Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

STIs involve bacteria, viruses, or parasites transmitted through vaginal, anal, or oral sex, or skin contact. Over 30 pathogens exist, with 8 causing most cases: chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, trichomoniasis (curable), plus hepatitis B, herpes, HIV, and HPV (viral). Globally, 374 million new curable infections occurred in 2020 among ages 15-49; the majority were asymptomatic.

Common Symptoms

Signs vary: genital sores, unusual discharge, burning urination, pelvic pain, bleeding, rash, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat. Women may experience heavy periods or fever; men may experience penile discharge. Many remain silent, leading to complications like infertility or cancer if untreated.

Transmission Risks

Beyond sex, mother-to-child transmission during birth or breastfeeding occurs. Factors include multiple partners, unprotected sex, and untested relationships. Asymptomatic carriers unknowingly spread infections.

Prevention Strategies

Abstain, use condoms correctly every time, limit partners, test regularly, vaccinate (HPV, hepatitis B), and maintain monogamy with a tested partner. Avoid sex during treatment; notify partners.

Treatment Approaches

Antibiotics cure bacterial STIs (e.g., gonorrhea infection); antivirals manage viral ones. Early testing prevents spread and sequelae like PID or reactive arthritis.