STIs when they appear. The likelihood of contracting venereal diseases. What infections are sexually transmitted

How to identify and get rid of STI infections?

STI ( Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are diseases that are predominantly transmitted sexually. It is possible to become infected with them through any form of contact: oral, anal, vaginal. Some diseases are transmitted in everyday life (syphilis). Often, STI transmission occurs from mother to fetus during childbirth. Diseases such as AIDS, hepatitis enter the body through the blood.

Humanity has been familiar with STIs since ancient times. Previously, such diseases became the cause of death. Until the 90s of the last century, they were called venereal diseases. Currently, doctors have learned how to successfully treat these ailments. Some infections can be transmitted in other ways: through the blood or in a household way. However, in 95% of cases, people become infected during unprotected sex.

What is the difference between the terms STI and STD?

The latter refers to sexually transmitted diseases. The main difference is in the condition of the patient. When a person has just become infected and does not have any symptoms, they speak of an STI. The use of the term STD is justified in the case of severe symptoms of the disease. In addition, some STIs are latent and do not show any symptoms. A person learns that he is a carrier only by chance - during the examination.

Most venereal disease pathogens are not viable outside the human body. Therefore, the household route of infection is very rare and not in all infections. The exceptions are syphilis, herpes, scabies.

Infectious agents are able to attach to the mucous membranes of the genital organs and the oral cavity, penetrate into them and multiply. This creates a focus of inflammation. Then, with the lymph flow, viruses and bacteria spread throughout the body, affecting ever larger areas.

Many pathogens penetrate other organs, even the brain and spinal cord, causing irreparable harm to health. A person can become infected from a sick partner, regardless of whether he has pronounced symptoms of the disease.

STD symptoms

Sexually transmitted infections can be very symptomatic, but they can be hidden. Often the patient does not suspect that he is a carrier of an STI, while serving as a source of infection.

Of course, for each disease there are specific signs, but most of the manifestations are of a similar nature.

Common signs of STIs:

• Burning, itching, swelling, redness of the external genitalia.
• Ulcers, erosions, spots, vesicles in the groin and genitals.
• Discharge with an unpleasant odor, greenish color, curdled or mucous consistency.
• Pain, burning sensation when urinating, frequent urination.
• Discomfort, pain during intercourse.
• Enlargement and soreness of the inguinal lymph nodes.
• Temperature rise.

The following infections are latent:

• Ureaplasma.
• Mycoplasmosis.
• Human papilloma virus.
• Genital herpes.
• Cytomegalovirus.
• Candidiasis (in men).
• Syphilis.

Other diseases that have become chronic due to incorrect treatment can also be hidden.

List of hidden symptoms of STIs:

• Slight increase in volume.
• Slight itching in the genital area.
• Discomfort when urinating, which quickly passes.

Major STIs

There are a lot of sexually transmitted diseases. Some of them are rare and not common in Russia.

The following 12 STIs are most commonly diagnosed:

• Syphilis.
• Gonorrhea.
• Trichomoniasis.
• Chlamydia.
• Mycoplasmosis.
• Gardnerellosis.
• Human papilloma virus.
• Genital herpes.
• Cytomegalovirus.
• Hepatitis.
• Candidiasis.

The list of infections, symptoms and pathogens of STIs is given in the table:

Complications

At first glance, STIs seem benign, especially those that occur without pronounced symptoms. However, these diseases have very serious consequences. They often cause infertility. Some without treatment are fatal (syphilis, HIV, hepatitis). The causative agents of infections penetrate into other organs, disrupting their functioning.

The most common complications of diseases provoked by STIs:

• Urethritis.
• Cystitis.
• Pyelonephritis.
• Prostatitis.
• Bartholinitis.
• Erectile dysfunction in men.
• Impotence.
• Menstrual disorders in women.
• Vaginitis.
• Endometritis.
• Inflammation of the uterine appendages.
• Extensive erosion of the cervix.
• Scars, adhesions in the uterus, tubes.
• Infertility.
• Miscarriages, premature births, stillbirths.

Many diseases are transmitted to a newborn baby during passage through the birth canal. There is also a risk of intrauterine infection (with syphilis, hepatitis). In children, these diseases often lead to fatal complications.

Consequences of STIs for a child:

• congenital syphilis.
• neonatal herpes. Usually results in death.
• Laryngeal papillomatosis (with HPV to the mother).
• Gonorrheal conjunctivitis, corneal damage, loss of vision.
• Chlamydial pneumonia.
• neonatal death.

Diseases such as syphilis, HIV, hepatitis are deadly to humans. With tertiary syphilis, the nervous system and bones are damaged, which leads to death. HIV affects the human immune system, so any cold or scratch causes the death of the patient.

The oncogenic type of human papillomavirus provokes the development of cervical cancer in women and penile cancer in men. The relationship between papillomavirus and oncology of the mammary glands has also been proven.

In the fourth stage of hepatitis, the patient develops cirrhosis of the liver, which leads to death. The herpes virus cannot be cured, so a person remains a carrier of the infection for life.

Diagnostics

Examination for STIs includes the following diagnostic methods:

• Microscopic examination of a smear from the urethra and vagina. Can be simple and luminescent. The resulting sample is treated with special dyes or fluorochromes. The biomaterial is then examined under a microscope.
• Cultural study. The sample is placed in a special nutrient medium where viruses and bacteria actively multiply.
• ELISA blood test. Detects specific antigens to a specific pathogen. It is based on the fact that antibodies bind exclusively to their own antigens and not to any others. Thus, it is possible to determine the type of pathogen.
• Blood test for torch infection. It is mandatory for all pregnant women. The abbreviation torch is made up of the first letters of the English names of the following infections: toxoplasmosis, syphilis, hepatitis, rubella, cytomegalovirus, herpes. These diseases have a negative impact on the fetus, causing abnormal intrauterine development. Blood is taken from a woman and examined for antibodies to torch infections. The number of antibodies shows whether a woman is currently ill or has ever had these diseases. In the latter case, there is no danger to the child. If the expectant mother becomes infected during pregnancy, then she is offered to terminate the pregnancy.

The gold standard in diagnosis is the study of STIs by PCR. PCR (polymerase chain reaction) is a highly accurate research method in which an increase in the DNA fragment of certain cells is achieved.

DNA copying occurs only if it is present in a given sample. PCR for STIs is used for infections that are latent. The advantages of this method include: speed, accuracy, information content.

The PCR method examines such diseases as:

• Chlamydia.
• Cytomegalovirus.
• Hepatitis.
• Ureaplasma.
• Gardnerellosis.

How is the PCR results deciphered for STIs?

There can be only 2 options here: positive and negative. If the result is positive, and there are no symptoms, then PCR is trusted, which means that the disease is latent or is at the preclinical stage. Also, specific tests are used to diagnose STIs, for example, the Wassermann reaction for diagnosing syphilis. For hepatitis, liver tests are performed.

If there is a suspicion of a complication of STDs, then additional instrumental diagnostic methods are prescribed:

• Ultrasound of the pelvic organs in women, prostate in men.
• A blood test for tumor markers (in case of infection with the human papillomavirus).
• Ultrasound of the liver in the detection of hepatitis.

Preparation for testing

In order to get the most reliable results, you need to prepare before taking a smear. For a week, stop taking antibiotics, vaginal suppositories, sprays. Sexual contacts are excluded 3 days before the study. In women, a smear is taken after the end of menstruation. You can not urinate 3 hours before the analysis.

For analysis by PCR or ELISA, specific preparation is not required.

Treatment

Treatment of STIs should be carried out by a venereologist and a gynecologist. Self-medication is excluded, since a person only muffles acute manifestations, contributing to the transition of the disease to a chronic or latent form. In this case, there will be no external symptoms, but the infection will begin to spread throughout the body and affect organs and systems.

The principles of treatment for all STIs are the same:

Sometimes, as an additional measure, doctors prescribe baths or douching with decoctions of medicinal herbs. This will help relieve inflammation, swelling, eliminate itching, but will not have a toxic effect on the body, unlike medications.

It is necessary to treat not only the patient himself, but also a permanent partner, sometimes all family members, for example, with syphilis. In the case of syphilis and HIV, doctors try to find out all the recent contacts of the patient in order to examine those who may have become infected or determine the source of the infection.

Preparations

When choosing drugs, the doctor uses an individual approach. He is guided by the data of the tests, the severity of the symptoms, the patient's health status, age, and the presence of concomitant diseases.

Antibacterial agents are used to treat STIs. For each pathogen, a different type of antibiotic is prescribed. So, for example, gonococci do not respond to antibiotics of the penicillin series, they have a stable resistance to them. Syphilis, on the other hand, is successfully treated with penicillin.

Means used in the treatment of STIs:

Treatment of HIV, hepatitis, herpes, papilloma is of particular difficulty. These diseases are incurable. With the help of special preparations, viruses are prevented from spreading and causing irreparable harm to health. But a person remains a carrier of this infection for life and can infect a partner.

The spread of the virus can only be stopped with the help of very strong systemic antiviral drugs. They are called antiretrovirals. So, for the treatment of HIV-infected people, such drugs as Zidovudine, Stavudine, Nevirapine, Ritonavir are used.

Hepatitis is treated with Enterferon Alpha, Telbivudine, Tenofovir. Patients with human papillomavirus are prescribed immunostimulating agents: Cycloferon, Ingaron, Lavomax, vitamin-mineral complexes.

Prevention

Prevention of STIs is a task not only for the patient himself, but also for the state and society. Deliberate transmission of STIs is subject to criminal penalties.

At the state level, preventive measures are as follows:

• Carrying out educational work with young people on the prevention of diseases such as HIV, hepatitis, papilloma.
• Promotion of protected sex acts.
• Vaccination of girls against HPV.
• Regular professional examinations of employees of public catering, medical and pedagogical institutions.
• Examination of all pregnant women for STIs and torch infections.
• Creation of anonymous rooms for testing for STIs.

Also, the prevention of these diseases is the task of each person personally. Of course, no one is immune from infection, but the use of barrier contraception and the avoidance of casual sexual intercourse significantly reduces the risk of infection.

The high prevalence of STIs is a huge problem. According to WHO data, the number of cases of syphilis and gonorrhea has recently decreased. However, the number of cases of chlamydia and ureaplasmosis is rapidly growing. The situation with HIV remains alarming. It is possible to protect yourself from STIs under the condition of intelligibility in sexual intercourse and the use of personal protective equipment.

Infectious diseases that occur as a result of unprotected sexual contact are combined into a single group called sexually transmitted diseases or STIs. As a rule, such pathologies have several ways of transmission between people. According to medical research, the list of sexually transmitted infections includes more than 30 different pathogenic microorganisms that can infect a person during various types of sexual intercourse with a partner - during anal, oral or vaginal contact. Eight types of viruses are classified as the most common, they are: gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, chlamydia, syphilis, HIV, hepatitis B, herpes and HPV, some of which are considered incurable.

Below is a kind of presentation of sexually transmitted infections.

Classification

According to the type of pathogen, such pathologies are conventionally divided into 5 main groups:

Infections that can be triggered by bacterial microflora include:

1. Syphilis.
2. Chlamydia.
3. Gonorrhea.
4. Inguinal granuloma.
5. Chancroid.
6. Mycoplasmosis.
7. Ureaplasmosis.

There are also latent sexually transmitted infections. Viral diseases include:

1. Human papilloma virus.
2. Herpes virus type 2.
3. Molluscum contagiosum.
4. Cytomegalovirus.

The diseases that cause include chlamydia and trichomoniasis, and a fungal infection can trigger the development of candidiasis.

This disease develops, as a rule, very rapidly and can affect almost all organs and systems of the body. The causative agent in this case is pale treponema. The main route of transmission of this infection is sexual, and in rare cases - parenteral and contact. From the moment of infection with a similar type of sexual infection until the first signs appear, about 3 weeks pass. In the place where the infection has entered the body, a so-called hard chancre is formed, which is an ulcer of the correct round shape, with even elastic edges. This is the first symptom of a sexually transmitted infection called syphilis.

The localization of a hard chancre can be very different: in the area of ​​​​the external genitalia, on the fingers, on the tonsils, etc. Lymph nodes, which are located near the primary formation, begin to increase, becoming very dense. However, on palpation, they are painless and mobile, and there is no local increase in temperature in their areas. These chancres disappear after about a month, when regional lymphadenitis disappears. From this moment, the development of various skin manifestations begins, which are a pale pink rash in the form of small subcutaneous hemorrhages. There are also signs of general chronic intoxication, manifested by weakness, an increase in subfebrile temperature and lack of appetite. After about 2 weeks, these symptoms gradually disappear, and in most patients the stage of asymptomatic infection carriage is formed.

Possible Complications

However, in the absence of adequate antibiotic therapy, very serious complications may develop, which include:

1. Syphilitic aortitis or endarteritis, which is a bacterial lesion of the aorta or other large vessels.
2. Damage to bones and muscles.
3. Brain damage.

Mycoplasmosis

Microorganisms that can cause urogenital mycoplasmosis are Mycoplasma hominis and genitalium viruses. These are opportunistic pathogens that develop this pathology only with a decrease in local immunity. Many experts do not include such a disease in the list of STIs due to its high prevalence and the body's ability to heal itself. Clinical symptoms of mycoplasmosis in men and women differ significantly. In men, a sexually transmitted infection is manifested by the following symptoms:

1. Urethritis, which is an inflammatory process in the urethra.
2. Epididymitis is an inflammatory process that occurs in the appendages of the testes.
3. Orchitis.
4. Prostatitis.

Despite the fact that prostatitis can be triggered by any infection of the genital area in men, the participation of mycoplasmas in the development of this disease has not been proven.

Symptoms of mycoplasmosis in women:

1. Cystitis.
2. Urethritis.
3. Cervicitis.
4. Colpitis.
5. Salpingoophoritis.
6. Pelvioperitonitis.

Chlamydia

This pathology is a disease that is considered one of the most common among sexually transmitted infections, surpassing syphilis and gonorrhea in frequency. According to medical research, more than 80 million people worldwide suffer from this infection every year. Chlamydia is considered a socially significant infection, since such a high incidence rate is due to delayed diagnosis due to the absence of symptoms. This pathology leads to the development of infertility.

The microorganism that causes chlamydia is Chlamydia trachomatis. This bacterium belongs to Gram-negative microorganisms that have an intracellular development cycle. Sources of infection can be infected people who practice promiscuity, as well as those who do not use barrier methods of contraception. There are known sexual and non-sexual routes of infection with this sexually transmitted infection in women, but the former is much more common. Transmission of chlamydia can also occur from an affected mother to her child during childbirth. With chlamydia, infection of the genitourinary system is primarily observed. However, cases of infection in the form of inflammation of the rectum, eyes, posterior nasopharyngeal wall, immune defense cells or joints are known.

Symptoms of this disease in men and women manifest themselves in different ways. In men, urethritis most often develops, which has an acute or subacute course and the presence of slight discharge of pus from the urethra, as well as very painful and difficult urination. Urethritis in some cases can be asymptomatic, which often leads to protracted forms of the disease, which entails complex and severe complications. In more rare cases, men experience damage to the prostate and epididymis, which manifests itself in the form of prostatitis, as well as epididymitis. The chronic course of prostatitis can manifest itself in the form of discomfort in the perineum, urinary retention, frequent urination, especially at night, reduced potency, impossibility of orgasm. A disease such as epididymitis occurs, as a rule, suddenly, with a high temperature of up to 40 degrees and acute pain in the testicles. Swelling of the scrotum is formed, which also leads to severe pain. After a few days, the symptoms of this pathology can completely disappear even without treatment. Chlamydia is the most common cause of male infertility.

Where can I get tested for sexually transmitted infections? More on that below.

In women, this disease is characterized by an asymptomatic course, but this is observed only until certain complications arise, which manifest themselves in the form of inflammation of the organs in the pelvic area. Signs of such complications can be soreness and discomfort in the genital area, discharge from the vagina of a mucous or purulent nature, fever up to 39 degrees, serious disruptions in the menstrual cycle, pulling pain in the lower abdomen. Chlamydia in the female version also manifests itself in the form of bartholinitis, endocervicitis, endometritis, salpingitis and pelvioperitonitis. If left untreated, this pathology becomes chronic, which becomes the cause of infertility and a risk factor for the occurrence of malignant tumors of the genital area.

Gonorrhea

The disease also has a high social significance, since recently there has been an increase in the incidence and a change in the age group of patients towards rejuvenation. This situation is associated with the prevalence of infection, which becomes immune to certain types of antibiotics due to their uncontrolled use.

The causative agent of the pathological process is a microorganism that belongs to gram-negative cocci of the intracellular type. People are the source of infection. In addition to the sexual route of infection, there is a small percentage of indirect infection, for example, through common hygiene items, bedding, etc. Newborns receive this infection at birth from the mother.

Gonorrhea in men is characterized by the occurrence of acute urethritis and proceeds in the form of painful sensations during urination with abundant pus. About a week after receiving the infection, the symptoms may disappear even without the implementation of therapeutic measures. However, it is not a cure for this disease, as many people believe. This phenomenon is due to the transition of the pathological process into a chronic form, which has a protracted course with frequent periods of exacerbation. Urethritis provoked by gonorrhea in men leads to complications such as morganitis, tysonitis, colliculitis, lymphangitis, cooperitis, lymphadenitis, epididymitis, paraurethritis. These diseases have specific features in terms of the localization of the pain syndrome, but they are united by an acute period of occurrence in the form of an increase in body temperature to high numbers and severe pain at the sites of inflammation. If the disease is not treated on time, it often leads to impotence.

In women, the disease does not have a vivid clinical picture. Symptoms, as a rule, appear after the development of various complications. For female gonorrhea, the occurrence of a multifocal pathological process is characteristic. Gonorrhea of ​​the lower genitourinary sections is distinguished, which is presented in the form of urethritis, vaginitis, endocervicitis and bartholinitis. These inflammatory processes can manifest themselves in the form of symptoms such as burning pain during urination, separation of pus from the genital tract, redness of the mucous membranes of the genitals, pain during sexual intercourse. Varieties of ascending gonorrhea include: salpingitis, endometritis and pelvioperitonitis. These pathologies are manifested by cramping and pulling pains in the lower abdomen, painful menstruation, cycle disorders, mucous or purulent discharge from the vagina and urethra, and a rise in subfebrile temperature. Prevention of sexually transmitted infections is very important.

Genital herpes

Clinical signs of this disease are specific symptoms that allow you to immediately determine its nature and begin treatment of such an STI. Herpetic infection is very widespread and leads, if untreated, to infertility. The causative agents of genital herpes are two types of viruses - HSV1 and HSV2, and the source of infection is a sick person or a virus carrier. As a rule, the herpes virus of the first type affects the face, and the second type virus is able to affect the genitourinary organs. Infection of the genitals with the first type of herpes and vice versa can occur during orogenital sexual intercourse. It can be transmitted through sexual or contact contact. Infection of the fetus occurs from a sick mother during childbirth. The occurrence of this pathology during pregnancy often becomes the main cause of spontaneous miscarriages.

This disease manifests itself very specifically, and the clinical signs in men and women are approximately the same. In the genital area, the formation of small bubbles containing a clear liquid begins. They mature, then burst, leaving small areas of ulceration. This is accompanied by pain, itching and fever. This is followed by the development of herpetic urethritis and lymphadenitis with painful urination and thick discharge from the urethra.

What other infections are sexually transmitted?

HPV

The cause of genital warts and warts is HPV - papillomavirus. The disease is the main factor in the occurrence of oncological pathologies in the genital area, however, the bulk of the world's population is carriers of this virus.

There are many ways of transmission of this infection. When genital warts occur, sexual transmission is observed. at the same time - a virus carrier without clinical symptoms or a directly sick person.

This disease proceeds, as a rule, hidden and painless for a very long period. With the development of disorders in the immune defense system, this virus is activated. The disease is characterized by the formation of warts and papillomas on the patient's body, of very different localization. Human papillomavirus is considered the main cause of cervical cancer, and it occurs in almost 40% of infected women.

Also, HIV infection can be obtained through blood transfusions and its preparations, in the prenatal period, during childbirth or while breastfeeding. But still, vaginal and anal sex is the most common route of transmission worldwide. You can also become infected during oral sex. Kissing is most often safe. Other STDs, traumatic sexual intercourse, uncircumcised males, vaginosis, intercourse during menstruation, and oral contraceptives increase the risk of contracting HIV through sexual intercourse. Moreover, transmission occurs more often from a man to a woman than vice versa. Condoms and other barrier methods of contraception can help reduce the risk.

Where to take the analysis?

Blood can be donated at any medical institution.

Anyone who is sexually active should be tested for STIs every six months for prevention purposes. After a course of treatment for any infection, an analysis is required after a month, and then after another three. It is also necessary to be examined when planning a pregnancy. In the case of unprotected casual sexual contact, a reliable result may not be immediately. So, HIV is determined only six months after contact, like syphilis. And in order to detect hepatitis, you need from 1.5 to 3 months.

Testing for sexually transmitted infections can be done free of charge. But first, it is better to visit a specialist. This is a venereologist, andrologist, urologist or gynecologist.

STI prevention

Preventive measures that prevent infection with STIs are divided into two types:

1. Primary, which are aimed at their prevention:

• barrier contraception (condoms);
• organization of sexual life with one reliable partner;
• intimate hygiene.

2. Secondary, which are aimed at preventing the disease if infection is suspected. For example, after a suspicious sexual contact or in cases where a person learned about the presence of an STI after an unprotected act.

Treatment of sexually transmitted infections

Appropriate treatment of such diseases should be prescribed exclusively by a specialist after all the necessary methods of differential and laboratory diagnostics have been carried out. Depending on what kind of pathogen provoked a particular pathological condition, a specific treatment regimen is drawn up. Most of these diseases are successfully treated, but here it is necessary to observe the conditions of timeliness and strict implementation of the specialist's instructions. Incurable pathologies are such STDs as HIV, herpes and hepatitis C.

Therapeutic methods are aimed at eliminating the symptoms. For this, the following tablets are used for sexually transmitted infections:

We have special days for the prevention of sexually transmitted infections in our country.

The world of sexually transmitted infections is very diverse and in some places not well understood. There are infections that do not cause illness in humans at all, but there are also those that are deadly for him.

Hoping for a favorable outcome of chlamydia without treatment is to expose yourself to the risk of severe complications for the sake of a illusory hope of recovery.

Scabies and pubic pediculosis are, of course, not sexually transmitted diseases, but they are transmitted very well through sexual contact. We will not dwell on them in particular, we will only note that these insects have no reason to leave their main habitat. Human skin is home to scabies mites and pubic lice. This is how nature made them. And why should they leave this house?

Considering most of the known STI, we can conclude that trying to sit at home in the hope of "maybe it will blow over" is not worth it. Yes, there is a certain probability that some diseases will go away on their own, but is it worth hoping for this and endangering your health?

Female genital infections are classified as a group of diseases, the mode of transmission of which is sexual. These are pathologies that can be caused by a bacterial infection, protozoa or viruses. Such pathologies include: papillomavirus, herpes, mycoplasma, ureaplasma, gonococcal, chlamydial infections, trichomoniasis, etc.

A feature of STIs is that they can be transmitted in other ways (for example, by contact). They are able to affect both the sexual and other organ systems, causing pathological processes in them. Infection of the female genital organs can manifest itself in various clinical manifestations. They depend not only on the type of pathogen, but also on its location.

Among the causative agents of the inflammatory process of the genitals include not only pathogenic, but also conditionally pathogenic microflora. As a rule, pathogenic flora is always absent in the normal vaginal biocenosis.

In case of penetration into the vaginal microflora, it begins to multiply and causes inflammation characteristic of this type of pathogen.

In women, genital tract infections are caused by the following types of pathogens:

• HPV (papillomavirus, human papillomavirus) causes the appearance of neoplasms on the skin and mucous membranes, provokes the development of an erosive process of the cervix. In the absence of timely therapy, the process can lead to cancer.

• Herpes virus.
• The causative agent of chlamydia (chlamydia).
• Trichomonas leading to trichomoniasis.
• Gonorrhea is the causative agent of gonorrhea.
• The causative agent of syphilis (pale treponema).

Conditionally pathogenic flora, activated, can cause inflammation. But the diseases they cause are not venereal.

Opportunistic pathogens are natural inhabitants of the vaginal flora.

With a shift in the acid-base balance of the vaginal environment, these microorganisms contribute to the development of the inflammatory process in the genitourinary system.

The group of conditionally pathogenic flora, which provokes the development of colpitis, nonspecific urethritis, bacterial vaginosis, includes:

• gardnerella;
• streptococcal infection;
• staphylococci;
• yeast-like fungi, etc.

Causes of infection in women

The occurrence of genital infections in women is associated with the penetration of the pathogen into the body.

Risk factors that contribute to infection include:

• sexual contact with partners leading an antisocial lifestyle and promiscuity;
• insufficient or lack of personal hygiene;
• the use of low-quality contraceptives;
• blood transfusions during operations;
• organ transplantation;
• donation.

The provoking factors are the weakening of the immune defense and the abuse of bad habits.

Also, eating disorders (lack of vitamins and trace elements), physical overwork, frequent stay in a state of stress. Infection of the body with STIs contributes to poor health. They can even lead to serious consequences, such as infertility and even death.

How do female genital infections manifest?

In the vast majority of cases, women experience the following symptoms of the presence of a sexual infection:

• pain during the act of urination;
• a fairly frequent trip to the toilet, while the daily diuresis does not change;
• the presence of fetid-smelling leucorrhoea, released from the genital tract;
• pain and discomfort during intercourse.

Symptoms of infection are characteristic for a certain type of pathogen of the genital organs. For example:

• papillomavirus pathology is characterized by the formation of warty growths and warts in the anogenital zone;
• for a fungal infection (candidiasis) - the presence of cheesy white discharge with the smell of sour milk and severe itching;
• for syphilis - the formation of ulcerative lesions (hard chancre) on the genitals and an increase in inguinal lymph nodes;
• gonorrhea is characterized by purulent discharge and hyperemia of the vulvar mucosa;
• for trichomonas colpitis - the presence of foamy discharge with the smell of rotten meat;
• genital herpes is characterized by the presence of blisters with transparent contents and a strong burning sensation in the affected area. Often there is an increase in body temperature.

In most cases, the symptoms of infection in women depend on where the infection occurred.

• If the infection is localized in the urethra, then there will be complaints of frequent visits to the toilet, as well as pain and discomfort when urinating.

• Symptoms of an infection of the labia will be manifested by hyperemia and swelling of the mucosa, as well as pain when touched.
• If the cervical canal (cervicitis) is affected, a woman will complain about the presence of spotting during or after intercourse.
• inflamed endometrium (endometritis) will make itself felt by pathological manifestations of menstrual irregularities in the form of pain in the lower abdomen.

The timing of the appearance of the first signs of contagiousness varies depending on the type of pathology.

The incubation period of STIs for different diseases is individual. It can take several days or stretch in time up to several months and even years. In some cases, the disease can occur without any characteristic symptoms. As a rule, in about 20-40% of cases, and even more often, signs of infection do not appear.

Diagnosis of female genital infections

Based only on the characteristic signs of the disease, treatment will not be prescribed.

Until it becomes clear which type of pathogen provoked the inflammatory process. Therefore, whatever the sexual infection, symptoms alone cannot serve as a basis for a diagnosis. Treatment should be prescribed only according to the results of laboratory diagnostics.

To clarify the diagnosis, the following types of tests are performed:

• Bacterioscopic examination is effective if the infection is localized in the vagina and urethra.
• Bakposev discharge from the vagina and urethra.
• Carrying out PCR diagnostics in order to detect the genetic material of the pathogen, regardless of where the infection is localized.
• A blood test for the presence of antibodies to a pathogen that could cause a woman to develop a genital infection.

Where do you get tests for female genital infections?

A bacterial infection is available for detection in swabs taken from the genital tract. It may also be present in the mouth and anus if the woman is having oral or anal sex. In this case, in women, sexually transmitted infections may show signs of inflammation of the oral cavity. For example, in the form of stomatitis, tonsillitis, pharyngitis. As well as the rectum (symptoms of proctitis). Therefore, in the presence of these symptoms, the doctor should take a smear not only from the mouth, but also from the anus.

Where the doctor will take biomaterial for research depends on:

• medical history data collected by the doctor, i.e., on what type of sexual contact the patient could have with a sexual partner infected with a contagious disease;
• the data obtained as a result of the examination and the woman's complaints (the presence of rashes, hyperemia, swelling and sore throat, as well as the nature of the discharge from the anus).

Which doctor treats female genital infections

Treatment of infectious lesions of the reproductive system in women is carried out not by one specialist, but by different specialists. This approach to treatment is explained by the ability of pathogens to affect both the genitals and other organ systems.

Treatment of pathological processes caused by infection of the female reproductive system, as a rule, is carried out by the following specialists:

• dermatovenereologist;
• gynecologist;
• infectious disease specialist;
• hepatologist;
• gastroenterologist;
• rheumatologist.

A dermatovenereologist is a specialist who can conduct an examination and prescribe an appropriate course of treatment.

A woman can contact this specialist in the following cases:

• if you have sex with an infectious sexual partner;
• if there is contact without the use of protective equipment with a man about whose health there are doubts;
• when rashes or ulcerative formations appear on the genital mucosa or skin integuments of various parts of the body;
• the occurrence of skin neoplasms;
• if condylomas appeared on the mucous membranes.

In addition to examination with a dermatovenereologist, you can discuss the best methods of contraception. Also ask for help in choosing a preventive treatment (drug prophylaxis) for venous diseases.

But, as a rule, any woman initially tries to visit a gynecological office.

The reasons that contribute to the treatment of a woman to the doctor, most often, are:

• the appearance of pathological whites;
• soreness in the genital area;
• the presence of an unpleasant odor from the genital tract;
• discomfort during sexual intercourse;
• abnormal pregnancy;
• impossibility of conception (infertility).

The gynecologist also resolves issues related to the complications of the infectious process and the pathology of the woman's reproductive function.

An infectious disease specialist treats HIV-infected people infected with hepatitis B and C, herpetic and cytomegalovirus infections.

A gastroenterologist and a hepatologist are specialists who treat diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, including the liver.

Their main role is the treatment and monitoring of patients affected by viral hepatitis B and C.

A rheumatologist is a doctor whose patients are patients with autoimmune pathologies.

Also with diseases that contribute to the destruction of connective tissue. So, for example, chlamydial infection can cause the manifestation of Reiter's syndrome. This is a disease that is manifested by damage to the joints, conjunctiva of the eyes and genital mucosa.

How and how to treat female genital infections

The method of therapy depends on the type of infection that caused the pathological process.

Infection of the female genital organs is caused by various groups of microorganisms.

Therefore, depending on the disease, certain drugs are prescribed.

• Diseases that are caused by bacteria (chlamydia, syphilis, gonorrhea) are treated with antibacterial drugs. What kind of antibiotics to drink will be told by the doctor after a complete examination. Due to the fact that every year sexual infections develop more and more resistance to antibiotics, diseases become more difficult to treat, as pathogens acquire resistance to antibiotics that previously coped well with them. Thanks to her, it becomes more and more difficult to cope with the infection each time, and there are practically no options for a therapeutic effect. They can be used in different forms: in the form of injections or tablets. Monural is used to treat cystitis. With syphilis, antibiotics of the penicillin series are prescribed. They are administered intramuscularly. Ceftriaxone is used to treat gonorrhea, which is administered intravenously or intramuscularly.
• For genital herpes and HIV infection, antiretroviral drugs are used. They are able to weaken the effect of the virus, but cannot completely rid a person of the infection. The virus remains in the body forever.
• With trichomoniasis, protozoal preparations are prescribed. For example, Tinidazole or Ornidazole.
• For the treatment of hepatitis, immunomodulators and antiretroviral agents are prescribed. Immunomodulators help protect the liver from the toxic effects of antiviral agents.
• For the treatment of fungal pathologies, drugs with fungicidal action are used. Systemic and local drugs are prescribed. The use of funds for local treatment is the main one in candidiasis. Vaginal suppositories or tablets are prescribed. Oral preparations with fluconazole or clindamycin are prescribed. Their effectiveness is observed in 90% of cases. In the absence of an effect after treatment, tests are taken to inoculate the biomaterial for sensitivity to antimycotic drugs. Based on the results obtained, further therapy is carried out.
• Therapy for diseases caused by viruses depends on the type of pathogen. With HPV, neoplasms are removed with the further appointment of immunomodulators.

Urethral instillations for female genital infections

For the treatment of certain genital infections (for example, with gonorrhea), washing the vagina or bladder with antiseptic solutions is indicated. They are injected into the vagina or urethra. Washing with antiseptic solutions contributes to the rapid destruction of pathogenic flora. It is necessary to carry out instillation within the first two hours after unprotected sexual contact, in this way infection can be prevented.

Miramistin, Chlorhexidine, preparations containing silver have a preventive effect as antiseptics.

Solutions are injected into the urethra daily or every other day.

Instillations into the bladder are carried out only in the conditions of the treatment room, so the use of a catheter is required.

Treatment of genital tract infections during pregnancy

Treatment of infections during pregnancy presents some difficulties for the gynecologist. Since in this state, not all possible means can be applied. Many of the drugs are toxic to the fetus.

During pregnancy, a ban on the use of fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines has been introduced. Antiviral treatment can only be carried out with Acyclovir.

Of the macrolides, Azithromycin has the least danger.

With gonococcal infection, preference is given to Ceftriaxone.

Fortunately, most of the penicillin drugs are not toxic.

Because not even able to penetrate the amniotic fluid.

In this regard, antibiotic therapy for syphilis is indicated at any stage of pregnancy.

Female genital infections and traditional medicine

Medicine has come a long way in recent years. And the methods of treatment with the help of folk remedies do not become a thing of the past and remain relevant.

There are many ways to treat "grandmother's methods". According to folk healers, there are no plants in the world that could not cure a sexual infection in a woman. With the help of medicinal plants, herbalists recommend preparing herbal decoctions. They are used not only for oral administration, but also for douching.

Perhaps, herbal decoctions can simply saturate the body with minerals and vitamins. Thus, they will affect the improvement of immune protection, but they will not be able to destroy pathogens in the body. That is, this method is 100% untenable.

In addition, self-medication can cause certain complications:

• spread of infection along the ascending path;
• lead to infertility;
• contribute to the transition of the disease to a chronic state;
• negatively affect internal organs and organ systems.

As a result of such consequences, the patient will sooner or later have to go to the doctor.

But a neglected condition will be treated much longer and more difficult. In severe cases, hospitalization may even be required.

Is it possible to have sex during the treatment of infections in a woman

During the healing process, sexual abstinence is attributed.

This is explained by the following reasons:

• so that a sick person cannot become a source of infection for other people;
• in order to prevent the spread of infection in an ascending way through the body;
• prevention of further injury to the mucous membranes, which are already damaged.

In addition, during illness, for many women, sexual relations are only a burden.

Since they cause discomfort:

• Patients feel pain when touching the genital mucosa.
• Bleeding of the mucous epithelium may be noted.
• The discharge has an unpleasant odor that can repel a sexual partner.

If a woman is ready for such sensations, then she has the right to disobey the doctor and have sex.

But, in any case, you must use a condom.

Prevention of female genital infections

To prevent the possibility of contracting STDs, it is now possible to get vaccinated against dangerous diseases such as HPV and hepatitis B.

In addition, you can protect yourself from genital infections if:

• avoid sexual contact with unfamiliar people whose health is in doubt;
• condom use;
• minimize non-traditional forms of sex, especially with unverified partners;
• the use of special protective equipment, especially during sexual intercourse with a new partner.

Where to go for treatment of sexually transmitted infections

If there are signs of infection with any of the genital infections, you should immediately consult a doctor. This may be a local gynecologist, or a venereologist, leading an appointment in a clinic or a skin care clinic. The specialist will give a referral for tests, the results of which will allow the doctor to prescribe the correct treatment.

Treatment in Moscow can be done not only at the place of residence, but also in one of the private clinics.

Benefits of this choice include:

• the possibility of in-depth diagnostics, which allows to detect hidden infections;
• high level of qualification of specialists;
• polite attitude of the medical staff;
• maintaining anonymity.

If you suspect female genital infections, please contact experienced gynecologists and venereologists of our medical center.

Classification

Signs and symptoms

Not all STIs are symptomatic, and symptoms may not appear immediately after infection. In some cases, the disease can occur without any symptoms, which is associated with a high risk of transmitting the disease to others. Depending on the disease, some untreated STIs can lead to infertility, chronic pain, or even death. The presence of STIs in prepubertal children may indicate sexual abuse.

Cause

Broadcast

Risk of unprotected intercourse with an infected person

Oral sex with a man (performing): chlamydia in the throat, gonorrhea of ​​the throat (25-30%), herpes (rare), HPV, syphilis (1%). Possibly: hepatitis B (low risk), HIV (0.01%), hepatitis C (unknown)

Oral sex with a woman (performing): herpes, HPV. Possibly: gonorrhea of ​​the throat, chlamydia of the throat.

Oral sex, male recipient: chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, syphilis (1%). Possibly HPV

Oral sex, female recipient: herpes. Possibly HPV, bacterial vaginosis, gonorrhea

Vaginal sex, male: chlamydia (30-50%), pubic louse, scabies, gonorrhea (22%), hepatitis B, herpes (0.07% for HSV-2), HIV (0.05%), HPV (high : about 40-50%), Mycoplasma Hominis infection, syphilis, trichomoniasis, ureaplasmosis, possible hepatitis C

Vaginal sex woman: chlamydia (30-50%), pubic louse, scabies, gonorrhea (47%), hepatitis B (50-70%), herpes, HIV (0.1%), HPV (high; about 40- 50%), Mycoplasma Hominis infection, syphilis, trichomoniasis, ureaplasmosis, possible hepatitis C

Anal sex is an active partner: chlamydia, pubic louse, scabies (40%), gonorrhea, hepatitis B, herpes, HIV (0.62%), HPV, syphilis (14%), hepatitis C

Anal sex is a passive partner: chlamydia, pubic louse, scabies, gonorrhea, hepatitis B, herpes, HIV (1.7%), HPV, syphilis (1.4%), possibly hepatitis C

Anilingus: amoebiasis, cryptosporidiosis (1%), giardiasis, hepatitis A (1%), shigellosis (1%), possibly HPV (1%)

Bacterial infections

Fungal infections

Viral infections

Viral hepatitis (hepatitis B virus) - saliva, venereal fluids. (note: hepatitis A and hepatitis E are transmitted by the fecal-oral route, hepatitis C is rarely transmitted sexually, and the route of transmission of hepatitis D (only if a person is infected with hepatitis B) is uncertain but may involve sexual transmission).

Herpes simplex virus (HSV 1, 2) of the skin and mucous membranes, transmitted with or without visible blisters

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) - genital fluids, semen, breast milk, blood

HPV (human papillomavirus) - skin and mucous membranes. The "high-risk" types of HPV cause almost all cervical cancers, as well as some cancers of the anus, penis, and vulva. Some other types of HPV cause genital warts.

Molluscum contagiosum - close contact

• Pubic louse (Pthirus pubis)

  Scabies (Sarcoptes scabiei)

Protozoal infections

Trichomoniasis (Trichomonas vaginalis)

Main types

Sexually transmitted infections include:

Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. In women, symptoms may include abnormal vaginal discharge, burning during urination, and bleeding between menstrual cycles, although most women do not experience any symptoms. Symptoms in men include pain when urinating as well as abnormal discharge from the penis. Left untreated, in both men and women, chlamydia can lead to urinary tract infections and can potentially lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID can cause serious problems during pregnancy and even have the potential for infertility. This can lead to a potentially fatal ectopic pregnancy in a woman, and the birth of a baby outside the uterus. However, chlamydia can be treated with antibiotics.

The two most common forms of herpes are caused by infection with the herpes simplex virus (HSV). HSV-1 is usually transmitted orally and causes herpes, HSV-2 is usually transmitted during sexual contact and affects the genitals, however any strain can affect any area of ​​the body. Some people show no symptoms or have very mild symptoms. People who have symptoms usually notice them 2 to 20 days after infection, which lasts 2 to 4 weeks. Symptoms may include the formation of small fluid-filled blisters, headaches, back pain, itching or tingling in the genital or anal area, pain during urination, flu-like symptoms, swollen glands, or fever. Herpes is spread through skin contact with a person infected with the virus. The virus infects the areas where it enters the body. Infection can occur through kissing, vaginal intercourse, oral sex, or anal sex. The virus is most contagious when symptoms are visible, but asymptomatic people can also transmit the virus through skin contact. The initial attack of the disease is the most severe because the body does not have any antibodies against it. After the initial attack, repeated attacks are possible, which are weaker. There is no cure for this disease, but there are antiviral drugs that treat its symptoms and reduce the risk of transmission (Valtrex). Although HSV-1 is typically the "oral" version of the virus and HSV-2 is typically the "genital" version, a person with oral HSV-1 can transmit the virus genitally to their partner. Any type of virus will settle in a nerve bundle either at the top of the spine, producing an "oral" outbreak, or in a second nerve bundle at the base of the spine, producing a genital outbreak.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common STI in the United States. There are over 40 different types of HPV, and many of them do not cause any health problems. In 90% of cases, the body's immune system clears the infection naturally within 2 years. In some cases, the infection cannot be cleared out and can lead to genital warts (vesicles around the genitals that can be small or large, raised or flat, or cauliflower-shaped) or cervical and other HPV-related cancers. Symptoms may not appear until the cancer is advanced. It is important for women to have Pap smears to check for and treat cancer. There are also two vaccines available for women (Cervarix and Gardasil) that protect against HPV types that cause cervical cancer. HPV can be transmitted through genital contact, as well as during oral sex. It is important to remember that an infected partner may not have any symptoms.

Gonorrhea is caused by a bacterium that lives on moist mucous membranes in the urethra, vagina, rectum, mouth, throat, and eyes. The infection can be spread through contact with the penis, vagina, mouth, or anus. Symptoms of gonorrhea usually appear 2 to 5 days after exposure to an infected partner, but some men may not have symptoms for up to one month. Symptoms in men include burning and pain during urination, increased frequency of urination, discharge from the penis (white, green, or yellow), red or swollen urethra, swollen or tender testicles, or sore throat. Symptoms in women may include vaginal discharge, burning or itching during urination, soreness during intercourse, severe pain in the lower abdomen (if the infection has spread to the fallopian tubes), or fever (if the infection has spread to the fallopian tubes), however many women do not have symptoms. There are some strains of antibiotics that are resistant to gonorrhea, but most cases can be treated with antibiotics.

Syphilis is an STI that is caused by a bacterium. Left untreated, it can lead to complications and death. Clinical manifestations of syphilis include ulceration of the genitourinary tract, mouth, or rectum. Without treatment, the symptoms worsen. In recent years, the prevalence of syphilis has decreased in Western Europe, but has increased in Eastern Europe (countries of the former Soviet Union). A high incidence of syphilis occurs in Cameroon, Cambodia, Papua New Guinea. Syphilis is also spreading in the United States.

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) damages the body's immune system, which negatively affects its ability to fight disease-causing organisms. The virus kills CD4 cells, which are white blood cells that help fight infections. HIV is carried in body fluids and is also spread through sexual activity. It can also be transmitted through contact with contaminated blood, breastfeeding, childbirth, and from mother to child during pregnancy. The most advanced stage of HIV is called AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). There are different stages of HIV infection. Stages include primary infection, asymptomatic infection, symptomatic infection, and AIDS. During the primary infection stage, a person exhibits flu-like symptoms (headache, fatigue, fever, muscle aches) for about 2 weeks. During the asymptomatic stage, symptoms usually disappear and the patient may remain asymptomatic for many years. As HIV progresses to the symptomatic stage, the immune system is weakened and CD4+ T cell counts are low. When an HIV infection becomes life-threatening, it is called AIDS. People with AIDS fall prey to opportunistic infections and die. When the disease was first discovered in the 1980s, AIDS patients did not live beyond a few years. There are currently antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) available for the treatment of HIV infection. There is no known cure for HIV or AIDS, but drugs help suppress the virus. By suppressing the amount of virus in the body, people can lead longer and healthier lives. Even though their levels of the virus may be low, they can still transmit the virus to other people.

Diseases not amenable to screening

There are many species of bacteria, protozoa, fungi, and viruses, many of which remain undocumented or poorly understood in relation to sexual transmission. Sexually transmitted microbes are far from limited to the above list. Because sexual transmission is not considered common, and/or the microbe itself is not involved in a large disease study, the following pathogens are simply not screened in sexual health clinics. Some of these microbes can be sexually transmitted. Sexually transmitted germs (but not commonly considered STDs/STIs) include:

Pathophysiology

Many STIs are (more easily) transmitted through the mucous membranes of the penis, vulva, rectum, urinary tract, and (less commonly, depending on the type of infection) of the mouth, throat, respiratory tract, and eyes. The visible membrane covering the glans penis is a mucous membrane, however, it does not produce mucus (as do the lips). Mucous membranes differ from skin in that they allow certain pathogens to enter the body. The number of contacts with infectious sources that cause infection varies among pathogens, but in all cases, the disease can result from even light contact of the mucous membrane with carrier fluids, such as venereal fluids. This is one reason why many infections are much more likely to be transmitted through sex than through more casual means of transmission such as non-sexual contact - skin contact, hugs, handshakes, but it's not the only reason. Although the mucous membranes in the mouth are similar to those of the genitals, many STIs are more easily transmitted through oral sex than through deep kissing. Many infections that are easily transmitted from mouth to genitals or from genitals to the mouth are much more difficult to spread from mouth to mouth. In the case of HIV, sexual fluids contain much more of the pathogen than saliva. Some infections, considered STIs, can be transmitted by direct skin contact. Examples are the herpes simplex virus and HPV. Kaposi's sarcoma herpesvirus, on the other hand, can be transmitted by deep kissing and also when saliva is used as a sexual lubricant. Depending on the STI, a person may still be able to spread the infection even if they don't show any signs of the disease. For example, a person is much more likely to spread a herpes infection when blisters are present than when they are absent. However, a person can spread HIV infection at any time, even if he/she does not have AIDS symptoms. All sexual activity that involves contact with another person's bodily fluids should be considered as having some risk of transmitting STDs. The focus has been on fighting HIV, which causes AIDS, but each STD is a different situation. As the name suggests, sexually transmitted diseases are passed from one person to another through certain sexual activities, rather than being caused by those sexual activities themselves. Bacteria, fungi, protozoa or viruses are the causative agents of these diseases. It is impossible to "catch" any of the sexually transmitted diseases through sexual activity with a person who does not have the disease; conversely, a person who has an STI acquired it from contact (sexual or otherwise) with a person whose bodily fluids contained the causative agent. Some STIs, such as HIV, can be passed from mother to child or during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Although the likelihood of transmission of various diseases through different sexual activities varies greatly, in general, all sexual activities between two (or more) people should be considered as a two-way route for the transmission of STIs, that is, both "transmitting" and "taking" are risky. , although the host bears a higher risk. Doctors suggest that safe sex, such as using condoms, is the most reliable way to reduce the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases during sexual activity, but safe sex should by no means be considered an absolute guarantee of protection. Transmission and exposure to bodily fluids, such as through transfusions of blood and other blood products, sharing injection needles, needle trauma (when medical personnel inadvertently use needles during medical procedures), sharing tattoo needles, and childbirth are other means. transmission. Certain populations, such as healthcare workers, people with hemophilia, and drug users, are at particularly high risk. Recent epidemiological studies have examined the networks defined by sexual relationships between people and have found that the properties of sexual networks are critical to the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. In particular, assortative mixing between individuals with a large number of sexual partners is an important factor. It is possible to be an asymptomatic carrier of a sexually transmitted disease. In particular, sexually transmitted diseases in women often cause serious pelvic inflammatory disease.

Prevention

Prevention is key for incurable STIs such as HIV and herpes. Sexual health clinics promote condom use and reach the most vulnerable in society. The most effective way to prevent sexual transmission of STIs is to avoid contact of body parts or fluids that could lead to transmission with an infected partner. Not all sexual activities involve contact: cybersex, phone sex, or long-distance masturbation are ways to avoid contact. Proper use of condoms reduces the risk of transmitting STDs. Although a condom is an effective means of limiting exposure, transmission of the disease can occur even when a condom is used. Both partners should be tested for STIs before starting sexual contact, or before resuming contact if the partner is involved in contact with someone else. Many infections are not detected immediately after exposure, so there must be sufficient time between possible exposure and testing. Some STIs, in particular some persistent viruses such as HPV, may not be detectable with current medical procedures. Many diseases that are associated with the development of persistent infections can become so busy with the immune system that other diseases can be more easily transmitted. The innate immune system, led by anti-HIV defensins, can prevent HIV transmission at very low viral loads, but if the immune system is occupied with other viruses or overloaded, HIV can establish itself. Some viral STIs also significantly increase the risk of death in HIV-infected patients. Strategies to increase testing for HIV and STIs have been successful. Some hospitals use home testing kits where the person is asked to return the test for later diagnosis. Other institutions strongly encourage previously infected patients to be retested to ensure that the infection has been completely cleared. New strategies to encourage retesting include using text messages and email as a reminder. These types of reminders are currently used in addition to phone calls and letters.

Vaccines

Vaccines are available that protect against some viral STIs, such as hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and some types of HPV. Vaccination prior to sexual intercourse is recommended to provide maximum protection. Vaccines are being developed to protect against gonorrhea.

condoms

Condoms and female condoms only provide protection when used properly as a barrier, and only in the area they cover. Uncovered areas remain susceptible to many STIs. In the case of HIV, sexual transmission routes almost always involve the penis because HIV cannot be spread through intact skin; thus, proper protection of the penis, correct use of a condom during vaginal or anal sex effectively stops HIV transmission. Contact with infected fluid on broken skin is associated with direct transmission of HIV infection, which would not be considered a "sexually transmitted infection" but could still theoretically occur during sexual contact. This can be avoided by simply not engaging in sexual contact when there is an open, bleeding wound. Other STIs, even viral infections, can be prevented by using latex, polyurethane, or polyisoprene condoms as a barrier. Some microorganisms and viruses are small enough to pass through the pores of natural leather condoms, but are still too large to pass through latex or synthetic condoms.

Proper use of male condoms:

Do not put on the condom too tight, leaving a 1.5 cm tip for ejaculation. Avoid inverting or spilling liquid from a used condom, whether it contains ejaculate or not.

If the user tries to roll out the condom but realizes that they have used it on the wrong side, then the condom should be discarded.

Be careful with the condom if you use it with long nails.

Avoid using oil-based lubricants with latex condoms, as oil can cause holes in them.

Only use flavored condoms for oral sex, as the sugar in the flavor can lead to a yeast infection if used for vaginal/anal sex.

In order to best protect yourself and your partner from STIs, an old condom and its contents should be considered contagious. Thus, the old condom must be properly disposed of. A new condom should be used for each intercourse, as repeated use increases the chance of a condom breaking.

Nonoxynol-9

The researchers hoped that nonoxynol-9, a vaginal microbicide, would help reduce the risk of STIs. Trials, however, have shown this remedy to be ineffective and may be associated with a higher risk of HIV infection in women.

Survey

Sexually active women under 25 and over 25 at risk should be screened annually for chlamydia and gonorrhea. After treatment for gonorrhea, all patients should be re-evaluated for the presence of the disease after three months. Nucleic acid amplification tests are the recommended method for diagnosing gonorrhea and chlamydia. These tests may be done using urine in men and women, vaginal and cervical swabs in women, or urethral swabs in men.

Diagnostics

Testing may be done for a single infection, or it may consist of several tests for a range of STIs, including tests for syphilis, trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, herpes, hepatitis, and HIV. There is no procedure for testing for all existing infections. Tests for STIs can be used for a variety of reasons:

as a diagnostic test to determine the cause of symptoms or disease

as a screening test for asymptomatic or presymptomatic infection

to check the health of potential sexual partners if unprotected sex is planned (for example, at the beginning of a long mutually monogamous sexual relationship, with the consent of both partners to practice unprotected sex, or for procreation).

as a check before or during pregnancy to prevent harm to the baby

as a check after birth to check that the baby has not contracted an STI from the mother

to prevent the use of contaminated donated blood or organs

for tracing sexual contacts in an infected individual

within the framework of mass epidemiological control

Early detection and treatment is associated with a reduced chance for disease spread, as well as improved outcomes for some diseases. There is often a "window" period after exposure during which an STI test will be negative. During this period, the infection may be transmissible. The length of this period varies depending on the infection and the test. Diagnosis may also be delayed due to the reluctance of the infected person to seek medical attention. One report indicates that people are turning to the Internet, rather than medical professionals, for information about STIs more than for other sexual problems.

Treatment

In cases of high risk of infection, such as rape, combinations of antibiotics such as azithromycin, cefixime, and metronidazole can be used. An option for treating partners of patients (carriers) diagnosed with chlamydia or gonorrhea is the partner therapy method, in which the doctor gives a prescription or medication to the patient and their partner at the same time, without the need for additional testing of the partner.

Epidemiology

STD rates remain high in most parts of the world, despite diagnostic and therapeutic advances that can quickly render many patients with STDs non-communicable and quickly cure most diseases. In many cultures, changing sexual morality and the use of oral contraceptives have eliminated traditional sexual restrictions, especially for women, and both clinicians and patients have difficulty speaking openly and frankly about sexual issues. In addition, the development and spread of resistant bacteria (eg, penicillin-resistant gonococci) makes it difficult to treat some STDs. The effect of travel is most vividly illustrated by the rapid spread of the AIDS virus (HIV-1) from Africa to Europe and America in the late 1970s. The most common STIs among sexually active adolescent girls with and without lower genital tract symptoms include chlamydia (10-25%), gonorrhea (3-18%), syphilis (0-3%), trichomonas (8-16% ), and herpes simplex virus (2-12%). Among adolescent boys without symptoms of urethritis, culturing rates include chlamydia (9-11%) and gonorrhea (2-3%). A 2008 CDC study found that 25-40% of American teenage girls have a sexually transmitted disease. AIDS is one of the leading causes of death in sub-Saharan Africa. HIV/AIDS is transmitted mainly through unprotected intercourse. Over 1.1 million people in the United States have HIV/AIDS. and these diseases disproportionately affect African Americans. Hepatitis B is also considered an STD because it can be spread through sexual contact. The highest rates are in Asia and Africa, while the lower rates are in the Americas and Europe. Approximately two billion people worldwide have been infected with the hepatitis virus.

Story

The first well-documented outbreak of syphilis in Europe occurred in 1494. The disease broke out among the French troops besieging Naples during the Italian War of 1494-98. The cause of the disease could be the exchange that followed the discoveries of Columbus. From Naples, the disease spread throughout Europe, killing more than five million people. Jared Diamond says: "When syphilis was first definitely documented in Europe in 1495, patients often had pustules covering the body from head to knees, causing peeling of the skin of people's faces, and leading to death within a few months." The disease then was much more fatal than it is today. Diamond concludes, "By 1546, the disease had developed into a disease with symptoms so well known to us today." Gonorrhea has been documented up to at least 700 years ago and is associated with the district in Paris formerly known as "Le Clapiers". It was a place where prostitutes congregated. Before the invention of modern medicines, sexually transmitted diseases were generally incurable and treatment was limited to treating the symptoms of the disease. The first charitable hospital for the treatment of sexually transmitted diseases was founded in 1746 at London's Lock Hospital. Treatment was not always voluntary: in the second half of the 19th century, the Infectious Diseases Acts were used to arrest suspected prostitutes. In 1924, a number of states concluded the Brussels Agreement, under which states agreed to provide free or low-cost medical care in ports for merchant seafarers with venereal diseases. The first effective treatment for sexually transmitted diseases was salvarsan, a drug for the treatment of syphilis. With the discovery of antibiotics, a large number of sexually transmitted diseases became easily curable, and this, combined with effective public health campaigns against STDs, led to the fact that in the 1960s and 1970s society ceased to perceive these diseases as a serious threat to health. During this period, the importance of contact tracing in the treatment of STIs was recognized. Tracing the sexual partners of infected individuals, testing them for infection, treating those infected, and tracing their contacts has enabled clinics to effectively suppress infections in the general population. In the 1980s, the idea arose in the public mind that there were sexually transmitted diseases that could not be cured by modern medicine, the first of which was genital herpes, and the second was AIDS. AIDS in particular has a long asymptomatic period during which HIV (the human immunodeficiency virus that causes AIDS) can replicate and the disease can be transmitted to others, followed by a symptomatic period that is quickly fatal if left untreated . HIV/AIDS entered the United States from Haiti around 1969. Gavin L, Moskosky S, Carter M, Curtis K, Glass E, Godfrey E, Marcell A, Mautone-Smith N, Pazol K, Tepper N, Zapata L (Apr 25, 2014). Division of Reproductive Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, CDC. “Providing Quality Family Planning Services: Recommendations of CDC and the U.S. Office of Population Affairs. MMWR. Recommendations and reports: Morbidity and mortality weekly report. Recommendations and reports / Centers for Disease Control. 63 (RR-04): 1–54. PMID 24759690

Quilliam Susan (2011). "The Cringe Report". J Fam Plann Reprod Health Care. 37(2): 110–112.

Expedited Partner Therapy in the Management of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (2 February 2006) U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention National Center for HIV, STD, and TB Prevention

“CDC study says at least 1 in 4 teen girls has a sexually transmitted disease; HPV most common. The Oklahoma. March 11, 2008

Diamond, Jared (1997). Guns, Germs and Steel. New York: W.W. Norton. p. 210. ISBN 84-8306-667-X.

Gilbert MT, Rambaut A, Wlasiuk G, Spira TJ, Pitchenik AE, Worobey M (November 2007). "The emergence of HIV/AIDS in the Americas and beyond". Proc. Natl. Acad. sci. U.S.A. 104(47): 18566–70. doi:10.1073/pnas.0705329104. PMC 2141817free to read. PMID 17978186. Retrieved March 20, 2010.