Sexually Transmitted Infections : How much do we know about it?

Posted By Suborna Fermi Posted on Apr 02, 2023

Sexually transmitted infections are common but are still considered as one of the most harmful health conditions. Anybody who is involved in sexual activities that include oral parts, penis, vagina, anus may catch this infection. Mainly, when the bacterias, parasites and viruses that can be responsible for the sexually transmitted infections enter our body, the infection takes place.

There are certain sexually transmitted infections that generate no symptoms at all. This is the major reason why it is really important to go for a sexually transmitted infection test if you are sexually active. However, there are some other reasons also why you should consider going for an STI test.

What are some common complications caused by sexually transmitted diseases?

• Ectopic pregnancy
• Infertility
• Chronic pelvic pain
• HIV, which may cause AIDS
• Pelvic inflammatory disease that may damage uterus

Why should you go for a STI test?

An STI test is necessary to determine the presence of sexually transmitted infection in one’s body. The main reason why one should go for a sexually transmitted infection test is, sometimes these types of infections generate no symptoms at all. This is why an STI is considered as the most effective way to prevent the spread of this infection.

Who should go for a STI test?

Any person who is sexually active should definitely go for an STI test. Apart from that, this test is necessary if -

• Somebody is about to start a new relationship
• Somebody has been cheated by the partner in a relationship.
• Somebody is having multiple partners as well as their partner
• Somebody is about to stop using protection
• Somebody is having the primary symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases

To be mentioned, it is also necessary to get tested if you are pregnant. Most importantly, you have experienced any kind of sexual assault or have been a victim of any sexual violence, seek medical attention immediately so that the healthcare professionals can determine if it’s about to cause you to any sexually transmitted disease.

How should you discuss your risk factors with the doctor?

Do not hide anything when you visit the doctor to find a cure for your sexual illness. You must explain everything clearly so that the medical experts can clearly understand your disease severity, pain amount and tolerance limit. Quite particularly, let them know if you get involved in anal sex. Besides, there are some more risk factors that must be discussed with the doctor.

• You must explain what kind of protection is being used when you are actively involved in oral, anal or vaginal sex.
• You must mention if you include any medication during the moments of physical intimacy.
• You also should tell the doctor if you have had any suspected exposure to any kind of sexually transmitted disease or any specific irritation that you doubt to be a symptom of an STI.
• You should inform the doctor unhesitatingly if you or your partner is having another sexual partner.

What are some of the most mentionable sexually transmitted diseases

If you are conscious about your sexual health and you decide to visit a medical expert, the medical expert will most likely suggest to be tested for certain diseases like -

• HIV
• Chlamydia
• Syphilis
• Trichomoniasis
• Gonorrhea
• Genital warts
• Vaginitis
• Pubic lice
• Genital herpes
• Human papillomavirus

Reportedly, more than 25 million cases of STI occur each year in the United States. As a matter of fact, half of those cases are reported to be diagnosed in people who are aged between 15 to 24.

What are some of the most common symptoms of STI?

• Critical itching or swelling around the area of vagina, penis, mouth or anus.
• Bumps or sores near the penis, vagina, anus or mouth.
• Vaginal bleeding but not because of period
• Feeling of pain during physical intercourse
• Discharge from the penis
• Vaginal discharge
• Frequent urination
• Painful urination

How are the sexually transmitted disease tests performed?

• Blood and urine tests: Blood and urine samples are collected, then the tests are performed on those samples. Usually, tests for gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, syphilis etc require blood and urine samples.
• Swabs: Sometimes, cervical, vaginal or urethral swabs can also be required for an STI test. A cotton applicator may be used to collect the cervical and vaginal swab. Such cotton applicators are inserted into the urethra to collect the urethral swab.
• Pap smears: Pap smear is clearly not an STI test process. The main use of pap smears is to detect the initial symptoms of anal or cervical cancer.
• HPV: HPV is extremely useful for predicting cervical or anal cancer.

Apart from all these, some tests also include some physical examinations. When it becomes necessary to look for bumps, sores or any other specific symptom of sexually transmitted infections, then the doctor may conduct a physical examination.

There are certain STI tests, in which, the STI test reports can be generated within 20 minutes after the test is successfully performed and some STI test reports may take up to 1 week to be generated. No specific preparations are required before you appear for an STI test, however, you can tell your partner about it and you both can make a wise decision of appearing for this test.

When should you get in touch with a doctor?

you must get in touch with a doctor if

• You notice any sudden change in your urination.
• You notice the presence of sores, rashes and bumps.
• You have the feeling of burning or genital itching.
• You are experiencing abnormal bleeding from vagina.
• You are feeling suspicious discharge from penis, vagina or anus.
• You are experiencing pain during penetrative sex

How are the sexual infections transmitted?

It is true that sexually transmitted infections are mostly contagious. Once you get in any sexual contact with another person, the seed of the disease will enter your body from that person. This is the most common cause behind the transmission of any such disease. However, syphilis may get transmitted while giving birth to a baby.

However, there are other risk factors too.

• Sexual diseases can be transmitted if you make a tattoo using the same needle that has been previously used on any infected person.
• Sexual diseases can be transmitted if the same needle is being used for the consumption of any intravenous drug.

You must understand that going for an STI test is your smartest step towards a life with better sexual health. Also, this is a very responsible decision that can keep you as well as your partner away from the chances of sexually transmitted diseases.

Once you notice that any of the symptoms of STI are getting visible in your body, do not waste a single second anymore and get in touch with a genuine and reliable medical expert as soon as possible so that necessary medical actions can be taken at the initial stage.

REFERENCES

• https://www.healthline.com/health/sexually-transmitted-diseases/getting-tested#how-to-prepare
• https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9138-sexually-transmitted-diseases--infections-stds--stis