STD

What are sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?

Also referred to as sexually transmitted infections, STDs are caused by viral, bacterial, yeast, or parasitic infections that are transferred from one partner to the other during a sexual encounter. This can include oral, anal, and vaginal sex. Some STDs require an exchange of bodily fluids to transfer the infection.

However, some infections, such as genital warts, are easily transmitted via skin-to-skin contact. Wearing a condom will not keep you from becoming infected or spreading the infection since the virus that causes genital warts is often present on skin not covered by the condom.

There are more than 20 STDs, the most common of which include:

• Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
• Genital herpes
• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• HIV/AIDS
• Syphilis

What are the symptoms of STDs?

Each type of STD has different symptoms. HPV, for instance, is the virus responsible for genital warts. When infected with HPV, you may develop skin lesions in the genital area that are smooth or roughly textured like a cauliflower. The warts may occur as individual lesions of varying sizes or grouped together in large clusters. You may also have the virus without having skin lesions.

Other symptoms of STDs include:

• Cervical cancer, caused by certain strains of HPV
• A distinctive sore (called a chancre) that appears during the initial stage of syphilis, is often painless, and typically erupts at the infection site, such as the gums if contracted during oral sex
• Painful urination, vaginal or penile discharge with chlamydia, which can also cause infertility in women if left untreated
• Bumps, blisters, or open sores and pain in the genital and anal areas due to genital herpes

What is the treatment for STDs?

The treatment depends on the type of STD you have. Bacterial, yeast, and parasitic infections are treated and typically cured with antibiotics. There is no cure available for STDs that are viral in nature, but Dr. Stein can prescribe medications to help control your symptoms. There are also vaccines available to protect you against infection from the HPV strains that cause cervical cancer.

Whether you’re not yet sexually active but would like information about STDs or are worried you may have an STD, Dr. Stein can help. Call today for an appointment or book your visit online.