STI stands for sexually transmitted infections, and they occur with several symptoms. It is advisable to look out for their signs, even though some do not experience any.
These infections can cause massive damage to the body when left untreated and are transmitted to other people via sexual contact.
Let us dive right into all you need to know about STIs but before that, consider having a free std testing.
STI Symptoms
STI symptoms range depending on the person. Some are mild, while others are severe, and they can attack any body part. These symptoms can take days or weeks after the initial infection appear. However, some STIs like chlamydia are asymptomatic.
Below are the top symptoms you should look out for;
- Pain when having sex or urinating
- Dark urine, especially with Hepatitis B
- Itchiness in the genitals
- Muscle and joint pain
- Testicular and pelvic pain
- Bleeding after sex or between periods.
Rashes and flu-like symptoms are also associated with STDs. However, it will help to visit a doctor since these symptoms can be mistaken easily.
STIs vs. STDs
Many people do not know there is a difference between STIs and STDs. STDs commence as STIs, and the infection starts when the body is inflated with viruses or bacteria. Below we discuss what causes STIs;
- Bacteria like syphilis or chlamydia
- Viruses like HIV or HPV
- Parasites.
These factors are transmitted via body fluids during sex and skin contact.
STI Types
Some STIs are more common than others, and an example is HIV. Other popular types of STIs are herpes and gonorrhea. Syphilis is not so common, but we have recently seen a resurgence in cases.
Doctors use examinations and tests to diagnose these diseases. These tests include;
- Fingerpick tests
- Blood tests
- Urine samples
- Physical examinations.
It is advisable to get tested frequently to know whether you are sexually active and contact your doctor when you develop symptoms.
STI Complications
Failure to treat STIs causes fatal health problems. The top STI complications are;
- Increased infertility risk
- They trigger certain cancers
- They make you more likely to get HIV
- Organ failure or death.
Pregnant mothers should also get tested often since these infections can still affect unborn babies. Other STIs can be passed from one person to another, causing;
- Meningitis
- Infections
- Stillbirth
- Blindness.
What are the Best Treatment Options?
Below are the best STI treatment options;
- Trichomoniasis and chlamydia are treated with antibiotics
- Gonorrhea and syphilis are treated with antibiotics
- Hepatitis B does not need any medication.
Some STIs are not curable, but you can reduce their symptoms using specific treatments, and an example is a herpes. Clinicians will give you antivirals if you have herpes to reduce the outbreak. Daily antivirals are also taken to curb HIV spread, among other diseases.
How to Avoid STIs
Sexual abstinence is the most effective way to avoid getting STIs. However, you can also try the following tips;
- Use condoms
- Get frequent tests
- Converse with your loved ones openly.
Final Thoughts
STIs are becoming more common today due to reckless living. These infections occur in many types, and some are untreatable. The above article has discussed all you should know about these infections.
