Medline.gov says that sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), which are now called sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are infections that can be passed from one person to another through sexual contact. Most of the time, they are spread through oral, vaginal, or anal sex. But sometimes, they can spread through other sexual contacts with the penis, vagina, mouth, or anus. This is because STDs like herpes and HPV can be spread through skin-to-skin contact.
Some STIs can be passed on to the baby by a woman who is pregnant or just gave birth. STIs can also be passed from one person to another through breastfeeding, sharing needles, or getting a blood transfusion. Health.gov said that STIs could be stopped. Even so, it is thought that there are more than 20 million new cases every year in the United States, and the rates are going up. STIs are more likely to happen to teens, young adults, and men who have sex with other men. STIs don’t always cause symptoms or may be very mild. So you can have an infection and not know about it. STDs can be harmful even if you don’t have any symptoms and can be passed on through sex.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), also known as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), are infections that are spread through sexual contact. They can be caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi. STIs can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, or oral sex and through skin-to-skin contact with infected areas.
Some common STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, genital herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B and C, and HIV. Symptoms of STIs can vary depending on the infection but can include genital sores, discharge, itching, pain during sex, and burning during urination. However, some STIs may not cause any symptoms at all.
Prevention is key when it comes to STIs. Practicing safe sex, such as using condoms and dental dams, can greatly reduce the risk of contracting an STI. Regular testing and prompt treatment are also important, as some STIs can lead to serious health complications if left untreated.
If you think you may have an STI, it’s important to get tested as soon as possible. Treatment for STIs typically involves antibiotics or antiviral medications, depending on the type of infection. In some cases, such as with HIV, there may not be a cure, but there are medications that can help manage the infection and prevent it from progressing to AIDS.
For more information on STIs, please visit the website below.