Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections that are primarily passed on through sexual contact. They can lead to serious health problems.
Chlamydia:
Chlamydia is a common STD caused by bacteria. Both men and women can get it. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems like infertility in women. Symptoms include genital discharge and pain during urination or sex.
Chlamydia can be cured with antibiotics.
Gonorrhea:
Gonorrhea is another common STD caused by bacteria. It can lead to infertility in both men and women, as well as joint pain and skin lesions in severe cases. Symptoms include painful urination and discharge from the genitals.
Gonorrhea can be cured with antibiotics.
Syphilis:
Syphilis is a bacterial STD that can lead to serious health problems if left untreated, such as damage to the heart and brain. Symptoms include a painless sore on the genitals that will disappear but will develop into a rash.
Syphilis can be cured with antibiotics.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV):
HPV is a viral STD that can lead to a number of health problems in both men and women, including genital warts and cancer of the cervix, penis, or throat.
Most people with HPV do not have any symptoms, and the virus usually goes away on its own within two years. There is a vaccine that can prevent some types of HPV.
Herpes:
Herpes is a viral STD that can cause painful sores on the genitals, mouth, or anus. Once infected, the virus stays in the body for life. Herpes can be managed with antiviral medication, but there is no cure.
HIV:
HIV is a viral STD that attacks the immune system and can lead to AIDS. It is spread through blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk.
Symptoms of HIV may not appear for years, but without treatment, it can lead to serious health problems, including death. HIV can be managed with antiretroviral therapy, but there is no cure.
Hepatitis B:
Hepatitis B is a viral STD that can cause liver cancer, cirrhosis, and liver failure. It is spread through blood and bodily fluids, including semen and vaginal fluids. Symptoms may not appear for years. There is a vaccine that can prevent hepatitis B.
Trichomoniasis:
Trichomoniasis is a parasitic STD that can cause itching, burning, and discharge in women. Men may not have any symptoms. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems like infertility in women. Trichomoniasis can be cured with antibiotics.
Pubic Lice (Crabs):
Pubic lice are tiny insects that live in pubic hair and can spread through sexual contact. Symptoms include itching and small red bumps. They can be treated with over-the-counter medication.
Scabies:
Scabies is a skin condition caused by mites that burrow into the skin and cause intense itching. It can be spread through sexual contact, among other ways. Symptoms include a rash and small red bumps. Scabies can be treated with prescription medication.
