Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are quite prevalent, and many individuals infected with STDs may not display any noticeable symptoms. Left untreated, STDs can progress into severe health complications. The reassuring news is that undergoing testing is a straightforward process, and most STDs are highly treatable. Let's explore essential information about STDs, so you can protect yourself and your partner as well.

What Are Sexually Transmitted Diseases?

A sexually transmitted disease (STD), or sexually transmitted infection (STI), is an infectious disease primarily transmitted through sexual activity. It includes diseases such as syphilis, gonorrhea, Chlamydia infection of the genital tract, genital warts, and genital herpes, among others. It's important to note that while sexual activity is the primary mode of transmission for STDs, it is not the only one. These diseases can also be transmitted through mother-to-child transmission, blood contact, and indirect contact.

What Are the Common Sexually Transmitted Diseases?

(Picture from https://sexualhealth.gov.mt/content/gonorrhea)

1.     Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is caused by the invasion of Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacteria into the human body, leading to infections of the genital and urinary systems. The incubation period for gonorrhea is relatively short, usually around 3 days and not exceeding one week. Pregnant women with gonorrhea can transmit the infection to newborns during childbirth, causing gonococcal conjunctivitis in the newborn. Specific symptoms include redness and swelling in the urethral or vaginal area with the presence of purulent discharge. The treatment for gonorrhea typically involves antibacterial therapy, including topical antibacterial ointments and oral antibiotics, primarily cephalosporins, spectinomycin, and doxycycline.

2.     Non-Gonococcal Urethritis

Apart from Neisseria gonorrhoeae, other bacteria, and pathogens can cause non-gonococcal urethritis, primarily Chlamydia, and Mycoplasma. Symptoms are similar to gonorrhea, focusing on urethral symptoms, with an incubation period of 1 to 3 weeks, averaging around two weeks. The treatment for non-gonococcal urethritis also involves antibiotics, such as tetracyclines, macrolides, and quinolones.

3.     Syphilis

Syphilis is caused by infection with the spirochete bacterium Treponema pallidum. Compared to gonorrhea, it's a chronic infectious disease with four stages: primary syphilis, which occurs around three weeks after infection; secondary syphilis, generally appearing three to four months after infection; and tertiary syphilis, which can have severe consequences and manifest about one to two years after infection. Therefore, early intervention with treatment is recommended, typically involving intramuscular injections of penicillin.

(Picture from middle-east.better2know.com/blog/2022/03/25/what-are-the-three-stages-of-syphilis/)

4.     Genital herpes

Genital herpes is caused by infection with the herpes simplex virus (HSV). The incubation period is around 3-5 days. Clinical symptoms include the appearance of vesicles and ulcers in the genital area, accompanied by pain. In severe cases, it can lead to systemic symptoms like fever, muscle pain, and headaches. Pregnant women with genital herpes can transmit the virus to newborns during childbirth, which can lead to severe consequences, even infant mortality. Genital herpes is typically treated with antiviral drugs taken orally, such as acyclovir and valacyclovir. While these drugs can improve or eliminate clinical symptoms, genital herpes can recur. If skin inflammation is severe, antibiotics may also be used.

There are two other sexually transmitted diseases, chancroid, and lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV). Chancroid is caused by the bacterium Haemophilus ducreyi and is characterized by painful genital sores. LGV is caused by Chlamydia trachomatis and typically manifests with symptoms around the groin and perianal region.

Be Alert to the Following Symptoms:

· External Genital Ulcers

Syphilis, chancroid, and genital herpes can all lead to the development of external genital ulcers. If the ulcers are circular and painless, they may be due to syphilis. If the ulcers form after the rupture of blisters and are accompanied by pain, they may be caused by genital herpes. If the ulcers are soft and painful, it could be chancroid.

· Wart-like Growth

These can be divided into flat condyloma acuminata and pointed condyloma acuminata. Both are typically found around the anus or external genital area. Flat condyloma acuminata appears grayish-white, forming nodules that slightly protrude and are prone to erosion. Pointed condyloma acuminata has a light red or grayish-brown color and appears as cauliflower-like or cock's comb-like wart-like growths.

· Urinary Symptoms

If you experience frequent urination, urgency, and painful urination, it could be due to acute gonorrheal vaginitis. If you notice a significant discharge at the urethral opening, it may be gonorrhea.

The most crucial aspect of preventing sexually transmitted diseases is maintaining personal hygiene. Firstly, avoid engaging in promiscuous sexual relationships, maintain a stable sexual partner, and use condoms during every sexual encounter whenever possible.

Secondly, reduce your exposure to unsanitary public places such as bathhouses, swimming pools, and hot springs. Additionally, maintain cleanliness within your household by washing personal clothing separately, especially underwear.