Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a significant global health concern, affecting millions of people every year.... CLICK TO READ THE FULL NEWS HEREβΆβΆ
Despite widespread education and prevention efforts, certain STIs remain prevalent due to their highly contagious nature. Understanding the most common and easily contracted STIs is crucial for promoting safer sexual practices and reducing the spread of infections.
In this article, weβll explore the 15 most common STIs, shedding light on their symptoms, transmission, and preventionβ¦. CONTINUE READING
1. Chlamydia
What is Chlamydia?
Chlamydia is one of the most prevalent STIs, particularly among young people. It is caused by the bacterium *Chlamydia trachomatis* and can infect both men and women.
How is Chlamydia Transmitted?
This infection is primarily spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Even if symptoms are not present, it can still be transmitted, making regular testing essential.
Symptoms of Chlamydia
β Painful urination
β Abnormal genital discharge
β Lower abdominal pain
2. Gonorrhoea
What is Gonorrhoea?
Gonorrhoea, also known as βthe clap,β is a bacterial STI caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It commonly affects the urethra, rectum, and throat.
How is Gonorrhoea Transmitted?
Like Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea spreads through sexual contact with an infected person.
Symptoms of Gonorrhoea
β Greenish or yellowish genital discharge
β Painful urination
β Pelvic pain in women
3. Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
What is HPV?
HPV is the most common STI globally, with many different strains. Some types cause genital warts, while others are linked to cancers, including cervical cancer.
How is HPV Transmitted?
HPV is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, often during vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
Symptoms of HPV
β Genital warts
β Abnormal Pap test results in women
β Usually asymptomatic
4. Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)
What is Herpes?
Herpes is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two types: HSV-1, commonly associated with oral herpes, and HSV-2, which primarily causes genital herpes.
How is Herpes Transmitted?
The virus spreads through direct contact with herpes sores, but it can also be transmitted when no symptoms are visible.
Symptoms of Herpes
β Painful blisters or sores on the genitals or mouth
β Itching or tingling sensation in the affected area
β Flu-like symptoms during the first outbreak
5. Syphilis
What is Syphilis?
Syphilis is a bacterial infection caused by Treponema pallidum. It progresses in stages and can cause serious health problems if left untreated.
How is Syphilis Transmitted?
Syphilis is primarily spread through direct contact with a syphilitic sore during sexual activity.
Symptoms of Syphilis
β Painless sores (chancres) at the infection site
β Skin rashes and mucous membrane lesions
β Fever, swollen lymph nodes, and muscle aches
6. Trichomoniasis
What is Trichomoniasis?
Trichomoniasis, or βtrich,β is a common STI caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis.
How is Trichomoniasis Transmitted?
The infection spreads through sexual contact with an infected partner.
Symptoms of Trichomoniasis
β Itching or irritation in the genital area
β Unpleasant-smelling discharge
β Discomfort during urination or sex
7. Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
What is HIV?
HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system, and if left untreated, can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).
How is HIV Transmitted?
HIV is primarily spread through blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. It can be transmitted during unprotected sex, through needle sharing, or from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding.
Symptoms of HIV
β Flu-like symptoms in the early stages
β Rapid weight loss
β Persistent fatigue
8. Hepatitis B
What is Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver and can cause both acute and chronic disease.
How is Hepatitis B Transmitted?
Hepatitis B is spread through contact with infectious body fluids, such as blood, semen, and vaginal secretions.
Symptoms of Hepatitis B
β Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
β Dark urine
β Nausea and vomiting
9. Mycoplasma Genitalium
What is Mycoplasma Genitalium?
Mycoplasma genitalium is a lesser-known STI caused by a bacterium of the same name, often linked to urethritis in men and cervicitis in women.
How is Mycoplasma Genitalium Transmitted?
It spreads through sexual contact, primarily affecting the genital tract.
Symptoms of Mycoplasma Genitalium
β Painful urination
β Genital discharge
β Discomfort during intercourse
10. Ureaplasma Infection
What is Ureaplasma?
Ureaplasma is a type of bacteria found in the urogenital tract that can cause infections, especially when the immune system is compromised.
How is Ureaplasma Transmitted?
This infection is transmitted through sexual contact or from mother to child during birth.
Symptoms of Ureaplasma Infection
β Pain during urination
β Pelvic pain
β Unusual vaginal or penile discharge
11. Chancroid
What is Chancroid?
Chancroid is a bacterial STI caused by Haemophilus ducreyi, leading to painful genital ulcers.
How is Chancroid Transmitted?
Chancroid is spread through sexual contact with an infected person.
Symptoms of Chancroid
β Painful ulcers on the genitals
β Swollen lymph nodes in the groin
β Soft, irregular sores
12. Pubic Lice (Crabs)
What are Pubic Lice?
Pubic lice, commonly known as crabs, are tiny insects that infest the genital area, causing intense itching.
How are Pubic Lice Transmitted?
These parasites spread through close body contact or sharing bedding, towels, or clothing with an infected person.
Symptoms of Pubic Lice
β Intense itching in the genital area
β Visible nits (lice eggs) on pubic hair
β Inflammation and irritation from scratching
13. Scabies
What is Scabies?
Scabies is a highly contagious skin condition caused by the *Sarcoptes scabiei* mite, which burrows into the skin, causing severe itching.
How is Scabies Transmitted?
Scabies spreads through prolonged skin-to-skin contact or sharing personal items like bedding.
Symptoms of Scabies
β Intense itching, especially at night
β Pimple-like rashes
β Sores from scratching
14. Lymphogranuloma Venereum (LGV)
What is LGV?
LGV is a chronic infection caused by certain strains of Chlamydia trachomatis. It primarily affects the lymphatic system.
How is LGV Transmitted?
LGV is transmitted through sexual contact with an infected person.
Symptoms of LGV
β Small, painless sores
β Swollen and painful lymph nodes
β Rectal inflammation in advanced cases
15. Molluscum Contagiosum
What is Molluscum Contagiosum?
Molluscum contagiosum is a viral infection that causes small, flesh-coloured bumps on the skin.
How is Molluscum Contagiosum Transmitted
It spreads through direct skin contact or sharing personal items with an infected person.
Symptoms of Molluscum Contagiosum
β Small, dome-shaped lesions with a central dimple
β Itching or irritation around the bumps
β Clusters of bumps in the genital area
Conclusion
Understanding the most common and easily transmissible STIs is vital for maintaining sexual health. Regular screening, practising safe sex, and staying informed are key strategies for preventing the spread of these infections. If you suspect you have been exposed to an STI, seek medical advice promptly to ensure timely treatment and reduce the risk of complications.
