According to WHO in 2020 estimated 374 million new infections in people 15–49 years with 1 of 4 curable sexually transmitted disease or STIs (1). STDs are unwanted consequences of unprotected sex between two people. Factors that are causing the rise in STDs include inadequate access to healthcare, inconsistent condom use, increased sexual activity among certain demographics, and evolving drug-resistant strains of bacteria. Social stigma, lack of awareness, and barriers to testing and treatment also play roles.
More than 30 types of bacteria, viruses, and parasites can spread through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Some of these infections can also pass from a mother to her baby during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. Eight specific pathogens are most commonly associated with sexually transmitted infections. In this blog we will understand the most common sexually transmitted diseases.
What is STD Disease?
A sexually transmitted disease is a disease caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites that are typically transmitted through sexual activity including vaginal, anal, or oral sex. STDs often present with symptoms such as genital sores, discharge, pain during urination, or may be asymptomatic, making regular testing and safe sexual practices crucial for prevention and treatment.
STD Symptoms in Women
- Unusual vaginal discharge: Changes in color, consistency (e.g., thick, frothy), or odor of vaginal discharge.
- Pain or discomfort during urination: Burning sensation or pain while urinating.
- Genital itching or irritation: Itching, redness, or soreness in the genital area.
- Pain during sexual intercourse: Discomfort or pain during vaginal penetration.
- Genital sores or ulcers: Open sores, blisters, or painful lesions on the genitals or around the anus.
- Pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic area: Persistent abdominal pain or pelvic pain.
- Bleeding between periods or after sex: Abnormal vaginal bleeding that is not related to menstruation.
- Swollen lymph nodes: Enlarged lymph nodes in the groin area.
STD Symptoms in Men
- Pain or burning sensation when urinating: This can indicate infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, or trichomoniasis.
- Discharge from the penis: Unusual discharge that may be white, yellow, or greenish in color, and may have a strong odor. It can be a symptom of gonorrhea or chlamydia.
- Genital itching or irritation: Itching, redness, or discomfort in the genital area, which can be caused by infections like genital herpes or pubic lice (crabs).
- Painful or swollen testicles: Infections such as epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis) or orchitis (inflammation of the testicles) can cause pain, tenderness, or swelling in the testicular area.
- Genital sores or ulcers: Painful sores, blisters, or lesions on the penis, scrotum, or around the anus, which can be symptoms of genital herpes or syphilis.
- Pain during sexual intercourse: Discomfort or pain during ejaculation or penetration, which may indicate infections or inflammation.
- Swollen lymph nodes: Enlarged lymph nodes in the groin area.
Types of STDs
1. Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
HPV is the most common sexually transmitted disease that affects millions of people around the world. HPV is primarily transmitted through intimate skin-to-skin contact like vaginal contact, Close skin-to-skin contact in the genital area, and it can also be transmitted from mother to child during childbirth.
Most types of HPV are low risk HPVs and cause no harm. But Some types can cause warts on the skin or genital areas. More severe or High risk HPVs can cause cancers, including cervical, anal, penile, throat, and others.
HPV vaccines protect against the most common high-risk and low-risk HPV types. Vaccination is recommended for preteens (ages 11-12) but can be given up to age 26, and sometimes beyond. Safe sex is always a best option to prevent any type of HPV.
2. Chlamydia
Chlamydia is also a sex related disease. It primarily affects the genital tract but can also infect the rectum and throat. It is particularly prevalent among young adults and teenagers. Chlamydia is often called a “silent” infection because many people do not develop noticeable symptoms. Burning sensation when urinating, unusual discharge that may be yellowish or have a strong odor and mucus-like or pus-like discharge from the penis (2).
Chlamydia is caused by bacteria, so it is easily treated by antibiotics. It’s important that all sexual partners are treated simultaneously to prevent reinfection.
3. Herpes
Herpes is a common viral infection with two main types: HSV-1 and HSV-2, but HSV-2 is the main culprit. It causes oral or genital sores and is transmitted through close contact or sexual activity. It is important to understand that not everyone who has herpes gets blisters. While there is no cure, antiviral treatments can manage symptoms and reduce the risk of transmission.
Because it can remain dormant for years, a herpes diagnosis does not necessarily indicate recent infection or infidelity.
4. Syphilis
Syphilis is a serious and complex STI with a multi-stage progression that can lead to significant health issues if untreated. In the first stage symptoms include Appearance of a single sore (chancre) or multiple sores at the infection site, typically the genitals, anus, or mouth. In the second stage Skin rashes and/or mucous membrane lesions, which may appear as rough, red, or reddish-brown spots on the palms and soles, or other parts of the body are developed. These symptoms disappear in the third stage, but the infection remains in the body. Only about 15% of people with untreated syphilis will develop the final stage.
Syphilis is curable with antibiotics with penicillin or alternative antibiotics for those allergic to penicillin. All sexual partners should be tested and treated to prevent reinfection.
5. Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It can infect the genitals, rectum, and throat, leading to various symptoms and potential complications if untreated. Symptoms of gonorrhea are similar to chlamydia. They include vaginal discharge, a burning sensation while urinating, swelling or pain in one or both testicles and discomfort or pain during sex. But there is no need to worry gonorrhea can be easily treated with antibiotics when diagnosed early.
6. Trichomoniasis
Unlike other STDs mentioned, trichomoniasis (or “trich”) is caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. Despite being easily treatable, trichomoniasis can cause serious problems for pregnant women. According to a 2021 review in the International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, this infection can lead to premature birth, low birthweight, and early rupture of the membranes.
7. HIV/AIDS
HIV, the virus that leads to AIDS, spreads through bodily fluids like blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. It can be transmitted through unprotected vaginal or anal sex with someone who is infected or by sharing needles. HIV isn’t transmitted through saliva or closed-mouth kissing. Though it is extremely rare, HIV can be spread through open-mouth kissing if both people have mouth sores or bleeding gums.
Early on, people with HIV may have symptoms like swollen glands, fever, muscle aches, headaches, and extreme tiredness that last for 2-4 weeks. After this, the virus enters a “quiet” phase called clinical latency, where symptoms might disappear for years, especially if the person gets treatment. In the late stage, known as AIDS, the immune system is very weak, leading to significant weight loss, night sweats, fever, frequent severe infections, a constant dry cough, and unusual skin rashes.
There is no cure for HIV, but certain medication can help people manage HIV and live a longer life.
8. Hepatitis
Hepatitis is a disease that causes inflammation and scarring of the liver and can be spread through sex and other ways. There are different types of hepatitis, but they all cause similar symptoms: tiredness, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dark urine, and yellowing of the skin and eyes.
Hepatitis B (HBV) can be spread through body fluids, sharing needles, or from mother to baby at birth. A vaccine is available to prevent HBV. However, chronic HBV can cause serious liver problems like scarring, cancer, liver failure, and death.
Hepatitis C (HCV) can also be spread through sex and body fluids like blood and semen. There is no vaccine for HCV, but treatments exist. Like HBV, HCV can lead to liver failure and death if not treated.
Conclusion
Sexually transmitted diseases are becoming common particularly in the age group 18-45. Health experts believe that awareness is the most important step to prevent sexually transmitted diseases as it removes stigma around them. Many types of STDs are easily preventable and treatable with condoms, medications and injections. So don’t ignore the symptoms of STDs and talk to your doctor immediately.
FAQs
1. What is the most common STD in men and women?
The most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in both men and women is human papillomavirus (HPV). It is highly prevalent globally and can lead to genital warts and cervical cancer in women, among other health issues.
2. What is the easiest STD to catch?
Chlamydia is considered one of the easiest sexually transmitted infections (STIs) to catch. It spreads through unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected person.
3. What STD is not curable?
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is currently not curable.
