Understanding Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), or sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are generally referred to as conditions or infections that are spread from person to person through sex or close intimate contact. STIs are considered to be quite common and are easily spread. There are several types of STIs, where some can be treated and cured, whereas others cannot be cured. By knowing the facts about STDs, you can take the necessary steps to protect your health. Dr Rana Medical Hall offers our treatments for various STDs as well as sexually related diseases at our clinics in Ernakulam, Kottayam, Thrissur and Alappuzha.
Types of STDs
The following are some of the most common types of STDs:
Chlamydia
This is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases and is caused by bacteria. It can be cured easily. However, if left untreated, chlamydia can make pregnancy difficult for women.
Syphilis
Another bacterial infection is Syphilis and it can easily go unnoticed at its early stage. The patient can have very serious complications if left untreated. It is simple to cure with the right treatment.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection
HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in India. This is easily spread by skin-to-skin contact and therefore it is transmitted easily. Some health effects caused by HPV can be prevented with vaccines.
HIV
HIV is a very common STD that can damage your immune system and increase the risk of contracting other diseases. The patient with HIV should get effective treatment because it can lead to stage 3 HIV, commonly known as AIDS.
Herpes
The herpes simplex virus, also known as HSV, is the infection that causes herpes. This is another common STD, and most people with genital herpes infection do not know they have it.
Other STDs
Similar to the above STDs, there are several other STDs like Trichomoniasis, pubic lice, etc. Other less common STDs are Chancroid, Lymphogranuloma Venereum, Granuloma Inguinale, Molluscum Contagiosum, and Scabies.
Symptoms of STDs (Men)
The following are some of the most common symptoms of STD infections in men.
- Pain/discomfort during sex or urination.
- Sores, acne, itching or rashes on or around the penis, testicles, anus, buttocks, thighs, or mouth.
- Unusual discharge or bleeding from the penis.
- Painful/enlarged testicles
Symptoms of STDs (Women)
Given below are some of the most common symptoms of STD infection in women.
- Pain/discomfort during sex or urination.
- Sores, acne, itching, or rashes on or around the vagina, anus, buttocks, thighs, or mouth.
- Unusual discharge or bleeding from the vagina.
- Itchiness in or around the vagina
However, it should be noted that STDs don’t cause noticeable symptoms and therefore it is possible to contract STDs without developing symptoms.
It is much better to make sure that you have an STD than to assume that you have it. The only right way to know for certain that you have an STD is to get a medical test. You cannot find out by referring symptoms alone or by looking at online pictures and sites. For that, you have to consult a doctor and tell your doctor the following:
- What made you think you have an STD (e.g., a former partner with STD symptoms have contacted you).
- When you believe you might have been exposed to the infection.
It is important to note that certain STI tests would require a waiting period of several weeks or even months before a final result can be returned.Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Starting and Completing Treatment
In case you are diagnosed with a bacterial STD, you need to complete the full treatment regimen your doctor prescribed. Not completing your medicine increases your risk of developing a re-infection, which will be much harder to treat in the future.
If you are diagnosed to have an infection, it should be noted that you and your partner should refrain from sexual contact until the completion of full treatment. Otherwise, you risk passing the infection back and forth.
Similarly, if you are diagnosed with an incurable viral STD (like HIV, HPV, or HSV), you will need to have a long talk with your doctor about managing your infection, thereby lowering the risk of transmitting the virus to others.
Why Dr. Rana’s Medical Hall?
Dr. Rana’s Medical Hall was established in 1960 by Dr. M. S. Roy with the main objective to help people to improve their sexual and mental health. We offer the best treatment in Kerala for sexual disorders. You can find the best sexologist at our clinics at Ernakulam, Kottayam, Thrissur, and Alappuzha.
Visit our website for more details. Book now for a consultation with our best sexologist at any time you want. We will make sure that our service will bring your precious love life back as soon as possible.
