Sexually Transmitted Diseases : Types, Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Even in the 21^st century, we still consider it as a taboo to discuss Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), even with a medical professional. It is still considered as highly controversial. Until and unless people openly talk about this and get treated immediately , this illness will keep spreading since this is a highly contagious disease. Have you ever pondered about the incidence rates of STDs in India each year? Well, the count may leave you speechless.

According to reports, about 6 percent of the adult population in India are infected with the STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections) every year. Around the world, about 374 million people get affected with STIs each year. So, more than 1 million STIs are transmitted every day around the world, of which the majority are asymptomatic.

According to survey done by the IP Indian Journal of Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, males continue to account for a higher proportion of those infected with Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), with the male-to-female ratio still being at 1.5:1 in 2020 and rising to 1.9:1 in 2021. Patients with sexually transmitted diseases tend to be married, with a mean age group of 36 years.

Now, let us move on to discuss what causes this highly contagious asymptomatic disease, what are the types of it, and how it can be cured.

What are STDs?

Sexually Transmitted Diseases are contagious infections that can be passed from one person to another by any form of sexual contact. They are extremely prevalent, and many people with them show no signs of illness. Symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can worsen rapidly if they are not treated. Fortunately, most STDs can be treated quickly and easily, and getting tested is not a huge problem either.

Types of STDs

While STDs have many different types like Gonorrhea, Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, Hepatitis B, HPV and Genital Warts, the below mentioned are the most prevalent and common ones.

• AIDS/HIV

Acute immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a disease caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). HIV destroys T-cells, a key component of the immune system, leaving you defenseless against even relatively mild infections. The HIV virus can exist in a person without causing any noticeable signs or symptoms. 

• Chlamydia

Chlamydia is one of the common sexually transmitted infections that can occur due to intercourse or oral sex. Though it is asymptomatic, it is important to get treatment as quick as possible.

• Herpes Genitalis

Genital Herpes is the most common STD condition and is caused by the herpes simplex virus. It is a chronic illness that lasts as long as the host lives after infection. The common symptom are the sores, which can continue for up to ten days. When it comes to controlling breakouts, some people opt for antiviral medication.

• Syphilis

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that can be treated with medication. Without treatment, syphilis can cause serious health problems. It can permanently hurt your heart, brain, muscles, bones, and eyes. Always use a condom during sex to lower your chance of getting an infection.

Causes

An STD is caused by a Sexually Transmitted Infection. These infections usually get transmitted via sexual contact, including through bodily fluids or skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, oral, and anal sex. Some of them never turn into diseases, especially if they are treated, and they can even go away on their own.

Symptoms

Infections transmitted sexually (STDs) can cause a wide range of symptoms according to the various types . In most cases, you may not experience any symptoms. If you do have symptoms, they might show up around your genital area and could include:

• Painful intercourse
• Unusual discharge from penis and vagina
• Itching or bumps near your genital area
• Sores or warts near your mouth, penis, vagina, or anus.
• Unusual vaginal bleeding
  

You may also experience other symptoms like, fever, diarrhea, weight loss, skin rashes and jaundice.

Risk Factors

Some of the factors that might increase the risk of STI include,

• Unprotected Sex
• Having multiple partners
• Sharing needles
• Having history of STIs

When you and your partner do not talk about your STI because of embarrassment or stigma, you both put yourselves at risk. So, it is better that you and your partner have an open conversation about STDs and ask each other some questions about their sexual health.

Complications

Screening for STIs is necessary since many people have no symptoms in the initial stages of an STD or STI.

Potential problems consist of:

• Pain in the genital area
• Prenatal Problems
• Inflammation of the eyes
• Arthritis
• Chronic pelvic inflammation
• Infertility
• Cardiovascular disease

Prevention

The ways of preventing the infection include,

• Using condoms and dental dams consistently
• Choosing sex partners carefully
• Getting checked for STIs regularly
• Getting vaccinated
• Avoid alcohol or drugs before sex
• Communicate with your partner

Treatment

Typically, a single oral dose of antibiotics is all that is needed for treatment. The use of a vaginal suppository or topical ointment may also be recommended by the doctor.

Certain antibiotics, such as metronidazole (Flagyl) and tinidazole, can eliminate parasites from the body (Tindamax). People using metronidazole should avoid consuming alcohol since it can increase the risk of side effects such as stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. The treatment might also include surgery or laser options.

You might experience discomfort when discussing STDs with your doctor face-to-face. So, you may utilize our platform that provides the opportunity to consult with a Gynaecologist or a Urologist/ Andrologist online.