Introduction to Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or infections (STIs) are medical conditions that are spread through sexual contact, including anal, vaginal, and oral sex, via bodily fluids such as semen, vaginal fluids, blood, or other bodily fluids. STDs are caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites. They can also be transmitted through a contaminated blade or needle if infected bodily fluids come into contact with an open cut or sore. Common STDs include Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Syphilis, HIV/AIDs, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis.
Types of Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Gonorrhea: This bacterial infection is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and it can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected partner. Symptoms usually appear within 1-10 days of exposure and can include a white, yellow, or green discharge from the penis or vagina, painful urination, and swollen testicles in men. In women, the symptoms can be mild or even absent, but they may include vaginal bleeding between periods or after sex, pelvic pain, and pain during sex. Gonorrhea can be easily cured with antibiotics, but untreated gonorrhea can lead to serious complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and an increased risk of contracting HIV infection.
This bacterial infection is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum and is usually transmitted through sexual contact. Syphilis has four stages: primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary. In the primary stage, a painless sore or chancre appears at the site of infection. In the secondary stage, a rash may develop on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet, and flu-like symptoms such as fever and fatigue may occur. The latent stage has no symptoms, but the bacteria remain in the body. In the tertiary stage, which can occur years after infection, the infection can damage the heart, brain, and other organs. Syphilis can be treated with antibiotics, but untreated syphilis can lead to serious complications such as blindness, deafness, and even death.
This bacterial infection is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis and is one of the most common STDs. It can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected partner. Most people with chlamydia have no symptoms, but when they do occur, they can include a white, yellow, or green discharge from the penis or vagina, painful urination, and abdominal pain. Chlamydia can be easily cured with antibiotics, but untreated chlamydia can lead to serious complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and an increased risk of contracting HIV.
This viral infection attacks the immune system and can be transmitted through sexual contact, sharing needles, or from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. Symptoms of HIV infection can be flu-like and include fever, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. HIV can lead to AIDS if left untreated, which can cause life-threatening infections and cancers. HIV can be managed with antiretroviral therapy, but there is currently no cure for HIV.
This viral infection is caused by the herpes simplex virus and can be transmitted through sexual contact. Herpes can cause painful sores or blisters on the genitals, mouth, or anus, and can also cause flu-like symptoms such as fever and swollen lymph nodes. There is no cure for herpes, but antiviral medications can help to manage outbreaks and reduce the risk of transmission.
This viral infection is caused by the human papillomavirus and can be transmitted through sexual contact. HPV can cause genital warts, and certain types of HPV can increase the risk of certain types of cancer, including cervical cancer. There is currently no cure for HPV, but there is a vaccine available that can prevent certain types of HPV.
This viral infection is caused by the hepatitis B virus and can be transmitted through sexual contact, sharing needles, or from mother to child during childbirth. Symptoms of hepatitis B can include fever, fatigue, and jaundice. Chronic hepatitis B can lead to liver damage and liver cancer.
Symptoms of Sexual STD
STDs can cause a range of symptoms, including burning upon urination, sores or rashes in or around the genitals, buttocks, or abdomen, unusual discharge from the penis or vagina, specifically smelly and discolored, itching in or around the genital area or rectum, pain during intercourse, and fever. To avoid getting an STD, it is essential to practice safe sex, which includes using condoms every time during sexual intercourse, limiting sexual partners, and getting vaccinated against specific STDs such as HPV and hepatitis B. It's also important to be aware of your body's changes and notice any abnormal symptoms that may indicate an infection.
How to Avoid STDs?
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To avoid getting STDs, one of the best ways is to practice safe sex, which means using condoms every time during sexual intercourse, even with a partner you trust. Condoms effectively prevent the transmission of most STDs and reduce the risk of other types of infections, such as HPV and hepatitis B and C. It's equally important to limit your sexual partners if you're sexually active. Along with safe sex practices, getting vaccinated against specific STDs such as HPV and hepatitis B. It's also important to be aware of your body's changes and notice any abnormal symptoms that may indicate an infection.
If you experience any of the above-mentioned symptoms or notice anything abnormal, it is crucial to get STD tested immediately, as some STDs can cause more complications in the future. Regular examination is key to promptly identifying and treating diseases before they spread to others. There is no shame in having an STD; the best action you can take is to get tested as soon as possible if you think you have contracted or been exposed to a sexually transmitted disease.
onvenient, especially through MedEx. Whether you prefer testing at your nearest clinic or lab or opt for the convenience of home, hotel, or a location of your choice, MedEx ensures anonymous testing. Their services extend across Thailand, covering Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, and other major provinces, all conducted with strict privacy protocols. The testing process remains entirely confidential; no personal identification is required.
MedEx offers express and anonymous STD testing, eliminating the fear of judgment or stigma associated with these conditions. Additionally, MedEx provides online doctor consultations or arrange in-person consultations at JCI-accredited hospitals for those testing positive. With MedEx, prioritize your sexual health confidently, knowing that advanced treatment options are available if necessary.