Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), also known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are transmitted through sexual contact from one person to another. They are contracted through blood, semen, vaginal fluids, or even from mother to child at delivery or breastfeeding. Most STDs do not show signs and are not treatable at home. You, therefore, need to visit your doctor for Upper West Side STD testing and early treatment, as some of them can lead to long-term health conditions. Here is what you need to know about STIs.
Causes
Different factors cause STDs, which include:
- Bacteria: Examples of diseases caused by bacteria are gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia.
- Parasites: Trichomoniasis is an STD caused by a parasite.
- Viruses: HPV, HIV, and genital herpes are STIs caused by viruses.
Symptoms
Some sexually transmitted infections will not show signs in the early stages. However, the following symptoms may occur.
- Abnormal discharge from the penis or vagina
- Pain during sex
- Pain or burning when urinating
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Lower abdominal pain
- Sores on the genitals
Prevention
There are various ways of preventing STIs, and here are some.
Abstain. Abstaining means not having sex. It is the most effective way to prevent STDs.
Use of condoms. The use of latex condoms helps prevent STIs. Ensure the condom you use is new and does not include oil-based lubricants.
Have sex with only one uninfected partner. Ensure the person you are practicing sex with is not infected with an STD and maintain that one partner.
Vaccination. Vaccinations are available for HPV, hepatitis A, and hepatitis D infections. Getting them before exposing yourself to sexual acts will aid in preventing these STDs.
Male circumcision. There is a 60% possibility that a circumcised man will reduce the risk of contracting HIV from a woman with HIV. Male circumcision also prevents genital herpes.
Use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Your doctor will only prescribe the use of this drug if you are HIV-free. It only prevents HIV.
Communication. Always talk to your partner before having sex. Discuss the safe activities to be included and avoid unsafe practices.
Treatment
It is possible to treat sexually transmitted diseases caused by bacteria. STIs caused by viruses are not treatable, but the symptoms are manageable. The following medications are prescribed by your doctor depending on your infection type.
Antibiotics: STDs caused by parasites and bacteria are treatable by the use of antibiotics. Make sure you finish and take your drugs as prescribed by your doctor. It is essential to abstain from sex until you have completed your dose. It is advisable to get a retest as advised by your doctor to ensure that the infection has not recurred.
Antiviral drugs: Antiviral drugs will not cure your infection, but they will lower the viral load in your body. These drugs are effective in HIV and herpes infection. Although HIV is hardly detected after taking antiviral drugs, you can still transmit it to your partner. It is advisable always to use the best protection method when having sex with your partner to avoid disease transmission.
Since most STDs do not show signs, getting regular checkups and correct treatment with your doctor is safe. Call the office of Karen F. Brodman, MD, to schedule your appointment on any STD-related issue.
