#63 Sexually transmitted diseases (English)

Sexually transmitted diseases

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are diseases transmitted through sexual activities. They are transferred through the exchange of bodily fluids or by direct contact with the infected area. They can however be prevented from the use of protection during intercourse. Condoms, for example, are highly effective when it comes to preventing disease. Herpes, gonorrhea and chlamydia are all types of STDs.  

Herpes is identified by painful blisters of the mouth or genitals. It is caused by two types of herpes simplex virus (HSV.) HSV enters the body through a mucous membrane or a small opening in the skin. Although the virus is most contagious through direct contact with herpes sores, it can also be transmitted through saliva. After the primary infection, the herpes virus travels along the nerves and becomes dormant within nerve cells. It is reactivated during times of stress where it travels back out through the same pathway, causing recurring blisters. Antiviral drugs can help people with herpes to stay outbreak-free for longer.

Gonorrhea is caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, a bacterium that can grow and multiply easily in mucus membranes of the body in the warm, moist areas of the reproductive tract. In women symptoms include whitish discharge from the vagina, pelvic pain, burning when urinating, bleeding between periods and several others. Men also experience a whitish discharge from the penis, a burning sensation when urinating and painful or swollen testicles. Symptoms for men usually appear two weeks after infection. However with women some symptoms are so mild that they go unnoticed. Gonorrhea can be treated with antibiotics and other medication. 

Chlamydia is easily spread and often goes unnoticed. Abnormal vaginal discharge that may have an odor, bleeding between periods and pain when having sex are all symptoms of chlamydia in women. In men painful urination, burning and itching around the opening of the penis and swelling around the testicles are all common signs. Once again this disease can be treated through the use of oral antibiotics.

Sexually transmitted diseases however can be prevented through the practice of safe sex or just refraining from any sort of sexual intercourse. Another way to keep safe is not sharing towels or underclothing as well as getting a vaccination for hepatitis B.

 

McA