STD - Sexually transmitted diseases
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), also known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are infections primarily spread through sexual contact. They are caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, or yeast. More than 20 types of STDs have been identified, including chlamydia, genital herpes, gonorrhea, HIV/AIDS, human papillomavirus (HPV), syphilis, and trichomoniasis.
STDs can affect individuals of all genders, but complications tend to be more severe in women. During pregnancy, certain STDs can pose significant health risks to the baby. While bacterial, yeast, and parasitic infections are generally treatable with antibiotics, viral STDs are not curable but can be effectively managed with antiviral therapy to reduce symptoms and transmission.
HIV/AIDS
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) attacks the immune system by destroying white blood cells that help fight infections. If untreated, HIV can progress to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS)—the most advanced stage of HIV infection. Not all individuals with HIV will develop AIDS.
Transmission:
Unprotected sexual contact
Sharing needles
Exposure to infected blood
Mother-to-child during pregnancy or childbirth
Symptoms:
Early: Flu-like symptoms, swollen lymph nodes (within 2–4 weeks of infection)
Advanced: May remain asymptomatic for years before symptoms appear
Syphilis
Syphilis is a bacterial infection transmitted through sexual contact or from mother to baby during pregnancy. It progresses in stages:
Primary Stage: A single painless sore and possible lymph node swelling
Secondary Stage: Non-itchy rash, often on the hands and feet
Latent Stage: No visible symptoms, but the infection remains active
If left untreated, syphilis can cause serious complications and increases the risk of HIV infection and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Hepatitis B & C
Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver, often caused by viral infection, but also linked to autoimmune disorders, toxins, and alcohol.
Hepatitis B:
Transmitted through sexual contact, shared needles, or from mother to baby
Risk is higher among unvaccinated individuals and those with multiple partners
Hepatitis C:
Less commonly spread through sexual contact
Risk increases with co-existing STDs, multiple partners, anal sex, or HIV co-infection
CDC recommends hepatitis C screening at least once for all adults
Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is a bacterial STD most commonly seen in young adults. It can infect the genital tract, rectum, throat, and may be transmitted during childbirth.
Symptoms:
Men: Painful urination, penile discharge
Women: Often mild or unnoticed early on, progressing to pelvic pain, bleeding, or vaginal discharge
Untreated gonorrhea can lead to infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and increased susceptibility to HIV.
Genital Herpes
Caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), genital herpes is spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex, even in the absence of visible sores. Transmission during childbirth is also possible.
Symptoms:
Painful blisters or open sores
Burning or itching sensations
Flu-like symptoms during initial outbreaks
While the virus remains in the body for life, the frequency and severity of outbreaks typically diminish over time. Many individuals remain asymptomatic.
Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is a common STD caused by a parasitic protozoa and transmitted through sexual contact.
Symptoms:
Women: Vaginal discharge (yellow-green or gray), unpleasant odor, pain during urination or intercourse, itching
Men: Often asymptomatic, but may experience urethral discharge or painful urination
Chlamydia
Chlamydia is a bacterial STD spread via vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It is highly prevalent, particularly among individuals aged 14–24.
Transmission:
Carried in semen, vaginal fluids, and pre-ejaculate
Can infect the genitals, throat, eyes, or rectum
Complications (if untreated):
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
Infertility
Increased risk of ectopic pregnancy
Because chlamydia often presents no symptoms, regular screening is essential.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
HPV is a group of over 200 related viruses, with around 40 types affecting the genital region. It is the most common STD globally.
Types:
Low-risk strains: Cause genital warts
High-risk strains: Associated with cervical, anal, throat, and other genital cancers
Symptoms:
Most individuals have no visible symptoms
Persistent infection may lead to abnormal cell changes and cancer
Prevention and Screening:
Regular Pap smears and HPV tests can detect early changes
Vaccination is available and highly effective in preventing several cancer-causing HPV strains
