Sexually Transmitted Diseases

A sexually transmitted disease (STD) is an illness that has a significant probability of transmission between humans or animals by means of sexual contact, including vaginal intercourse, oral sex, and anal sex. It is also known as sexually transmitted infection (STI) or venereal disease (VD).

Causes of STDs

STDs are caused by micro-organisms such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea or viruses like genital herpes, genital warts, HIV, hepatitis B etc. These germs can be passed from one person to another during intimate physical contact especially sexual intercourse.

Transmission of STDs

STDs are transmitted through vaginal, anal or oral sex, because sex involves the exchange of bodily fluids between people. These fluids could be semen, blood or saliva. During sexual activity the organisms that cause STD are passed from the infected person to the uninfected sexual partner. Once these organisms enter the healthy person's body they begin to grow and reproduce. After some time they start to cause symptoms of the disease. Some STDs cause no symptoms, but they can still be passed from one person to another.

NB. Hygiene is very important because STDs could also be transmitted from contact with damp or moist objects such as towels, wet clothing or a toilet seat if the genital area comes into contact with these damp objects.

Symptoms of STDs

Common symptoms include:

  • unusual discharge from the vagina, penis or rectum- this may be a fluid or mucus that is bloody, looks cloudy or smells bad.
  • pain or burning during urination or intercourse
  • lower abdominal pains especially for females
  • testicle pain for men
  • pain in buttocks and legs on people of both genders
  • blisters, open sores warts, rash or swelling in the genital or anal areas
  • itching
  • painful intercourse
  • frequent or painful urination
  • persistent flu-like symptoms- including fever, headache, aching muscles or swollen glands-which may precede STD symptoms.

Types of STDs

Diagnosis

Diagnosing STDs involves the identification of the bacteria, so if you suspect that you do have an STD, please don't hesitate to see your doctor or go to the nearest clinic. The doctor will perform a physical examination.  Females will also go for an internal examination to make sure that the womb is free from the bacteria.

Prevention

Simple measures can reduce the risk of catching an infection. People need to take simple precautions to avoid STDs. The most effective and proven precaution one can use during sexual activity is a condom. It is very effective when it is properly used, as it prevents the transmission of bodily fluids from one person to another.

The lifestyle you choose can play a big role in preventing STDs. Abstinence i.e. avoiding sexual activities is the one guaranteed way of avoiding STDs. However, if you are sexually active it is wise to have only one partner at a time, and for you both to get tested to make sure that you are healthy and remain so.

Treatment of STDs

There are many different kinds of STIs and the types of treatment are as varied as their symptoms. If you suspect that you are suffering from any of the symptoms listed, consult a doctor. STDs are very dangerous and extremely contagious, so please do not try to treat yourself.

If the bacteria is diagnosed at an early stage it is normally treated with antibiotics. Even if the disease is already at an advanced stage, there are medications that can help to manage the symptoms.  So do not hesitate – if you suspect you have an STD, seek help today!

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