Sexually Transmitted Infections: What They Are and How to Prevent Them

Sexually Transmitted Infections (also known as STDs and venereal diseases) are transmitted everyday through sexual behaviors. They are often thought of as transmitted through sexual intercourse but are actually easier to catch than most people believe. STIs can be transmitted through all bodily fluids (including saliva) and even limited exposure to the infection, open sores, childbirth, breast feeding and drug needles. Many sexually active people continue to be wary of unplanned pregnancy, while these same people neglect their safety by having unprotected sexual encounters.

Every year, tens of millions of new infections are reported and every year, people continue to die from these preventable infections.

TYPES OF INFECTIONS

There are four main types of STIs:

Bacterial – these are infections that are caused by bacteria. Some well-known infections are Chlamydia, Gonorrhea and Syphilis. These infections can be treated with antibiotics and can go unnoticed for many years. They can be marked by discharge, abdominal pain, and even more serious symptoms such as nervous disorders and dementia. Fungal: These include more minor infections such as yeast infections and “jock itch”. Although these infections are nuisances which cause the bearer to be terribly uncomfortable, they are usually treated with over the counter medicines and can be ratified within days. Viral: Viral infections are incurable at this point in time and are easily spread even through kissing and touching. Some viral STIs include: Hepatitis B., Herpes, HIV (AIDS), and HPV. Viral cases are very hard to diagnose as they rarely cause overt symptoms until the infected person is extremely ill. Herpes will only show itself when it “flares up” with genital sores. Parasitic: Crabs (pubic lice) and scabies are tiny parasites that are transmitted from partner to partner through either touching or even sleeping in the same bed. They can cause itching, and rashes and people can usually be rid of them after several treatments of store-bought product.

Most STIs are not fatal and can cause horribly annoying and uncomfortable symptoms for the bearer. There are several infections, however, that can lead to death, some with no cure. The bacterial infections can lead to a slow painful death if not treated; and many of the viral infections are known killers as they have no cure and can cause breakdowns of the immune system and cancer.

PREVENTION and SCANNING
The best way to prevent these infections is through practicing abstinence. Abstinence is the most effective weapon we all have to ensure that we do not contract any STIs. Whether you are sexually active or not, here are the best ways to prevent yourself from getting an STI:

Get your Hep A & B Shots Use a latex condom EVERY time you have sex. Use nonoxynol-9 spermicide as this has been known to combat some infections. Wash your genitals and urinate after every sexual encounter. Know your partners. Ask them about their history, and look for signs of infection (even though there may not be any.) Limit the number of partners you have. Do not share needles, cigarettes, food or drinks with people that you do not know.

People who are having sex of any form should be tested regularly for infection and also know the signs. Regular visits to your doctor are imperative and for women, regular pap smears could make the difference between life and death.