Sexually transmitted diseases can affect any sexually active person. The risk of sexually transmitted infections increases with unsafe sexual practices and when having multiple sexual partners. Different types of microorganisms, like bacteria, viruses, and parasites, can cause sexually transmitted diseases. Treatment of these diseases requires identification of the exact cause of the disease through medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests.
Many women with sexually transmitted diseases in San Antonio, TX don’t show symptoms, and that is why you should get regular San Antonio well woman exams to rule out any underlying STD. Sexually transmitted infections can cause complications; it is vital to ensure that you have regular screening of the conditions. Early treatment should be started, and the full dose of the medication should be completed to avoid complications.
What Symptoms Show that You Have Sexually Transmitted Diseases?
Not everyone who has a sexually transmitted disease shows symptoms, and some people may be asymptomatic. The typical sign of sexually transmitted infections includes abnormal vaginal discharge, which can have a bad odor. The vaginal discharge may be yellow or brown. Pelvic pain or pain in the lower abdomen is another symptom of sexually transmitted disease. If you have sexually transmitted infections, you may have pain or a burning sensation when passing urine.
Ulcers or bumps on the external genitalia or in the mouth are another sign of sexually transmitted diseases. Sometimes you may experience a fever because of the underlying infection. Body rash can be seen in syphilis. Your male partner may also experience abnormal urethral discharge. It is important to go for STDs screening with your sexual partner because you may be asymptomatic, yet they are infected. You can also be at risk of re-infection if your partner does not get treatment for the infection.
The complications of sexually transmitted diseases include infertility because of the formation of adhesions inside the pelvic cavity. A sexually transmitted disease can also increase your risk of miscarriage or giving birth to a child who has an STD. These children can suffer from blindness and heart diseases after an STD. These diseases can also put you at risk of chronic conditions like HIV & AIDs.
Who Is at Risk of Sexually Transmitted Diseases?
Sexually transmitted diseases can affect a person of any gender and age. You are at risk of getting these diseases if you have unprotected sex. Having multiple sexual partners also increases the risk of getting a sexually transmitted infection. Having oral sex also puts you at risk of throat and oral infection with sexually transmitted diseases like herpes simplex. A child born by a mother who has a sexually transmitted disease can also acquire the infection.
Sharing needles and other sharp objects also put you at risk of sexually transmitted diseases like HIV/AIDs. You may also get an STD if you have been sexually abused. If you have a compromised immune system, you are more likely to acquire an STD than a person who has a competent immune system. Sexually transmitted diseases are also increased among persons of a low socioeconomic status because they may engage in transactional sex to get money. Alcoholism and drug use can make you have impaired judgment; thus, you may engage in risky sexual behaviors.
Conclusion
Sexually transmitted diseases can affect a person of any age, but the risk increases by having unprotected sex and multiple sexual partners. STDs can put you at risk of infertility and miscarriage and other chronic diseases like HIV & AIDs. You can prevent sexually transmitted diseases by practicing safer sex and having regular medical screening with your sexual partner.