Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) Treatment in India

Difference Between a Sexually Transmitted Infection and a Sexually Transmitted Disease

The terms STI and STD are often used interchangeably, but there is a small difference between them.

How Common Are Sexually Transmitted Infections?

STIs are extremely common across the world. Millions of new infections are reported every year. According to the World Health Organisation, more than one million sexually transmitted infections are acquired every day worldwide.

Many infections remain undiagnosed because they do not always cause symptoms. This is one reason why regular screening and awareness are important, especially for sexually active individuals.

Symptoms of Sexually Transmitted Disease

Symptoms of STIs can vary depending on the type of infection. Common symptoms may include:

• Unusual Vaginal or Penile Discharge: A change in the colour, consistency, amount or the odour of discharge may indicate an underlying infection.
• Burning Sensation During Urination: Pain, discomfort or a stinging feeling while passing urine can be a sign of certain bacterial or viral STIs.
• Genital Sores, Blisters, or Warts: Visible bumps, ulcers, blisters, or wart-like growths around the genital area may occur with some sexually transmitted infections.
• Itching Around the Genital Area: Continuous itching or irritation in the genital region can sometimes be linked to an STI.
• Lower Abdominal Pain: Some infections can cause pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen particularly if they affect the reproductive organs.
• Pain During Sexual Intercourse: Discomfort or pain during intercourse may occur due to inflammation or infection of the genital tract.
• Bleeding Between Periods: Unexpected vaginal bleeding between menstrual cycles may be associated with certain sexually transmitted infections.
• Swollen Lymph Nodes: The body's immune response to infection can sometimes cause swelling of the lymph nodes, particularly in the groin area.
• Fever or Fatigue: Some STIs may trigger general symptoms such as fever, tiredness or a feeling of being unwell.

Are Sexually Transmitted Infections Contagious?

Yes, sexually transmitted infections are contagious. They can spread from one person to another during sexual activity. Some infections can spread even when the infected person does not have visible symptoms.

A few infections may also spread through:

• Blood contact
• Shared needles
• Pregnancy and childbirth
• Breastfeeding in certain infections

Using protection and getting tested regularly can help reduce the risk of transmission.

Complications of Sexually Transmitted Disease

Possible complications of STIs can be 

• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Infertility in men and women
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Increased risk of HIV infection
• Pregnancy complications
• Cervical cancer linked to HPV
• Liver damage in hepatitis infections
• Neurological and heart complications in untreated syphilis

How Are Sexually Transmitted Disease Diagnosed?

A combination of tests can be prescribed to identify the type and cause of STIs. Common diagnostic tests are: 

Blood tests

These are fundamental tests used for identifying infections like HIV, syphilis and hepatitis. The tests detect antibodies or signs of infection in the bloodstream.

Urine test

Urine analysis is often recommended for bacterial infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea. They are especially relevant if urinary symptoms are present.

Swab test

A sample is taken from the area of infection, e.g. vagina, cervix, penis, throat or rectum to directly identify the infection.

Pap smear

This test is recommended for females to detect abnormal cell changes in the cervix that may be associated with HPV infection.

How Are Sexually Transmitted Infections Treated?

The appropriate treatment for sexually transmitted diseases is determined by the type of infection.

Bacterial STIs

Infections like chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and syphilis are generally treated with antibiotics. According to the infection, the medicines may be administered as tablets or injections. Catching and treating infections at an early stage often prevents complications and stops the infection from spreading to the partner.

Viral STIs

Viral infections like HIV, genital herpes, and HPV may not always have a permanent cure. But, antiviral medicines can be used to manage symptoms, reduce outbreaks, decrease the risk of transmission, and generally improve one's quality of life. HIV infected individuals, in particular, may have to be on antiretroviral therapy (ART) throughout their lifetime to keep the virus in check.

Parasitic STIs

Infections such as trichomoniasis are treated by antiparasitic drugs which help the body to eliminate the infection.

It is essential to complete the entire course of medication and refrain from sexual activity until the doctor advises it is safe. In fact, in several cases, doctors may also recommend testing and treatment for sexual partners to reduce the risk of spreading the infection again.

Can Sexually Transmitted Infections Be Prevented?

Many sexually transmitted infections can be prevented by taking certain precautions.

Preventive measures include:

• Using condoms correctly and consistently
• Limiting the number of sexual partners
• Getting regular STI screenings
• Avoiding sharing needles
• Taking vaccines for infections like HPV and hepatitis B
• Having open communication with partners about sexual health

Awareness, safe sexual practices, and timely medical care play a major role in reducing the spread of STIs.