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Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)

Sexually Transmitted Diseases are also called as STDs, or STIs (sexually transmitted infections) .These infections can be transferred from one person to another through sexual contact. There are over 15 million cases of STD cases reported in the United States annually.

STDs may have severe consequences, if not treated on time, that is why it is very important to go for STD testing and treatment. Some STDs may cause Pelvic inflammatory disease, which can cause infertility while others may prove to be fatal. STDs can be prevented by refraining from sex and using condoms. The following are the most common of STDs :

Human Papilloma Virus:

It is one of the main causes of cervical cancer. It has also been linked with other types of cancers of the female reproductive system, that has no cure presently.

Chancroid :

Chancroid is a highly contagious sexually transmitted disease (or STD), but it is curable. It is caused by a bacteria called Haemophilus Ducreyi. Chancroid causes ulcers or sores, usually of the genitals. Swollen, painful lymph glands in the groin area are often associated with chancroid. Left untreated, chancroid may make the transmission of HIV easier.

Herpes Virus:

It is another STD that presently has no cure. But, treatment is available to control it and there are a number of things at home to help relieve your genital herpes. Symptoms include blisters or sores that periodically break out on the genitals.

Hepatitis:

Although there is no cure for those already infected, there is a Hepatitis B(HB V) vaccine available to prevent the spread of this infection.

HIV/AIDS:

It is one of the most deadliest of STDs. HIV can be transmitted through the blood, sexual fluids, or breast milk of an HIV-infected person. People can get HIV if one of these fluids enters the bloodstream. It can be passed during unprotected sex with an HIV-infected person. An HIV-infected mother is likely to transmit HIV to her infant during pregnancy, delivery or breastfeeding. People can also become infected with HIV when using injection drugs through sharing needles and other equipment.

While new ways of treating this infection can prolong an infected person's life, for some time, but HIV may eventually progress to AIDS and, ulitmately, death. However, you can take steps to prevent this infection.

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

refers to infection of the uterus (womb), fallopian tubes and other reproductive organs. It is a common and serious complication of some sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), especially chlamydia and gonorrhea. PID can damage the fallopian tubes and tissues in and near the uterus and ovaries. If left untreated PID can lead to serious consequences including infertility and ectopic pregnancy, abscess formation, and chronic pelvic pain.

The more sex partners a woman has, the greater will be her risk of developing PID. Also, a woman whose partner has more than one sex partner is at greater risk of developing PID.

Crabs :

They are also known as pubic lice. They are small parasites that feed on human blood. Anyone can get crabs. A person can get crabs during sexual contact with a person who has crabs.

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

is the name of a condition in women where the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted and there is an overgrowth of certain bacteria leading to excess discharge, odor, pain, itching, or burning. It is the most common vaginal infection in women of childbearing age.

Syphilis:

Nowadays, syphilis can easily be treated and cured. However, without treatment, the symptoms can progress and affect the nervous system and brain leading to dementia and even death.

Trichomoniasis:

It is one of the most common, curable STDs. However, symptoms of this may be mistaken for a yeast infection and women may use the wrong type of treatment for her vaginal discharge.

Common Infections:

Chlamydia and gonorrhea often infect a person at the same time. If you are testing for chlamydia, you must also test for gonorrhea at the same time. Chlamydia can be transmitted during vaginal, anal, and less likely, oral sex. Gonorrhea is a curable infection caused by the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoea. Gonorrhea may also be transmitted during vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Both these STDs can be cured but can also damage your reproductive system if left untreated.

See the doctor :

If you have a prolonged illness or observe any of the symptoms, go and see your doctor as soon as possible. STDs can be prevented and treated if diagnosed on time properly.

Tips to avoid getting STDs: