Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are usually contracted through sexual contact. Organisms that cause sexually transmitted diseases can be transmitted from person to person through blood, semen or vaginal secretions and other body fluids. It is possible to contract sexually transmitted diseases from people who appear to be in perfect health and who may not even be aware of the infection.
Symptoms
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can have a variety of signs and symptoms. In some cases, there may be no symptom and as a result, they may go unnoticed until complications occur or the partner is diagnosed. The signs and symptoms that may indicate an STI are:
• Sores or bumps on the genitals or in the oral or rectal area
• Painful or burning urination
• Unusual or foul smelling penile/vaginal discharge
• Unusual vaginal bleeding
• Pain during sex
• Swollen lymph nodes, especially in the groin
• Abdominal pain
• Fever
• Rashes on private parts of the body, also on the hands or feet.
Depending on the causative organism, signs and symptoms may appear several days after exposure, or even years.
How are STIs Transmitted?
Most sexually transmitted diseases are transmitted only through direct sexual contact with an infected person. They can also spread by contact with infected skin or mucous membranes such as sores in the mouth. Sharing needles or syringes for drug use, ear piercings, tattoos, etc. can also expose a person to infected fluids.
Prevention
These are some ways to prevent or reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections:
• Abstain - The most effective way to avoid STIs is to abstain from having sex.
• Practice safe sex- If abstinence is not possible, be sure to speak to your doctor about safe sex practices.
• Stay with an uninfected partner - Another reliable way to avoid STIs is to ensure you are your partner get tested and maintain a faithful relationship with an uninfected partner.
• Get vaccinated - Early vaccination before sexual exposure is an effective way of preventing certain types of sexually transmitted diseases. Vaccines are available for the prevention of human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis A and hepatitis B.
If you have symptoms of STIs or think you have been exposed to STIs even if you do not have any symptoms, contact your doctor immediately and get tested. The earlier you are treated, the better. Delays in getting tested and treated can result in more serious health problems.