Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections and viruses that are spread through sexual contact. There are numerous STDs, each with its own set of signs and health risks. Even though it can be embarrassing to talk about, it's crucial that you know about the most common STDs so that you can protect both yourself and your sexual partners.
It is essential to keep in mind that not all sexually transmitted diseases cause symptoms, and some can go undetected for weeks or even months after infection. If you are sexually active, it is critical to undergo regular STD testing, particularly if you have numerous partners or practice unprotected sex. In this article, we will discuss 10 common STDs that you should be aware of.
1. Chlamydia
Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases around the world. It is transmitted through sexual intercourse and is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. Chlamydia symptoms include painful urination, vaginal or penile discharge, and abdominal pain. Untreated chlamydia can cause severe health issues such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and fertility problems.
2. Gonorrhea
Another common STD caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae is gonorrhea. It can also be transmitted through sexual intercourse and lead to painful urination, discharge from the penis or vagina, and a sore throat. If gonorrhea is not treated in time, it can cause severe health issues such as PID and infertility.
3. Human papillomavirus (HPV)
HPV is a common virus that is transmitted through sexual intercourse. It may result in genital warts and is linked to a higher chance of certain cancers, including cervical cancer. Although there is no treatment for HPV, there is a vaccine that can protect against infection with the most common strains of the virus.
4. Herpes
Herpes is a virus that spreads through sex. It may result in painful blisters or lesions on the mouth, anus, or genitalia. Antiviral medicines can help to control herpes symptoms and lower the risk of spread to sexual partners, but there is currently no cure for the condition.
5. Syphilis
Syphilis is a bacterial infection that is transmitted through sexual intercourse. It can lead to the development of a variety of signs such as genital sores, a rash, and fever. Without treatment, syphilis can cause serious medical problems such as brain, heart, and organ damage.
6. Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that can be transmitted through sexual intercourse, needle sharing, or contact with infected blood or secretions from the body. It can result in a variety of signs such as fever, fatigue, and jaundice. Hepatitis B can also cause severe complications like liver damage and liver cancer. Fortunately, there is a vaccine that can help prevent infection with this virus.
7. Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is a virus that spreads through contact with contaminated blood or secretions from the body. It can result in a variety of signs such as fever, fatigue, and jaundice. Like hepatitis B, hepatitis C can also cause severe health issues like liver injury and liver cancer. However, there is no vaccine that can help prevent infection with this type of hepatitis.
8. HIV
HIV is a viral infection that is transmitted through contact with infected blood, sperm, vaginal secretions, or breast milk. It can result in a variety of signs such as fever, fatigue, and lymph node swelling. HIV may result in severe health issues like AIDS by weakening the immune system and making it difficult for the body to battle infections.
9. Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is a disease caused by a parasite that is transmitted through sexual intercourse. It may lead to signs like vaginal or penile discharge, itching, and pain during urination. Untreated trichomoniasis can cause severe health issues such as infertility.
10. Pubic lice
Pubic lice, also known as crabs, are parasitic insects that live in pubic hair. They are transmitted through close contact with an infected person. Pubic lice symptoms include itching and the appearance of tiny, pale, or reddish-brown bugs in the pubic hair. Pubic lice treatment usually consists of using over-the-counter medicines that are specially made to eliminate the lice and their eggs.