Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections that get transmitted from one person to another through sexual contact. This infection is usually transmitted through vaginal, anal, or oral sexual intercourse. But this can also spread by being in intimate physical contact with the other infected person. This is because some STDs, like herpes and HPV, are spread by skin-to-skin contact.
As per WHO, there are more than 30 different bacteria, viruses, and parasites known to be transmitted through sexual contact.
What are Sexually Transmitted Infections?
The majority of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and illnesses are spread through sexual interaction. Blood, semen, vaginal fluid, and other bodily fluids can carry the bacteria, viruses, or parasites that cause sexually transmitted illnesses from one person to another.
These infections can occasionally be spread non-sexually, such as when women give birth to their babies or when they receive blood transfusions or share needles. STIs occasionally go unnoticed. Sexually transmitted illnesses can be acquired from individuals who appear to be in excellent condition and may not even be aware that they are infected.
Symptoms of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI)
Though there are no symptoms at all, STDs or STIs can show a range of signs and symptoms. Below are some symptoms that might indicate an STI:-
- Painful or burning while urinating
- Pain in the lower abdomen
- Pain during intercourse
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
- Sores or bumps on or around the genitals
- Discharge from the penis
- Sore, swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the groin
- Fever
- Random rashes over the trunk, hands, or feet
There are some symptoms that may start to appear. However, depending on the individual that is causing the STI, it can be years before you start experiencing any obvious issues. Therefore, it is always recommended to get yourself tested every now and then for any unwanted infections.
Also read about the causes of foamy urine
Causes of Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI)
There are many known and unknown reasons that can cause the infection. Below mentioned are types of viruses, bacteria, and parasites, which if detected on time can be controlled or treated.
-
Viruses: STIs brought on by viruses include genital herpes, HIV, and the HPV virus.
-
Bacteria: STIs caused by bacteria include chlamydia, syphilis, and gonorrhea.
-
Parasites: Trichomoniasis is a parasite-based STI.
It is possible to contract certain infections without engaging in sexual activity, including the hepatitis A, B, and C viruses, shigella infection, and giardia infection.
When someone is sexually active, they do expose themselves to a certain amount of risks.
-
Having unprotected intercourse: If there is vaginal or anal penetration by an infected partner who did not wear any protection increases the risk of infecting the other person.
-
Injecting drugs: Needle sharing spreads many serious infections, including HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.
-
Sexual contact with multiple people: When you have sexual contact with more than one person you automatically risk many.
-
History of STIs: If you have a history of STIs in your family there are chances you might also be infected with STI.
Diagnosis of Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI)
For diagnosis, the healthcare expert will require your sexual history and current signs and symptoms of STD (sexually transmitted disease). Your doctor will detect any infection by doing a physical or pelvic exam and look for signs of infection like a rash or any unexpected discharge.
Laboratory tests can help identify underlying conditions.
-
Blood tests
-
Urine samples
-
Fluid samples
Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI)
There are several ways to avoid or reduce your risk of STDs or STIs.
-
The most effective way to avoid STIs is to not indulge in unprotected sexual contact at all costs.
-
Maintain healthy sexual contact with only one person to avoid the risk of infection from others.
-
Avoid vaginal or anal intercourse with any new partners without getting yourself or the other person tested for sexually transmitted infections.
-
Getting vaccinated early, before sexual exposure, for hepatitis A and hepatitis B can help prevent certain types of STIs.
-
Use protection and dental dams for sexual intercourse to prevent infection
-
Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol or usage of drugs
What Happens if STIs Aren’t Treated?
If you don’t get treated for an STI, it can cause serious health problems:
-
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): In women, untreated STIs can spread and cause damage. This can make it hard to get pregnant or lead to ectopic pregnancies (when the baby grows outside the womb) and miscarriages.
-
Cancer: HPV (a type of STI) can cause cancer in the cervix, anus, and throat.
-
Brain and Heart Issues: Syphilis can cause heart and brain infections.
-
HIV/AIDS: Untreated HIV can cause severe infections and rare cancers.
How Common are STIs?
STIs are pretty common. In the US, there are over 25 million new cases every year. Half of these happen in young people aged 15 to 24 years. Worldwide, the WHO says there are more than 374 million new STIs each year.
We don’t have exact numbers for India, but we know STIs are a big health problem here too. The main problem is that a lot of cases don’t get reported. Lots of people are getting them because they don’t know enough about STIs or can’t get to a doctor easily. We need to work on making people more aware of STIs and making it easier for them to get tested and treated.
Who’s More Likely to Get an STI?
Individuals are more likely to be at risk of getting an STI if they fall under the following risk factors:
|
Risk Factor |
How can it lead to STI? |
|---|---|
|
Unprotected Sex |
Not using condoms or other barriers makes it easier for STIs to spread. |
|
Multiple Partners |
The more people you have sex with, the more chances an STI has to find you. |
|
Age (Under 25) |
Young people tend to have more partners and use less protection. |
|
Lack of Education |
If you don’t know about safe sex, you might not take steps to prevent STIs. |
Testing For STIs
Getting tested for STIs is really important. Many times, you can have an STI and not even know it because there are no symptoms. This means you can spread STIs without realising it. If you’re having sex, it’s really important to get tested for STIs, especially if you have more than one partner or if your partner has an STI. Testing helps catch infections early so you can get treated and avoid those serious problems.
There are different tests for different STIs. Your doctor might do a physical exam, take a swab of fluid from your genitals, or do a blood test.
How Often Should You Get Checked?
The CDC has guidelines on who should get tested and how often:
- Every Year: If you’re under 25 or have multiple partners, get tested once a year.
- New Partners: Get tested when you have a new sexual partner.
The HPV Vaccine
There’s a vaccine that can protect you from HPV (human papillomavirus). HPV can cause cervical cancer and genital warts. The vaccine works best if you get it before you start having sex.
It’s recommended for people aged 11 to 26 years. Some countries, including India, are starting to include the HPV vaccine in their regular vaccination programs.
Faq’s
How Can STIs/STDs be Prevented?
Using protection (such as condoms) every time when you have sexual intercourse is an absolute must to prevent sexually transmitted infections.
Can STIs/STDs Cause Other Health Problems in Women?
Sexually transmitted infections can spread into women’s uterus and fallopian tubes and cause pelvic infections. It may also lead to infertility or possible fetal death.
What are Some Tips for STI Prevention?
The most effective way to avoid STIs is to avoid any unprotected sexual contact and maintain healthy sexual contact with only one person to reduce the risk of infection from others.
