Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD)

Each and everyone of us has heard the dangers of STDs, but how many of us really know everything there is to know about these? These diseases are transmitted from people to each other during sexual intercourse. These diseases are transmitted during any form of sexual intercourse, be it vaginal, anal or even oral. But remember, it can be contracted only when a person indulges in sexual intercourse with another person who already had an STD, but there are some like scabies, which can be passed through contact as well. They are sometimes referred to as STI, which stands for sexually transmitted infection. The reason this term is used is because there are cases like those in chlamydia, where an STD is similar to an infection.

There is no immediate understanding of these diseases. One has to always be on the lookout for symptoms. One should be more aware of the symptoms, if his/her partner has one of these sexually transmitted diseases. It is best to get these treated as soon as possible so as to avoid any further complications that may arise out of non-treatment, such as infertility. In some cases, it can be transmitted from a mother to her unborn child, which can be avoided through proper treatment.

Different Types of STDs

Bacterial Vaginosis
Though this cannot be in strict terms be called an STD, it is a disease that cannot be transmitted though sexual intercourse, but can be aggravated because of it. BV is an STD that affects only women and can be detected only because of the strange fishy smelling discharge. No one knows how BV starts, but it is said that it can be caused due to the acidic imbalance in the vagina, and this could be because of semen or intrauterine contraceptives. BV cannot be passed on to a man, but treatment has to be prompt so as to avoid serious damage to the uterus and fallopian tubes.

Chlamydia
This Sexually transmitted infection is the most common, and occurs because of the presence of chlamydia trachomatis bacterium in the body. It can affect both men and women and if it is not treated properly can cause infertility. Chlamydia is transmitted through sexual intercourse and also through genital contact. The best way to cure chlamydia is to get help as soon as possible.

Crabs
Crabs are pubic lice that are called so because of their crab like appearance. These lice are extremely tine and can barely be seen by the naked eye, and are found on rough body hair like the pubic hair, armpit hair and even facial hair. These crabs or lice are grayish yellow in color and grab at hair strands with their claws. Crabs can easily be passed on through sexually intercourse and sharing of clothes, bedding and towels. Symptoms of crabs are - itching of the skin, inflammation of skin and spots of blood from where the lice have been feeding. Treatment of crabs is easy and does not require removal of hair.

Genital Warts
These are warts or bumps caused on the skin, normally in the genital area by some form of human papillomavirus (HPV). These warts are large, flesh colored and painless. They will itch and may be difficult to find and this is why most people do not even realize they have genital warts. In case a woman has genital warts on the cervix, it can lead to discharge and bleeding. It is important to get the right medical attention for genital warts.

Gonorrhea
Once known as clap, this is an infection that can infect the urethra, cervix, rectum, anus and even the throat. The symptoms are:

• Burning while urinating.
• Discharge from penis that is white or yellow in color.
• Change in color of vaginal discharge.
• Discharge from the anus along with irritation.

Herpes
Herpes can be caused by two different types if viruses. The HSV-1 virus affecting the genital and anal regions and the HSV-2 affecting the mouth and lips a lot like cold sores. HSV-2 is a more common form of STD and research claims that one out of every five Americans gets herpes. There are some symptoms of herpes, these are:

• Itching and tingling of the genital and anal area.
• Blisters and sores.
• Pain while urinating, especially in women.
• Headaches and backaches, also accompanied by flu-like symptoms.

Syphilis
This is a common bacterial infection that is caused by the bacteria treponema pallidum, which was once known as pox. It is a sexually transmitted disease but can also be transmitted from a pregnant woman to her unborn child. If syphilis is not treated in time, it can become more severe and sometimes lead to death. There are various stages of syphilis. There are symptoms of syphilis, these are:

• Ulcers that are painless but occur on the genital region, anus and mouth.
• Lumps in the groin.
• Rash that isn't itchy.
• Fever and other flu-like symptoms.

These were the different types we saw. You must understand the severity of these diseases. If not treated in time, they can be horrible to live with. This tells us the amount of awareness we should have regarding our health. Do not self-diagnose, consult a doctor as soon as you see any sign or symptom mentioned above.