Wednesday is World Sexual Health Day. In recognising this day on the calendar, we take a look at a subject many people prefer not to talk about when it comes to sex, sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
When one becomes sexually active it’s vital that you understand what you can be exposing yourself to when you don’t use a condom.
STIs can have serious health consequences if left untreated.
Despite advancements in medical science and increased awareness, many people remain uninformed or misinformed about STIs.
This lack of knowledge can lead to increased transmission rates and negative health outcomes.
Here we provide essential information about the most common STIs, their symptoms and possible treatments.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection, with various strains, some of which are linked to cervical cancer.
Symptoms
Most HPV infections are asymptomatic.
However, some strains may cause genital warts and changes in cervical cells which is detectable through Pap smears.
Treatment
There is no cure for HPV itself, but warts can be treated through topical medications, cryotherapy, or surgical removal.
Vaccines are available to protect against the most dangerous strains.
Chlamydia
Chlamydia is one of the most prevalent STDs caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis.
Symptoms
Many people with chlamydia may not exhibit symptoms.
However, when symptoms do occur, they can include:
- Unusual watery genital discharge
- Abdominal pain
- Pain during intercourse
- Bleeding between periods
Treatment
Chlamydia is treatable with antibiotics.
It is important that sexual partners are also treated to prevent reinfection.
Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is another common bacterial STD caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
Symptoms
Similar to chlamydia, many individuals show no symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Increased vaginal or penile discharge
- Painful urination
- Swollen or painful testicles in men
- Pelvic pain in women
Treatment
Gonorrhea is treated with antibiotics, usually a combination of ceftriaxone and azithromycin, to effectively combat resistant strains.
Syphilis
Syphilis is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It progresses through stages if left untreated.
Symptoms
The symptoms vary by stage:
- Primary stage: A painless sore at the site of infection.
- Secondary stage: Rashes, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue.
- Latent Stage: No symptoms; can last for years.
- Tertiary Stage: Severe complications affecting the heart, brain, and other organs.
Treatment
Syphilis is typically treated with penicillin, an antibiotic that is highly effective, especially in the early stages.
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
HIV attacks the immune system, leading to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) if untreated.
Symptoms
Early symptoms may resemble flu-like symptoms, including:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Rash
As HIV progresses, symptoms may not appear for years until it severely weakens the immune system.
Opportunistic infections and cancers are common in later stages.
Treatment
While there is no cure for HIV, antiretroviral therapy (ART) can effectively manage the virus, allowing individuals to lead healthy lives.
Herpes simplex virus (HSV)
Herpes is caused by two types of viruses: HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 typically causes oral herpes, while HSV-2 is more often associated with genital herpes.
Symptoms
- Painful blisters or sores in the genital or oral area
- Itching or irritation
- Flu-like symptoms during initial outbreaks
Treatment
There is no cure for herpes, but antiviral medications can help manage symptoms and reduce outbreak frequency.