5 Most Common Sexually Transmitted Diseases You Must Avoid
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) — or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) — are infections spread via sexual contact — vaginal, oral, or anal intercourse. Bacteria, viruses, and parasites constitute all STDs, with bacterial and viral infections being the most common. Without treatment, it can lead to severe health complications ranging from physical impairments to infertility.
In this article, we'll discuss five of the most common STDs and explain how to avoid contracting them. Prioritizing your sexual health is essential not only for your well-being but also for that of your partners.
5 Most Comon Sexually Transmitted Diseases
1. Chlamydia
It is one of the most common STDs, affecting both men and women. Often asymptomatic, some individuals may experience pain during urination, abnormal discharge, or pelvic pain in women.
If untreated, it can lead to severe health complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, which can cause infertility, and epididymitis in men, potentially leading to sterility.
It can be easily diagnosed with a urine test or a swab and treated with antibiotics. In addition, using condoms during sexual activity can help prevent transmission.
2. Gonorrhea
It is also known as "the clap," which is caused by the bacterium “Neisseria gonorrhoeae”. It can infect both men and women, often presenting with no symptoms. However, some individuals may experience pain or burning during urination, abnormal discharge, or swelling in the genital area.
If left untreated, it can cause serious health complications, such as PID in women and infertility in both sexes. Dual treatment of antibiotics is usually prescribed to treat this disease. Practicing safe sex using condoms can help reduce the risk of contracting this infection.
3. Syphilis
It is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium “Treponema pallidum”. It progresses through multiple stages if left untreated, with each stage presenting different symptoms.
The primary stage typically involves the appearance of a painless sore (chancre) at the site of infection, which resolves on its own.
The secondary stage is characterized by a rash on the body, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. If not treated, it can progress to the latent stage, where it may remain dormant for years before progressing to the potentially life-threatening tertiary stage, causing damage to the heart, brain, and other organs.
It can be diagnosed through blood tests and is treatable with antibiotics. Using condoms can help prevent the transmission of it.
4. Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
It is a group of viruses that can cause warts on the genital area and is the most common cause of cervical cancer in women. There are more than 100 types of HPV, with some strains being low-risk and others being high-risk.
Low-risk strains cause genital warts, while high-risk strains may lead to cancer. Most infections clear up on their own, but some persist and may cause health complications.
HPV vaccines are available and recommended for both males and females to protect against the most common high-risk strains. Condoms can help reduce the risk of transmission, but they do not provide complete protection.
5. Trichomoniasis
It is a parasitic infection caused by the protozoan parasite “Trichomonas vaginalis”. It is more common in women, but men can also be infected. Many people with this disease have no symptoms, but some may experience itching, burning, or discharge.
If untreated, it can lead to more severe health problems, such as PID in women and prostatitis in men. It can be diagnosed through a physical examination and laboratory tests and treated with antibiotics. Using condoms during sexual activity can help prevent the transmission of it.
Other Notable Types of STDs
While the five mentioned above are the most common STDs, there are other notable types of STDs that you should be aware of:
HIV
Human immunodeficiency virus is a serious virus that targets the immune system. After several years (even decades) of infection, it leads to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). It can be transmitted through sexual contact, sharing needles, or from an infected mother to her child during childbirth or breastfeeding.
Bacterial Vaginosis
A common vaginal infection in women, bacterial vaginosis is caused by an imbalance of naturally occurring bacteria in the vagina. Common symptoms include itching, a burning sensation, and a foul-smelling discharge.
Genital Herpes
Caused by the herpes simplex virus, it leads to painful sores and blisters in the genital area.
Hepatitis B
Primarily transmitted via sexual contact or exposure to infected blood, this viral infection can cause liver failure, cirrhosis, and liver cancer if left untreated.
Early detection and proper treatment are critical in managing these sexually transmitted infections and preventing their spread.
Consult a primary care doctor if you suspect you may have an STD.
Final Thoughts
STDs are on the rise! Identifying the underlying symptoms, practicing safe sex, and seeking immediate medical treatment is critical to avoiding the most severe consequences.
Regular testing, open communication with partners, and practicing safe sex by using condoms can significantly reduce the risk of contracting or transmitting the disease.
If you suspect you may be at risk of sexually transmitted diseases or need guidance on sexual health, don't hesitate to reach out to OSRA Medical for professional advice and care tailored to your needs.