Introduction of STD's

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Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a curable bacterial infection and, according to the CDC, it’s the most common notifiable disease in the United States.3 Often chlamydia doesn’t show symptoms, so people do not seek testing. But if left untreated, chlamydia can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infertility. 

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is a curable bacterial infection that tends to inhabit moist, warm places like the urethra, rectum, throat, genital tract, and reproductive tract.4 Often it doesn’t show symptoms, but it can still be passed with no symptoms present. Gonorrhea and chlamydia are typical co-infections, which means that it’s likely to acquire both at the same time. 

Syphilis

Syphilis is a curable bacterial infection that tends to go unreported because its symptoms are often absent or indistinguishable. Syphilis has four stages: primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary. In its early stages, syphilis is the most infectious and the least noticeable. It becomes more apparent in its final stages, which can result in damage to the brain and other organs.

HPV

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common STD. The CDC estimates that nearly every sexually active person will obtain at least one strain of the virus during their lifetime.6 There are over 100 different strains of HPV, most of which the body can fight off on its own. However, a few strains of HPV can cause genital warts or are considered “high-risk” and can lead to cancer. The HPV vaccine can prevent damaging strains of HPV. 

Herpes

Herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). The virus is most known for causing cold sores/fever blisters on the face and genital region. Herpes spreads through sharing infected fluids, skin-to-skin contact, and contact with cold sores. The virus can spread even when cold sores are not present;7 over half of the population has it;8 and though there is no cure, it can be managed with treatment. .

Hepatitis

Hepatitis is a contagious liver disease that causes inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis A is typically caused by eating or drinking items contaminated with infected fecal matter.  Hepatitis B and C usually occur as a result of contact with infected bodily fluids. Hepatitis may resolve through rest, replenishing fluids, and, in chronic cases, it can be treated with antiviral medications.9 There are also vaccines available to prevent some strains of hepatitis.

HIV

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) attacks the immune system, weakening the body’s ability to fight off other infections and making the body highly vulnerable to major illnesses. HIV is a lifelong disease, but it can be managed with antiretroviral (ART) medication. If it’s not managed, it can progress into acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), which is a chronic, potentially life-threatening condition.10 

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis or “trich” is the most common curable STD in the world, and it’s typically passed through vaginal sex. In the U.S., an estimated 3.7 million people have the infection, but only about 30% of people develop any symptoms. If symptoms are present, they include foul-smelling vaginal discharge, genital itching, and painful urination.11 

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STD Symptoms

The biggest takeaway with STD symptoms is that the most common STD symptom is no symptom at all. STDs may or may not show symptoms, depending on the STD and how it reacts with your body. Many STDs share similar symptoms, which is why it’s not possible to diagnose an STD based on symptoms alone; you must get tested in order to receive an accurate diagnosis. That being said, here are some of the most common signs to look out for:

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STD Symptoms in Men

STD symptoms in men include:

• Painful urination

• Itching, burning penis

• Penile discharge

• Bumps or blisters around the penis

• Painful ejaculation

• Tender, swollen testicles

• Sore throat

• Anal warts

• Watery diarrhea

• Rectal bleeding

• Rectal discharge

• No symptoms at all

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