Common types of sexually transmitted diseases
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Many diseases fall under the category of infectious disease. An infectious disease is caused by pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, prions, and fungi. There is a significant amount of panic associated with these diseases, as it may seem to an individual that contracting these diseases is dependent on those around the individual, and not the individual himself.
The fact is, however, that infectious diseases are the most preventable type of disease in the world. Whereas other diseases may be developed genetically or acquired through other factors, an infectious disease is mainly transmitted through liquids, foods, airborne inhalation, or contaminated objects. This type of disease can be avoided with careful consideration to hygienic habits, behaviors, and your environment.
One specific type of infectious disease are sexually transmitted diseases. Sexually transmitted diseases, or STDs, are diseases that are transmitted from one human to the other through the exchange of bodily fluids in the act of sex. As they are spread through sexual contact, STDs are very preventable. Unfortunately, many people are uninformed of how to avoid contracting these diseases, let alone how to treat them. With a certain amount of discretion and diligence, contracting these diseases should not be a problem. However, there are many times where accidents happen. It is important to stay educated and informed about STDs; should you contract one, knowing the symptoms and proper treatment options may save your life, or at least some stress.
The rest of this article will focus on highlighting several common types of STDs:
1. Chlamydia
The most common form of STD, chlamydia is a curable disease that infects the sexual organs. Common symptoms include pain during sex and discharge from the sexual organs. The problem with chlamydia is that many people do not show symptoms of the disease for a long time. Using a condom will prevent the spread of chlamydia.
2. Gonorrhea
Also known as “the clap,” gonorrhea is a bacterial disease that also affects the sexual organs. Pain during urination and discharge are common symptoms of gonorrhea. There are over 700,000 new cases of gonorrhea per year, most of whom do not display symptoms. Gonorrhea can also be spread through oral sex.
3. Syphilis
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease that is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum that causes sores on the mouth or genitalia. Without proper treatment, syphilis can cause major permanent damage. Using a condom can aid in preventing the spread of syphilis. Unfortunately, it is not 100% effective at doing so.
4. HIV/AIDs
HIV is a virus that eventually leads to the debilitating condition known as AIDS. It is most often transmitted by the exchange of bodily fluids, usually through sexual contact. It can also be contracted through pregnancy, blood, and breast milk. HIV is not a death sentence, as there are drugs known as highly active anti-retroviral therapy that can inhibit its progression into AIDS. AIDS attacks the immune system of an individual, resulting in a significant risk in fatality when contracting another disease.