STI Sexually transmitted infections
STIs, also called Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) or venereal diseases, are infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites that are usually transmitted by having unprotected sex.
Examples
There are more than 20 types of STIs; some are:
- Syphilis
- Gonorrhea
- Chlamydia
- Herpes
- Chancre
- HIV
- Hepatitis B
- HPV
HIV and Hepatitis B have no cure, but their effect can be reduced if they are detected and treated in a timely manner.
Forms of infection
Although they are called sexually transmitted, there are other ways to acquire STIs, namely:
- Vaginal, oral or anal sex without condom use.
- Contact of the genitals with infected skin
- Contact with infected blood, semen or vaginal fluids
- Share needles or syringes
- Receive transfusions of contaminated blood
- He has done piercings or tattoos with contaminated items
- Dental or medical procedures, haircuts, manicures or pedicures with non-sterile instruments.
Symptom
- Burning when urinating
- Suppuration in the male genitalia
- Vaginal discharge with a different smell and color than usual
- Low abdominal pain or in the testicles
- Genital ulcers
- The appearance of pimples, warts, blisters, inflammations or unusual changes in the genitals.
If you have any of these symptoms, you should consult a health professional.
Prevention
The most common way to avoid a sexually transmitted infection is through the correct use of the condom.
Although many people stop using condoms only for ejaculation, it is recommended to use condoms for all types of genital contact of penetrative type (vaginal and anal sex) and also for the practice of oral sex, suggests sexologist in Delhi.
