Meaning and Types of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are infections spread from one person to another through sexual contact.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs). An STI is only considered a disease when it causes symptoms.

Types of Sexually Transmitted Infections:

There are many types of sexually transmitted diseases/infections.

These include:

1. Gonorrhea
2. Genital herpes
3. HIV/AIDS
4. Syphilis
5. Genital warts
6. Hepatitis B
7. Chlamydia etc.

Let’s discuss some of these diseases/infections:

1. Gonorrhea:

This is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It is spread through sexual contact between infected persons.

Signs and Symptoms of Gonorrhea:

i. Itching and discharge from the penis and vagina

ii. Painful Urination

iii. Painful Swelling of the Testicles

iv. Can cause infertility 

v. If a pregnant woman has the disease her child’s eyes will be affected at birth

Treatment: 

See the doctor who will administer drugs.

2. Genital Herpes:

Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection marked by genital pain and sores. It is caused by herpes simplex virus. The disease can affect both men and women.

Signs or Symptoms of Genital Herpes: 

i. Pains in the penis or vagina

ii. Painful blisters around the sex organ anus, or thighs

iii. Headache, fever and swollen lymph 

iv. Women may have urination problems.

v. Genital herpes can be transmitted to a baby during pregnancy and delivery.

Treatment:

• Maintain a high level of hygiene
• See a doctor