Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Infections are caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites.
Untreated STDs can develop into pelvic inflammatory disease in women (PID), genital or anal warts, and cancer.
How Are Sexually Transmitted Diseases Spread?
STDs are spread mainly through sexual contact with an infected person. STD infection can be spread through kissing, intercourse, genital touching, or oral and anal sex.
STD infections include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, HPV, and HIV.
STDs and STIs can also be spread by blood transfusions, during childbirth, through breast milk and donor transplants.
What Are Signs & Symptoms of Sexually Transmitted Disease?
Some STDs and STIs have no symptoms and most people don’t know they are infected. The most common signs and symptoms of STDs are a vaginal or penile discharge and moderate to severe pelvic pain. Other signs and symptoms include:
- Burning pain or itching during urination
- Flu-like symptoms that persist for days or weeks
- Cold sores or fever blisters in or around mouth
- Ulcers or warts on or around the genitals and anus
- Purulent green or yellow discharge from vagina or penis
- Rash on or around the genitals
- Visible tiny crabs in pubic hair
- Cervical cancers
- Swollen glands in neck area that are painful to the touch
- Swollen lymph glands in groin area that may or may not be painful to the touch
- Headaches or backaches
- Pain in abdomen, side, lower back
- Low grade fever or productive cough
How Are STDs Treated?
Sexually transmitted diseases are treated with antibiotics and anti-viral medications in the form of creams, ointments, pills, intravenous fluids or injections.
The best prevention for STDs is abstinence until you are married and ready to raise a family.
Consult with your doctor or health provider if you believe you have been infected with an STD. You can also get screenings and treatment for STDs at your local clinic.
DISCLAIMER
Medical information published on this blog is for your general information only, It is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice. You should consult with your personal physician or a health care provider.