How are they caused?
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are transmitted in various ways, including through bacteria, parasites and viruses.
STDs are typically transmitted through anal or oral intercourse.
However, it is possible to contract an STD by skin-to-skin contact if the area is infected or there is a sore – specifically with HPV or Herpes.
Can they be cured or just treated?
Depending if a bacteria or virus caused your STD will determine if it can be cured or just controlled.
STDS that are caused by:
- Bacteria can be treated and usually cured with antibiotics.
- Viruses can be controlled but unfortunately, not cured.STDs that are viral never go away and you’ll always have it.
SYMPTOM CHECK
Common Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Scabies, Crabs & Syphilis
Scabies can cause a strange looking rash to appear on your body, sometimes this can be crabs. Small bugs or white spots in the pubic hair is a sign of crabs and scabies.
Spots are common with Syphilis which is the next stage after scabies and crabs.
Herpes
Genital Herpes can show no symptoms or be silent. When symptoms arise, you may have any of the following:
- Sores or blisters around the vaginal region, vulva and/or cervix.
- Fever, headache, tiredness, body aches, swollen lymph nodes, discharge, vaginal itching or pain while urinating.
HPV
HPV can show no signs for years—sometimes there are never symptoms at all! In that case, a gyno exam is needed to diagnose the condition. If they appear, symptoms will include:
- Genital warts
- Itching around the vaginal area.
COMPLETE LIST OF STDS
According to BeforePlay.org, 1 in 2 sexually active people will get a sexually transmitted disease or infection by the age of 25. STDs are avoidable, manageable and some treatable.
- HIV/AIDS
- Hepatitis
- Chancroid
- Trichomoniasis
- (HPV) and Genital Warts
- Genital Herpes
- Gonorrhea
- Chlamydia
- Bacterial Vaginosis
- Syphilis
- Scabies
- Pubic “Crab” Lice
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
- Mucopurulent Cervicitis
- Mulluscum Contagiosum
- Lymphogranuloma Venereum
FACTS ABOUT SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES (CDC.gov)
- There’s about 20 million new STD cases each year in the US.
- Young women’s bodies are biologically more prone to STDs.
- STDs like herpes and HPV are spread by skin-to-skin contact.
- Many STDs do not show symptoms for a long time, even years.
If you feel you have been exposed to an STD, it is suggested to schedule a consultation with one of our OB/GYN Specialists for treatment options.