Everything You Need to Know About Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Information may not be reliable

STDs are spread through sexual contact by infected people. Intercourse is the most common way for these illnesses to spread, but they can also spread through other types of sex, such as oral sex.

Viruses and bacteria can cause STDs. You may be at risk for an STD if you have ever had sex. If you've had a lot of sex partners, sex with someone who's had a lot of sex partners, or sex without condoms, you're at a higher risk .

Among the most frequent infectious diseases in the United States today are sexually transmitted diseases (also known as venereal diseases). At this point, at least 20 types of STDs have been detected. Every year, they impact more than 10 million men and women in the United States.

Major Types

The following are some of the most common diseases that can be transmitted sexually:

- Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS)
- Bacterial vaginosis
- Chancroid
- Chlamydial infections
- Cytomegalovirus infections
- Herpes
- Genital mycoplasma infections
- Genital (venereal) warts (Papillomavirus)
- Gonorrhea
- Granuloma inguinale (Donovanosis)
- Group B streptococcal infections
- Molluscum contagiosum
- Pubic lice
- Scabies
- Syphilis
- Trichomoniasis
- Enteric infections: Hepatitis A; Amebiasis; Giardiasis; Shigellosis

Papillomavirus (condylomas)

The papillomavirus is the most prevalent STD in the United States, causing growths known as condylomas or genital warts. Other STDs, such as gonorrhea, are frequently associated with condylomas. Direct contact with a wart from an infected person is the most common way for the virus to spread.

Condylomas are fleshy growths that can occur singly or in groups. They commonly appear on or around the genitals (sex organs) and anus in wet places. Soft, red or pink growths can be found inside the genital organs. The growths on the outside are hard and black. They're usually no bigger than the tip of a pencil, but they can grow into gigantic cauliflower-like growths when they join.

Prevention

Hundreds of thousands of people in the United States get a sexually transmitted disease each year. As a result, it's critical to recognize what habits put you, your family, and your friends in danger. We must all take responsibility for our own and our partners' safety. The mere fact that these concerns are being discussed does not suggest that the sexual acts discussed are acceptable.

Most STDs can be treated, but AIDS has no cure and is almost always fatal. As a result, it is critical to educate people about this disease. AIDS can be communicated by the sharing of contaminated needles among drug addicts, or through a blood transfusion in rare cases, but it is most commonly transmitted through sexual intercourse. The virus is found in sperm and vaginal fluids, and it enters the body through minute tears in the vaginal or rectal tissues caused by sexual activity. AIDS is not a highly contagious disease; the virus is only transmitted after very close contact with contaminated blood or sperm.

Sexual abstinence or a relationship with only one uninfected individual are the two surefire ways to avoid STDs and AIDS (straight or gay). You put yourself at a significant risk of catching disease if you have multiple partners, whether heterosexual or homosexual. There is currently no vaccination available to protect against any of the STDs.

Use Of Condoms

While condoms do not completely remove risk, proper condom usage and avoidance of certain sexual activities can help to reduce the chance of developing AIDS and other STDs. The condom (also known as a prophylactic, rubber, or safe) is a thin sheath that surrounds the erect penis and is usually made of latex rubber.

When used appropriately, a latex condom can help prevent pregnancy as well as reduce the risk of catching most STDs (including AIDS). Condoms are available in a variety of thicknesses, colors, and shapes and can be purchased over the counter at any drugstore. They can be lubricated or unlubricated, have a plain or reservoir end, and have a smooth, ribbed, or corrugated texture (the most common).