“Do I have an STI?” Stop Wondering and Find Out.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections that pass from one person to another through sexual contact. They are also known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or venereal diseases (VD).

Some STIs can also spread:

• through the use of unsterilized drug needles
• from mother to infant during childbirth or breast-feeding stage
• through blood transfusions

Yeasts, viruses and bacteria grow in the genital areas, which are generally moist and warm making them ideal environments for these organisms. During sexual intercourse, microorganisms inside the skin or mucous membranes of the genitals are transmitted. Infectious organisms can also transfer between people through semen, blood or vaginal discharge during sex. STDs are transmitted more easily during unprotected sex where there is no use of contraceptive devices, such as condoms.

• Chlamydia : the bacterial STD and most common infectious cause of genital and eye diseases globally.
• Chancroid: is a bacterial infection causing painful sores on the genitals.
• Pubic lice (crabs): attach to the pubic hair, and may also be sometimes found in the armpits, mustache, beard, eyelashes, and eyebrows. They feed on human blood.
• Genital Herpes: is a chronic condition that affects the skin, cervix, genitals, and some other parts of the body causing blisters and ulceration, vaginal discharge.
• Hepatitis B: is transmitted through contact with infected semen, blood, and other bodily fluids. It causes the liver to swell, possible liver damage and can progress to cancer.
• Trichomoniasis: is a common STD that can affect both sexes but women are more likely to experience symptoms. A woman with the condition is more likely to acquire HIV.
• HIV and AIDS: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) attacks the immune system, leaving its host much more vulnerable to infections and diseases. If the virus is left untreated, the susceptibility to infection worsens.
• Human papillomavirus (HPV): is a name for a group of viruses that affect the skin and mucous membranes, such as the throat, cervix, anus, and mouth. HPV infection can lead to: genital warts and abnormal cell growth and alteration within the cervix, significantly increasing the risk of cervical cancer.
• Scabies: is a contagious skin condition caused by Sarcoptes scabiei, a tiny mite. They burrow into the skin and lay their eggs. A person with scabies develops a skin rash and experiences intense itchiness.
• Syphilis: is transmitted by sexual contact, and the person passing on the infection will have a syphilitic lesion. Each stage of syphilis has characteristic signs and symptoms. Some people with syphilis show no symptoms, while others may experience more mild presentations.
• Gonorrhea: This sexually transmitted bacterial infection usually attacks the mucous membranes. It is also known as the clap or the drip. As soon as a person contracts gonorrhea, they risk spreading the bacteria to other parts of the body. An individual may accidentally rub their eye and spread the infection.

1. Be Monogamous with one uninfected partner: A long-term, monogamous relationship with one person who is not infected can reduce the risk of contracting an STD.
2. Check for infections: Before sexual intercourse with a new partner, check that the partner and yourself have no STDs.
3. Get vaccinated: There are vaccinations that can protect an individual from eventually developing some types of cancer that are caused by HPV and hepatitis B.
4. Drink in moderation: People who have consumed too much alcohol are more likely to engage in risky behavior. Avoid using recreational drugs, which may also affect judgment.
5. Communicate and take steps to ensure safe sex: Before engaging in any sexual act with a new partner, communicate that you would only consider safe sex – and, where there is any doubt, ensure both of you are tested.
6. Be abstinent: Abstaining from any sexual act is the most effective way to avoid an STD.

• bladder infection
• a change in vaginal discharge
• mild lower abdominal pain
• painful urination
• blistering or ulceration in or near the cervix, vulva or penis
• testicular pain or swelling
• a green, white, or yellow discharge from the penis
• spotting after sexual intercourse
• swelling of the vulva, or vulvitis
• irregular bleeding between periods
• pelvic pain
• painful sexual intercourse, either intermittently or every time