Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD)

A sexually transmitted disease (STD) is a viral or bacterial infection spread through sex from one person to their partner. STDs caused by bacteria are treated with antibiotics e.g. Chlamydia. Those caused by viruses are lifelong infections, and cannot be cured, but symptoms can be treated e.g. Herpes. Currently, the most common STD is Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which is the direct cause of cervical cancer. A person with an STD can pass it to others by contact with skin, genitals, mouth, rectum, or body fluids. Please note that this might happen in any types of sexual contacts; oral, anal, or vaginal, and in straight as well as homosexual relationships. Some forms of STDs may also be transferred in other ways, for example, a mother who has HIV/AIDS may transfer the disease to her child during pregnancy or delivery. Unfortunately, most STDs do not cause any symptoms and remain undiagnosed, especially in men. The most common symptoms in females may include genital skin lesions and abnormal vaginal discharge. The most common risk factor for STDs is having multiple sexual partners or having one sexual partner who has multiple sex partners. To decrease your chance of getting STDs you need to know your partner, limit the number of your sex partners, use latex condoms, avoid risky sex practices, and get vaccines for hepatitis B and Human Papillomavirus (HPV). STDs may have detrimental adverse effects on your health. Seek an immediate medical consultation if you have had a suspicious contact.