Sexually transmitted diseases can be serious problems and are often underdiagnosed. Left untreated, they can cause organ damage, cancer, and infertility. These infections can even cause severe damage to fetuses and children. While the vast majority of these infections can be successfully treated, the development of antibiotic resistance remains an issue.
Symptoms
STIs are sexually transmitted infections that can be spread through sexual contact and blood transfusion. These infections can cause symptoms including itching, burning, and discharge from the vagina and genitalia. If you are experiencing these symptoms, you may need to see a doctor. In some cases, these symptoms can improve over time.
If left untreated, syphilis can remain in the body for years and cause organ damage, paralysis, and mental disorders. In some cases, sexually transmitted diseases can result in the onset of genital herpes. This disease is caused by two types of viruses: the Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 and the Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2. It is transmitted through oral sex.
A healthcare provider can perform a screening for STIs. He or she will ask about your symptoms and sexual history. It is important to be honest with your healthcare provider when answering these questions. An honest response will help reduce your risk of spreading the disease and keep you healthy. The healthcare provider may also order a blood test or urine sample to determine the presence of bacterial or viral infection.
Treatment
The prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases is a top priority for public health officials. Yet, not all people take care of their sexual health. Some are at risk for contracting these diseases even if they live with only one partner. Fortunately, there are many treatment options available. Treatment for sexually transmitted diseases can be done at your local health clinic or a specialist clinic.
Depending on the type of sexually transmitted infection, antibiotics are often prescribed. Treatment for chlamydia and herpes is also available. Symptomatic treatment with over-the-counter anti-itch creams may also be helpful. If you do contract an STI, it is essential to stay away from sexual intercourse while you are being treated. This way, you will be protecting your partner from contracting the disease.
Syphilis is a serious condition with symptoms that vary from person to person. It usually starts as a small, painless sore in the mouth or genital area. In severe cases, the sore can become painful, and there may be a rash or fever. If left untreated, it can cause organ damage. Antibiotic treatment can cure the infection, and prevent it from spreading to other people.
Prevention
It is very important to practice preventive measures against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). This is because most people will contract one at some point in their lives. Among young adults, the risk is even higher. Although many STDs are curable, others can lead to serious health issues if they are not treated.
Research on new vaccines against genital herpes and HIV is well underway. However, more work is needed to develop vaccines against gonorrhea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis. Biomedical interventions such as male circumcision and partner treatment are also being investigated. In addition, ongoing clinical trials are evaluating the benefits and harms of pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV infection.
Some STIs, like HPV, can be prevented through vaccination. While HPV does not have symptoms, it is important to get vaccinated against this disease, since it can lead to genital warts and cancer. Hepatitis A and B are also preventable, but they can cause liver cancer. It is recommended that sexually active women and men, age 13 to 64, get tested for HIV annually. Additionally, chlamydia screening should be done annually for women under 25 and yearly for older women with risk factors.