protecting-your-partners-from-stis
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are contagious infections that can spread through sexual contact with an infected partner. The severity of STIs can vary, and in some cases, they can even be fatal. STIs are a significant health concern that affects reproductive health globally, and it often results from a lack of awareness and preventive measures.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are prevalent and can spread due to a lack of knowledge. Hence, acquiring knowledge about STIs and implementing preventive measures is crucial for sexual education to safeguard yourself and your partner.
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Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) have some differences. Infections are caused by external factors like viruses, bacteria, and parasites, while diseases are the outcome. Sexually transmitted diseases are a progression of sexually transmitted infections. In essence, every STD originates from an STI, but not all STIs lead to STDs. Some STIs may not exhibit any symptoms, while a disease can be diagnosed. However, an asymptomatic STI has the potential to develop into an STD.
Newborns can also contract STIs if the mother is infected during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding.
There are primarily eight pathogens responsible for causing STIs. Among the STIs discussed below, the first four are treatable, while the remaining four are not.
Chlamydia is a frequently occurring bacterial infection that may not exhibit any symptoms in the early stages. However, it can cause genital pain and discharge. Symptoms of chlamydia include painful urination, burning, or itching around the genital area. Treatment involves taking a single or large dose of antibiotic pills or medications.
This STI is caused by bacteria and progresses through three stages. It begins with a small sore on the genitals or mouth. In the second stage, it may develop into rashes that cover various body parts and wart-like sores. The third stage may occur years later and can affect internal organs. The bacteria can spread through contact with the sore. If left untreated, it can spread to the brain, nerves, eyes, throat, liver, heart, and other areas. Treatment aims to prevent further damage, but any damage already caused cannot be reversed.
If left untreated, gonorrhea can cause infertility. It may not exhibit any symptoms or may cause painful urination and abnormal genital discharge. Men may experience testicular pain, while women may have pain in the lower abdomen. Gonorrhea primarily affects the rectum, throat, or urethra and may also affect the cervix in women. Since it is caused by bacteria, it can be treated with antibiotics.
Trichomoniasis, commonly known as "trich," is caused by a parasite and may cause genital itching, painful urination, and foul-smelling vaginal discharge in women. Men typically do not exhibit any symptoms. Antibiotics can effectively treat trichomoniasis.
Hepatitis B is a severe STI that can impact the liver and is caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). While some individuals may experience short-term hepatitis b (acute), it can develop into a chronic condition in others. Chronic hepatitis b can cause permanent liver scarring, liver cancer, or liver failure. Symptoms of hepatitis b include fever, nausea or vomiting, and dark urine, among others. Although most adults experience acute hepatitis b, it can progress to chronic hepatitis b. The likelihood of developing chronic hepatitis b increases with age.
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is a common viral infection that affects the skin, particularly the mouth, throat, anus, and cervix in women. Genital HPV is prevalent, and genital warts are a strain of HPV that can cause symptoms like genital bleeding, flesh-like lumps in the genitals, and abnormal urination. It can also be internal and difficult to notice. While there's no cure for the virus, creams and lotions can help treat genital warts. Cancer-causing HPV strains can also be removed, and in some cases, the body naturally eliminates the virus.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is responsible for causing AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). The common symptoms of HIV include fever, sore throat, and flu-like symptoms. The virus attacks the immune system and weakens it, making it difficult for the body to fight against external infections. While there is no cure for HIV, Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) can help in slowing down the progression of the disease.
The herpes virus can cause contagious sores around the genitals and mouth, commonly known as oral or genital herpes. These conditions are characterized by painful ulcers and blisters in the affected areas, with mild to no symptoms. Although antiviral medications can treat blisters and sores, they cannot cure the infection.
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By being personally aware and practicing good hygiene and protection, it is possible to prevent STIs.
To prevent sexually transmitted infections, the most common and effective method is the use of condoms. Both men and women can use condoms, with latex condoms being the most popular choice for men. While they may not prevent infections that cause genital ulcers, condoms are highly recommended during vaginal, oral, and anal sex.
Vaccines are available for many viral infections that cause sexually transmitted infections. Ongoing studies are conducted on the pathogens responsible for these infections to find possible treatments and vaccines to prevent them. Currently, there are effective vaccines available for STIs caused by the Hepatitis B and HPV viruses.
Monogamy refers to remaining sexually active with only one partner. To prevent the spread of STIs, it is crucial for both individuals in a sexual relationship to have an honest and open conversation about their sexual history, the number of past sexual partners, and any previous infections. If both partners are STI-free, practicing monogamy, where both partners satisfy each other's sexual needs, can effectively prevent the spread of STIs.
Getting regular physical check-ups and getting tested for STIs is essential for maintaining good health and preventing the spread of STIs. It is important to get tested every time you start a new sexual relationship to ensure the safety of both you and your partner.
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Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a global problem and affect over one million people daily. For instance, HPV can cause cervical cancer in women and anal cancer in men, while gonorrhea and chlamydia can lead to pelvic inflammatory diseases and infertility in women. Hepatitis B caused 820,000 deaths in 2019. Moreover, herpes, syphilis, and gonorrhea can also increase the risk of contracting HIV. Thus, it's crucial to practice safe sex and take necessary precautions to avoid STIs. Having open and honest conversations about sex is a great starting point for practicing safe sex.
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