STIs or STDs, also referred to as sexually transmitted infections and diseases, are conditions people get from unprotected sex. STDs can be transmitted via any kind of sexual activity involving the vagina, anus, penis, or mouth.
STIs are serious medical issues that will require treatment. There are also certain STDs that can’t be cured, like HIV or human immunodeficiency virus, which requires lifelong management. Otherwise, it can be life-threatening.
In this article, we’ll discuss the most common infections, discuss STI treatment options, and share valuable tips on safe sex.
After reading the article, if you are looking for a practice specializing in obstetrics and gynecology in South Miami, Florida, you can reach out to us and learn more about safe sex, planned parenthood, and sexually transmitted diseases.
Most Common Types of STIs
Some of the most widespread sexually transmitted diseases include:
- HIV/AIDS
- Genital herpes
- Hepatitis B
- Syphilis
- Chlamydia
- Genital warts
- Gonorrhea (or the “clap”)
- Trichomoniasis (or the “trick”)
- Vaginitis
Everybody who is sexually active is at risk of developing sexually transmitted diseases. On that note, alcohol and drug use can increase the chances even further. They can cloud one’s judgment. Also, not learning about sex and treating it as a taboo may pose a risk.
To make matters worse, some people may feel embarrassment and shame about catching a disease and avoid getting the appropriate STI treatment. This way, they aren’t only compromising their own health but may also keep spreading the disease and compromising the health of their partner as well.
These diseases are pretty common, with around 20 million occurring each year, half of them in the 15 to 24 age group, with syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea being the most common issues.
STD/STI Causes and Symptoms
Essentially, these diseases develop when different types of viruses, parasites, or bacteria infect the body when sharing these microorganisms through bodily fluids during oral, anal, or vaginal sex. Some STIs like syphilis may even be transmitted to fetuses. Other STDs may be present in infected blood as well.
Sometimes, these infections may not have symptoms at all, and people may pass them on without realizing it.
When people do experience symptoms, they may include the following:
Genital signs:
- Sores, bumps, or warts near the genitals, anus, or mouth
- Redness, swelling, and itching near the genitals, mouth, or anus
- Penile discharge
- Vaginal discharge that’s a different color than usual and smells foul
- Veginal bleeding when not on period
- Painful intercourse
Other signs:
- Skin rashes
- Diarrhea, night sweats, weight loss
- Chills, fever, aches
- Jaundice
- Frequent or painful urination
It’s also important to note that while STIs are contagious, they won’t be passed through casual contact like shaking hands or sharing a bathroom, but they can be contracted through sexual contact.
Diagnosing STDs
More often than not, people either experience uncomfortable symptoms and get tested or discover that they are infected through regular STD testing.
Testing will usually depend on the type of infection you may have, which your provider will assume. They may recommend performing the following tests:
- Examining your genitals
- Urine tests
- Blood tests
- Cheek swab tests
- Fluid sample testing from any sores you may have
- Discharge or cell sample testing from the vagina, urethra, penis, cervix, throat, or anus
Some people may feel ashamed about suspecting any type of STI issue, but there’s no need to feel embarrassed as these conditions may happen to anyone.
EPT or Expedited Partner Therapy
EPT is where your doctor gives you a prescription for your sexual partner without examining them. This often happens after diagnosing gonorrhea or chlamydia. In these cases, most medical experts assume that if you have the disease, your partner also has it. With this, the doctor prevents reinfection and stops the infection from spreading.
STI Treatment
For the most part, your doctor will prescribe “STI antibiotics” in the form of oral compounds or as shots. In some cases, you might have to take both.
Once adequate treatment is administered, patients experiencing symptoms should start feeling better within a few days. You must complete the medicine usage as instructed, even when you feel improvement. Also, avoid sharing the medicine with others and don’t take others’ medication to improve your symptoms.
Fortunately, most of these infections can be simply cured with the above-mentioned STI antibiotics or with other methods. Still, you can get them again if you don’t practice safe sex. In other cases, like with HIV, patients require lifelong condition management.
Also, it’s imperative to talk to your healthcare provider if you have an STD and are pregnant.
Preventing STDs
The best way to lessen the risk of infections is to practice safe sex. On that end, only abstinence, or not having sex at all, can offer complete STD protection.
That said, those who are sexually active should:
- Use condoms
- Opt for monogamy or having sex with only one partner
- Participate in regular STD testing to prevent the spreading of any infection
- Avoid drugs and alcohol before having sex, as you may engage in more daring sexual behaviors
- Educate yourself about STI symptoms
Also, if you have been diagnosed with an infection, abstain from sex until you’ve received treatment and are fully cured. It’s imperative that you follow your doctor’s instructions regarding your STI treatment and show up at follow-ups to get rechecked. Lastly, make sure to use condoms whenever you have intercourse.
STD Testing
Regarding testing frequency, experts recommend that young adults under 25 receive yearly screenings. Regular testing helps uncover even asymptomatic infections, regain the patient’s sexual health, and stop the conditions from spreading.
The CDC recommends regular HIV screenings for every sexually active person between the ages of 13 and 64.
Possible Complications
Apart from spreading the infection, unaddressed diseases may lead to lifelong complications. For instance, HIV may lead to AIDS. Syphilis can cause damage to the nervous system, damage your organs, and may infect developing fetuses.
In women, untreated STDs may also lead to:
- Infertility
- Chronic pelvic pain and pelvic inflammatory disease
- Ectopic pregnancy
Don’t Be Ashamed to Get Help and Learn
STDs and STIs are common and manifest as unusual and foul-smelling discharge, burning, and itching around the genitals. They can be quickly addressed by taking antibiotics and following your doctor’s instructions.
In the majority of cases, they can be cured without any long-term issues, but in the case of some conditions like HIV, patients may need lifelong treatment and management.
To reduce the risk of contracting any sexual infections, using a condom and practicing safe sex guidelines is highly advised by all medical experts.
On that note, if you have any unanswered questions or concerns regarding safe sex, feel free to reach out to our practice and schedule a consultation with us.