to have an infection and not know it. But you can still pass it on to others. Symptoms of STDs vary depending on the type of infection and the person’s immune system. Some common symptoms include unusual discharge from the penis or vagina, sores or warts on the genital area, painful or frequent urination, itching and redness in the genital area, blisters or sores in or around the mouth, abnormal vaginal odor, fever, etc.
Sexually transmitted diseases are one of the leading causes of illness and death worldwide. They are highly prevalent, especially among young people, and can lead to infertility, cancer, and other serious health consequences. Most STDs affect both men and women, but in many cases, the health problems they cause can be more severe for women. If a pregnant woman has an STD, it can cause serious health problems for the baby.
Some STDs are curable with medical treatment, while others can be managed to control symptoms and reduce the risk of transmission. Antibiotics can treat diseases such as Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Syphilis, and Trichomoniasis. 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.
Prevention of STDs is not just about wearing a condom. It is also about being aware of the risks and taking preventive measures to avoid contracting an STD. The most important way to avoid STDs is to abstain from sexual intercourse or to be in a mutually monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner. If this is not possible, then use latex condoms or other barrier methods every time you have sex. Vaccines are safe, effective, and recommended ways to prevent hepatitis B and HPV.
So, the best way to prevent getting infected with STDs is to get regularly screened and practice safer sex. And if you test positive for any STD, seek treatment as soon as possible.
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