STD's and how to prevent them

Infections passed from one individual to another through sexual contact is known as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). 

Common STD's are; 

Chlamydia

This is a sexually transmitted disease. Some of the symptoms are;
· Mild abdominal pain

· Vaginal discharge

· Bladder infection

· Pelvic infection

· Bleeding in between monthly menstrual cycles

· Painful sexual intercourse

Chancroid

This sexually transmitted disease is also referred to as ulcus molle and soft chancre. This disease is caused by a bacterium called Streptobacillus Haemophilus Ducreyi. It causes the genitals to have painful sores.

Few days after being infected, the individual will develop a bump that will later turn into a painful ulcer.

Usually, women have up to four ulcers while men have just one. A dose of azithromycin, ceftriaxone and a 7-day dosage of erythromycin treats Chancroid.

Genital Herpes

This is a sexually transmitted disease caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV). This virus affects the genitals, skin, cervix and other parts of the body.

There are two types of herpes simplex virus:

· Herpes type 1 (HSV-1)

· Herpes type 2 (HSV-2)
Herpes type 1 is usually transmitted through shared utensils.

Herpes type 2 transmission usually occurs through oral, anal sex and the vagina.

Symptoms of genital herpes;

· Vaginal discharge

· Blisters on the cervix

· Fever

· Pain during urination

· Sores on the mouth

· Red blisters on the thighs, buttocks, rectum and genital area.

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a common Ssexually Transmitted Disease that can affect both male and female. However, most women experience symptoms more than men. The infection is caused by a parasite, Trichomonas vaginalis.

Symptoms include:
· Vaginal discharge

· Vaginal odour

· pain during sexual intercourse

· Discomfort or pain during urination

HIV and AIDS

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a sexually transmitted disease. HIV can be found in blood, breast milk, semen, vaginal and rectal fluids.

Aside from sex, this disease can be transmitted through blood contact, breast-feeding and the sharing of sharp objects, e.g needles. It can also be transmitted through blood transfusion.

When HIV reaches the third stage, the disease is known as AIDS. This is a deadly disease.

Syphilis

This is an STD caused by a bacterium; Treponema pallidum. It is transmitted through sex. A syphilictic lesion is what the transmitter carries.

Gonorrhea

This is an STD which attacks the mucous membrane. The bacterium responsible for this infection stays in the warmer parts of the body.

In women, there is hardly any symptom of this infection which can develop into pelvic inflammatory disease when left untreated.

However some women experience the following symptoms;
· Swelling of the vulva

· Pain in the pelvic area

· Pain while urinating

This disease can cause inflammation of the urethra, prostrate gland and epididymis.

The following symptoms can be experienced in a male;
· Testicular pain

· Discomfort during urination

· White, green or yellow discharge from penis

How to prevent STD'S

The best way to prevent sexually transmitted diseases is by using a condom during sex.
Other good ways to reduce the risk of contacting STD's are;
· Abstinence

· Monogamous relationship with a partner that is not infected.

· Reduction of alcohol intake to avoid risky behaviours.

Sexually transmitted diseases such as AIDS can lead to death. This is why it should be avoided at all cost.