STD’s (sexually transmitted diseases) also known as STI (sexually transmitted infections) are more common and their rates are higher than what most people think. It is important to be informed about; what kinds of std’s are out there, what causes them, their symptoms and the cures available. In this first part of a two part series I will cover 5 of the most commonly occurring STD’s.
1. Genital Warts (HPV): This is a virus that can cause STD without sex. The virus HPV can cause genital warts. The symptoms include pink coloured warts that maybe raised, flat, or shaped like a cauliflower, these are usually harmless and easily treated but HPV can also cause cervical or anal cancer. There are vaccines available to counter the more dangerous types of this virus.
2. Gonorrhea ( The Clap): This STD if left untreated can cause infertility in both the sexes. This is a bacterial infection which is passed during sexual activity, and an infected mother could also transmit it her newborn during vaginal childbirth. Symptoms include burning sensation during urination, skin rashes, swollen testicles, pelvic pain and spotting. It can be treated by antibiotics.
3. Syphilis: This is a highly infectious bacterial disease, this is a little tricky to diagnose as it’s symptoms mimic many diseases. The symptoms include; firm, round painless sore on the genital area or the anus, rashes on the sole, palms and other parts of the body, swollen glands, hair loss, fatigue etc. If left untreated it can cause severe damage to liver, brain, eyes, nerves and body tissues, and lead to miscarriages. Syphilis can be treated with penicillin.
4. Chlamydia: This is one of the most common STD’s, it is a bacterial infection transmitted by sexual contact. Chlamydia’s symptoms are a lot of times vague or completely absent. Some of the symptoms in women include bleeding after sexual intercourse, vaginal discharge, pain during urination. In men the symptoms include discharge from penis, swelling of testicles and burning sensation during urination. It can be treated with antibiotics.
5. Genital Herpes: This disease is caused by a virus (HSV) and is transmitted by sexual contact, it is highly infectious and has no cure though there is medication which can reduce the symptoms, which include, blisters and open sores on the genital area. This is a highly contagious disease and most people who are infected can transmit it even if the disease appears to be inactive and no sores are not visible.
STD’s or STI’s are very common, some can be easily diagnosed and some are harder, some are easily treated and some have no cure. It is important that a sexually active person is aware of the risks of being infected with these, especially if he or she is physically involved with multiple partners, so that they can take precautions to minimize the risk and to seek medical advice if they find any of the symptoms on their bodies.
In part 2 of this series I will discuss a few more STD’s and the preventive measures one can take to avoid getting infected with these diseases.
