Health & Life

What are Sexually Transmitted Infections? Causes and Symptoms to Look Out For

If you're unsure about what sexually transmitted infections are, then look no further. Today, we delve into the details of these dangerous infections and give you a comprehensive insight.

Administrator

23 August, 2024

Sexually transmitted infections are one of the most dangerous types of diseases today, and it’s important to be informed and take effective preventive measures. Let’s explore the various aspects of STIs in today’s article.

1. What are Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)?

What are Sexually Transmitted Infections?

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), also known as Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), are infections that are transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, or oral intercourse. STIs are caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites that can be present in semen, vaginal fluids, or other bodily fluids exchanged during sexual activity.

Additionally, STIs can be transmitted from a pregnant woman to her unborn child during pregnancy or childbirth. Blood transfusions and sharing needles are also common ways that these infections can spread.

There are over 20 types of STIs identified by scientists, and most of them are challenging to treat completely. They often have significant impacts on the health and lives of infected individuals.

2. Causes of STIs

Causes of STIs

According to experts, there are numerous causes of STIs. The most common causes include:

Bacteria: Bacterial infections such as gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia are among the most common causes of STIs.
Parasites: Parasites are organisms that use other living organisms as hosts to survive and reproduce. They can be transmitted through contaminated sources like water, air, food, or even during sexual contact.
Viruses: Certain STIs are caused by viruses, including HIV, Hepatitis B, and Herpes. These viruses are minuscule and can quickly enter the body, multiplying rapidly and severely impacting the health of cells and organs.

3. Signs and Symptoms of STIs

Signs and Symptoms of STIs

According to experts in male health at the Tam Anh Hospital System, the signs and symptoms of STIs can vary depending on the incubation period, the type of infection, and the individual’s health condition. Here are some specific symptoms for both men and women:

In Men:

Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse
Unusual discharge or bleeding from the penis
Sores, swelling, or rashes around the penis, testicles, or anus
Pain or burning sensation while urinating
Swollen testicles
Painful or swollen lymph nodes

In Women:

Sores, swelling, or rashes around the vagina or anus
Pain or difficulty urinating
Pain during sexual intercourse
Vaginal discharge that is unusual or bloody
High fever
Lower abdominal pain

4. Common STIs

Common STIs

There are over 20 types of STIs, and here are some of the most common ones that you should be aware of:

HIV: HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus, which attacks the immune system, leaving the body vulnerable to other infections.
Genital Warts: Genital warts are caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and appear as hard, elongated warts on the genitals, causing pain and itching.
Syphilis: Syphilis is an STI caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, transmitted through sexual contact, including oral and anal intercourse.
Gonorrhea: This infection is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae and can be spread through vaginal, oral, or anal intercourse.
Herpes: Herpes, or genital herpes, is caused by the Herpes virus and is characterized by red blisters that form clusters in the genital area.

5. Prevention of STIs

Prevention of STIs

According to medical professionals, STIs can spread rapidly and easily recur, so it’s crucial to have the necessary knowledge to prevent and control them:

Abstinence or Safe Sex: Refraining from sexual activity or practicing safe sex with tested partners is the best way to prevent STIs.
Get Tested: Before engaging in sexual activity with a new partner, ensure you both get tested for STIs to protect each other.
Vaccination: Vaccines are available for some STIs, such as HPV, Hepatitis A, and Hepatitis B. Getting vaccinated can reduce the risk of infection and transmission.
Condom Use: Using condoms consistently and correctly is an effective way to protect against STIs during sexual intercourse.
Healthy Lifestyle: Adopting a healthy and scientific lifestyle can boost your overall health and immune system, making you more resilient to infections.

This article has provided an overview of STIs, their causes, symptoms, and prevention. We hope it has empowered you with valuable knowledge to protect your health and well-being.

Source: tamanhhospital.vn

Frequently asked questions

Sexually transmitted infections are infections that are passed from one person to another through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex, as well as the sharing of sex toys.

STIs are caused by a variety of bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Some common causes include bacteria such as gonorrhea and syphilis, viruses such as HIV and herpes, and parasites such as pubic lice and scabies.

The symptoms of STIs can vary depending on the type of infection, but may include unusual discharge from the penis or vagina, pain or burning during urination, sores or blisters around the genital area, itching in the genital area, and lower abdominal pain. For women, there may also be bleeding between periods or after sex, and for men, there may be swelling of the testicles.

To protect yourself from STIs, it is important to practice safe sex. This includes using condoms correctly and consistently, limiting your number of sexual partners, and getting regularly tested for STIs.

You can find more information about STIs, including specific types and their treatments, by visiting reputable online resources such as the World Health Organization (WHO) or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), or by consulting with a healthcare professional.