Can be sexually transmitted. What diseases are sexually transmitted

What are sexually transmitted infections, more or less accurately everyone knows in our time. But so many myths are associated with "shameful diseases" that it is sometimes quite difficult to figure out where is the truth and where is a lie. the site, with the help of a dermatovenereologist, debunks the most common myths about STIs.

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)/Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)/STDs are a hot topic in the health sections.

It is not so easy to understand the huge flow of information, and most importantly, to find the most reliable and most simple for the perception of a person who has not studied the art of healing.

Coming to an appointment with a doctor, especially dealing with issues "intimate" diseases, Every patient experiences stress in one way or another.

Waiting for test results is a period accompanied by anxiety, even if you are completely confident in yourself and your sexual partner.

And finally, the conclusion of a doctor with unfamiliar words in the line "diagnosis" - almost every person experienced all this.

It's great if the doctor tries to explain the patient's condition and answers all the questions of interest, but quite often doctors do not waste time on empty, in their opinion, explanations.

In addition, relationships with loved ones can deteriorate due to lack of information and myths that still exist today.

In this article, we have collected the most common misconceptions about STIs that are often heard from patients or seen on the pages of the global Internet.

Can you get it in the pool?

Myth 1.
STIs include: gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, genital herpes, anogenital warts (human papillomavirus), chancre, lymphogranuloma venereum, donovanosis, gardnerellosis (bacterial vaginosis), mycoplasmosis, ureaplasmosis, candidiasis, HIV, hepatitis B and C.

10 myths about sexually transmitted infections

This statement contains both true and false information.

STIs do include: gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, genital herpes, anogenital warts (human papillomavirus), soft chancre, venereal lymphogranuloma, donovanosis.

As for "gardnerellosis" - such a diagnosis does not exist at all.

The condition (and not the disease) of a violation of the microflora of the vagina (dysbacteriosis) is called bacterial vaginosis, and can be provoked by many reasons.

This condition does not apply to STIs and can occur even in girls who are not sexually active.

The vaginal biocenosis includes a huge number of microorganisms and a violation of the microflora can be associated not only with a microorganism called Gardnerella vaginalis (Gardnerella vaginalis).

Mycolasmosis and ureaplasmosis are not STIs and still remain a topic of discussion among physicians.

Both myco- and ureaplasmas are classified as conditionally pathogenic microorganisms and require treatment under certain conditions.

It is worth noting that both myco- and ureaplasma can be transmitted through unprotected sexual intercourse, and then, getting into the body of a healthy person, they can:

after some time, be forced out (that is, disappear) under the influence of normal microflora;

remain in the body in small amounts without causing disease;

remain in the body in small amounts, but at the same time cause clinical manifestations of inflammatory diseases - discharge from the urethra, genital tract, discomfort during urination, etc .;

Found in large numbers with or without clinical manifestations.

On practice, treatment is more often prescribed in cases 3 and 4, as well as before a planned pregnancy.

Candidiasis (or thrush), in fact, is a type of violation of the microflora of the vagina, but is not called bacterial vaginosis. Candidiasis is not an STI.

HIV, viral hepatitis B and C are infectious diseases.

The risk of transmission during sexual intercourse is not so significant, the main route of transmission is hematogenous (through the blood).

However, since there is a risk of transmission of these diseases through sexual contact, it is recommended to include them in a comprehensive screening for STIs.

Sexual infections do not always have bright symptoms!

STIs can be contracted in swimming pools, baths, bathrooms

10 myths about sexually transmitted infections

It is also a very common misconception. All STI pathogens are unstable in the external environment and quickly die outside the human body.

In addition, infection requires that a certain number of pathogens enter the body, as well as conditions of close contact, which is achieved only during sexual intercourse.

STIs are only transmitted through vaginal sex

This is one of the most common misconceptions. Almost all STIs, with the exception of trichomoniasis, transmitted through all types of unprotected sexual contact - vaginal, oral and anal.

The causative agents of STIs, in addition to lesions of the genitourinary system, can cause proctitis, pharyngitis, conjunctivitis.

Urinating and washing the genitals immediately after intercourse significantly reduces the risk of contracting an STI

To what extent do these procedures reduce the risk STI infection, difficult to answer, but you should not rely on them, - they do not reduce the risk of infection.

Even with the use of local antiseptics, there is a possibility of infection, and pure running water does not have antiseptic properties.

Douching immediately after intercourse reduces the risk of contracting STIs

Douching should only be used as directed by a doctor. At first glance, this is a harmless procedure, but it can harm your health.

This method not only does not reduce the risk of infection, but in some cases contributes to the penetration of pathogens higher through the genitourinary system and may lead to severe infections.

The use of oral contraceptives and topical spermicides protects not only against pregnancy but also against STIs

It has now been proven that The most effective protection against STIs is a condom.

Neither combined oral contraceptives nor topical spermicides can provide reliable protection against STIs.

You can't get an STD from coitus interruptus

10 myths about sexually transmitted infections

Coitus interruptus occupies one of the leading places among the methods of protection against pregnancy and STIs, according to a survey of patients who come to the appointment. It all happens because of the same lack of information.

Many women believe that pregnancy can only occur if, at the peak of arousal, ejaculation (ejection of spermatozoa) into the vagina occurs.

However, from the very beginning of sexual intercourse, along with the lubrication of the urethra, single spermatozoa can enter the vagina, which can also fertilize the egg and, accordingly, pregnancy will occur.

Sexual (vaginal) infection, or vaginitis, is an inflammation of the vagina that results in abnormal discharge, odor, irritation, or itching. Vaginitis is not easy to detect because it has many different causes. To treat itching, discharge, and discomfort caused by this infection, women use various non-prescription drugs.

The most common symptoms of various forms of vaginitis are vaginal discharge, itching and burning. Although the symptoms of these infections can be very similar, there are some differences in the color and smell of the discharge.

Some vaginal discharge is normal for women of childbearing age. Normally, the glands of the cervix produce a cleansing mucous secretion that flows out of the body, mixing with bacteria, detached cells of the vagina and the Bartholin's gland of the vaginal vestibule. These substances give the mucus a whitish color depending on the amount of mucus, and the secretions turn yellow when exposed to air. During the menstrual cycle, there are periods when the glands of the cervix produce more mucus than others, depending on the amount of estrogen produced. This is fine.

In women, sexual arousal and emotional stress also affect normal vaginal discharge. Such secretions are a transparent substance, similar to mucus.

If your discharge has changed in color, for example, turned green, is accompanied by an unpleasant odor, changes in consistency, or has increased significantly, decreased in quantity, then you may be developing a form of vaginitis.

• Bacterial vaginosis can be the cause of pathological discharge with an unpleasant odor. Some women have a strong fishy smell, especially after sexual contact. The discharge is usually white or gray in color and may be runny. This may be accompanied by burning when urinating or itching in the vaginal area, often both. Some women have no symptoms of bacterial vaginosis at all.
• yeast infection or candidiasis leads to a thick, white-gray "curdled" discharge and is accompanied by itching. There may be severe itching in the genital area. This often causes pain during urination and sexual intercourse. Vaginal discharge may not always be. Men with genital candidiasis may have an itchy rash on their penis. In men, this infection does not cause any symptoms or other infections.
• Trichomoniasis causes frothy vaginal discharge that may be yellow-green or gray, accompanied by itching and irritation in the genital area, burning during urination, which is often mistaken for urinary tract infections. During intercourse, discomfort and an unpleasant odor may appear. Since trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted disease, symptoms may appear within 4 to 20 days after sexual contact. Symptoms are rare in men, but if they are, it may be a thin, whitish discharge from the penis, pain, or difficulty urinating.
• Pain itself is not a common symptom of vaginal infections other than itching. But this is a sign that you need to see a doctor.
• If you have vulvodynia, it may be accompanied by burning, sharp pain, irritation, sores on the genitals, but no infection or skin disease of the vulva or vagina. The pain may come and go. This is a completely different disease that requires further measures and consultations with a doctor.

When to Seek Medical Care

Seek medical attention if you have pain. Although vaginal infections can cause unpleasant itching, they do not cause pain.

Make an appointment with your doctor if you are experiencing symptoms of a yeast infection for the first time, unless you are sure it is a yeast infection. And if you are sure, then you need to undergo a course of treatment with over-the-counter drugs. But if the symptoms do not go away after such treatment, then you may have a yeast infection.

• Although a yeast infection is uncomfortable, it is not a life-threatening illness. But you need to see a doctor. Moreover, seek medical attention if you have:
• Vaginal discharge yellow and foul-smelling
• Pain in the abdomen or lower back
• Nausea or fever
• Symptoms return within two months
• Other pelvic disorders with similar symptoms should be checked for by contacting an emergency room doctor. Seek medical attention if the following symptoms are present:
• If vaginal discharge is accompanied by fever, nausea, or abnormal pain, or if there is blood in the discharge, then this is not considered a normal menstrual period - you should go to the emergency room.
• If the symptoms have not shown improvement after three days, the discharge continues in large quantities or if the initial symptoms have worsened.
• You have greenish or profuse discharge or fever.
• You are taking antifungal medications for yeast infections, your skin and eyes have turned yellow (the whites of your eyes), or you have pale stools.
• Pathological changes and rashes appear everywhere, that is, painful, red, purulent bumps that can spread to the thighs and anus.
• There was dizziness.

Tests for vaginal infections

Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and do a physical examination. Most likely, you will need to pass urine and smears of secretions for analysis.

• You may be asked the following questions:
• When did the first symptoms appear? Were there any changes in discharge during the month?
• What do these secretions look like? What color and texture are they? Is there a smell?
• Do you have pain, itching or burning?
• If there is a sexual partner, does he also complain about discharge from the penis?
• How many sexual partners do you have?
• Do you use condoms?
• What relieves the symptoms of discharge? How often do you take baths? Have you taken over-the-counter drugs? Do you douche?
• What other symptoms do you have?
• What drugs do you take for other diseases?
• Have you changed the detergents and soaps you use?
• Do you often wear tight underwear, trousers or jeans?
• During a pelvic exam, the doctor examines the vagina and cervix for discharge and inflammation. During a pelvic exam, your doctor will determine the size and location of your uterus and cervix, and determine whether you have pain or tenderness to movement in or around your cervix and uterus, which corresponds to your fallopian tubes and ovaries.
• A speculum is inserted into the vagina to examine the cervix. A swab of any discharge is taken to determine whether a woman's infection is fungal (thrush), protozoal (trichomoniasis), or bacterial (bacterial vaginosis). The laboratory then examines a sample of vaginal discharge under a microscope to determine the presence of microorganisms that cause vaginal infections.
• In some cases, a Pap test is done to rule out the possibility of cervical cancer. For this test, a swab is sent to a laboratory and the results are available within a week.
• You may be ordered to have a colposcopy or biopsy if your doctor determines that your cervix is ​​abnormal. Colposcopy uses a light microscope to get a magnified view of the surface of the cervix. In the case of a biopsy, tissue samples are taken for analysis.
• Some blood tests may show the presence of antibodies to yeast, an infection that causes candida white. This test is not very reliable and is only necessary if the infection affects the entire body of the patient.
• If trichomonas is found and it is confirmed by laboratory tests, the doctor may prescribe more tests to detect other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Treatment of genital infections in women

Diagnosis is usually made based on symptoms and results of urinalysis and vaginal microflora cultures, that is, smears examined in the laboratory. Treatment is given based on the type of organism causing the infection. Depending on the cause of the infection, the doctor may prescribe vaginal suppositories, antifungal tablets, or antibiotics in the form of tablets or injections. Treatment varies and depends on the type of vaginitis, the severity, duration and frequency of the infection, and whether you are pregnant.

Treatment at home

Bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis will not go away if you treat yourself with over-the-counter medications. This requires antibiotics. You need to see a doctor.

Only a yeast infection can be treated with over-the-counter drugs. If you have never had such an infection and you think you have, it is important that your doctor make a diagnosis before you start self-treatment or over-the-counter medications. Usually, the first case of a yeast infection should be treated by a doctor.

• If you have a second infection and you are sure it is a yeast infection, you can self-treat with over-the-counter medications such as miconazole (trade name Monistat, etc.) and vaginal antifungals.
• With the availability of over-the-counter medications, many women self-identify that they have a yeast infection. Although in fact, about two-thirds of all drugs for yeast infections bought in pharmacies were used by women who did not really have one. The use of drugs when they are not needed can lead to resistance of the infection. Such infections are very difficult to treat with modern drugs. If in doubt, consult a doctor.
• Many modern over-the-counter drugs are designed for mild disease. The success rate for OTC treatments is 75%-90%.
• The drugs are sold in the form of vaginal suppositories or creams. They are inserted into the vagina with an applicator, usually every day for a week. Higher dosages can be resorted to only for 1-3 days. Most women can treat a yeast infection at home with the following medications:
• Miconazole (Monistat-7, M-Zole)
• Thioconazole (Vagistat Vaginal)
• Butoconazole (Femstat)
• Clotrimazole (Femizol-7, Gyne-Lotrimin)
• Massage these products into the vagina and apply to the surrounding tissues for 1-7 days, or insert the suppository into the vagina according to the form and instructions. In case of increasing irritation on the application area, immediately stop taking the drug.
• If you are pregnant, seek the advice of a doctor before using the drug.
• If symptoms persist for more than 1 week, see your doctor. You may have a more severe yeast infection or another condition that has symptoms similar to those of a yeast infection.
• Home treatments for infections in women have been used for many years, although scientific studies have not confirmed their effectiveness.
• Douching with vinegar. Although women douche for cleansing after a menstrual period or sexual intercourse, doctors do not approve of this method. The vagina is designed in such a way that it cleans itself. Douching can also flush out healthy bacteria from the vagina. Trying to treat abnormal vaginal discharge with douching can make your condition worse. In case of abnormal discharge, do not douche without notifying your doctor and do not douche 24 hours before your doctor's appointment.
• Eating yogurt that contains live lactobacillus acidophilus or the same bacteria in capsules. Yogurt creates an environment for certain beneficial bacteria to thrive. Despite popular belief, studies on the benefits of eating lactobacillus acidophilus in preventing yeast infections have been controversial. The benefits of eating yogurt cultures have not been scientifically proven.
• Other retail products contain antihistamines or local anesthetics, which only mask symptoms and do not treat infections in women.

Medicines for genital infections

• Bacterial vaginosis: Your doctor may prescribe the antibiotics metronidazole (Flagyl) or clindamycin (Cleocin). Usually, male partners are not treated for such a disease. Many women with symptoms of bacterial vaginosis do not seek medical attention, and those who do not have symptoms do not receive treatment. This disease does not go away on its own without treatment.
• yeast infection: If you have a yeast infection for the first time, then you need to consult a doctor before starting home treatment with over-the-counter drugs. Usually, the doctor recommends the use of vaginal creams and other products more often than oral drugs. Pregnant women with such an infection are treated longer and under close supervision.
• More severe infections require antifungal medications, which are usually taken orally in one go. This may be fluconazole (Diflucan) or itraconazole (Sporanox). These drugs have a success rate of over 80% and can be given for 3-5 days. Drugs can lead to liver disorders. Symptoms of the disorder in some cases may be yellow skin and eyes, pale stools. If you have any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. He, most likely, will immediately stop taking the drugs, send him for a blood test and prescribe a liver function test.
• In cases of less severe infection in women, vaginal tablets or creams with an applicator may be prescribed. An example would be nystatin (Mycostatin) with a treatment success rate of around 75% - 80%. The success rate of treatment with Miknazol (Monistat-7, M-Zole) and clotrimazole (Miselex, Gyne-Lotrimin) is about 85%-90%.
• In some cases, a single dose of the drug has shown efficacy in the treatment of yeast infection. In other cases, a longer intake of the drug from 3 to 7 days may be prescribed.
• If the infection appears intermittently, i.e., more than 4 times a year, then it may be necessary to use drugs such as fluconazole and itraconazole orally or clotrimazole for vaginal administration for 6 months.
• Pregnant women require a longer course of treatment. It is very important to consult your doctor before starting treatment.
• Trichomoniasis: Metronidazole is prescribed for trichomoniasis. It is usually taken in a single dose. Do not drink alcohol while taking this drug because in some cases these two substances can cause severe nausea and vomiting. This drug is prescribed to both partners, even if they do not have symptoms of this disease.

Aftercare

If you have a diagnosis of vaginitis, then make sure that the genital area remains clean and dry. Take a shower instead of a bath. It will also prevent future infections. During the course of treatment, do not douche or use feminine hygiene products in the form of aerosols. Avoid sexual intercourse during treatment.

After returning from the doctor, refrain from sexual intercourse until the treatment is completed and the symptoms subside.

Further observation

Ask your doctor for the results of your cervical tests and Pap tests. It is recommended to undergo a complete physical examination every year, regardless of the presence of symptoms.

• The chemical balance in the vagina is very sensitive, so it's best to let the vagina cleanse itself. This cleansing process occurs naturally through the secretion of mucus. It is best to clean the outside of the vagina with warm water and mild, unscented soap while bathing or showering. Products such as intimate soaps, powders and sprays are not necessary at all, they can even be harmful.
• Douching is rinsing or cleansing the vagina by squirting water or another solution into the vagina, such as a vinegar solution, baking soda, or a douche that you can buy at a pharmacy. Water or solution is sold in a bottle and injected into the vagina using a special device with a nozzle. Although douching is often used by women in the US, doctors do not recommend this procedure for vaginal cleansing. Douching changes the sensitive chemical balance of the vagina, making it more likely for women to develop vaginal infections. Studies show that women who douche frequently are more likely to develop vaginal infections than those who do not douche at all or very infrequently.
• Douching does not help prevent pregnancy, it is not necessary to do it after sexual contact.

Prevention of genital infections in women

• The best way to prevent bacterial vaginosis is not yet known. However, bacterial vaginosis has been associated with a change in a woman's sexual partner or with the presence of several partners. This disease is rarely found in women who have never had sexual intercourse. The main methods of preventing the disease include the use of condoms, limiting the number of partners, refraining from douching, using all prescribed drugs, even if the symptoms have disappeared.
• In most cases, a yeast infection can be easily prevented.
• Keep your vagina dry, especially after showering.
• After using the toilet, wipe from front to back.
• Wear looser cotton underwear.
• Change your swimsuit after swimming.
• Do not wear tight jeans or tights.
• Pregnant women should seek medical attention immediately if any symptoms appear.
• Do not use deodorized tampons, they contain chemical irritants. Do not douche or use feminine hygiene products. Regular bathing is usually sufficient to cleanse the vagina.
• Trichomoniasis is also preventable. If you have been diagnosed with this infection, your partner should also be tested. He or she may also have other sexually transmitted diseases and there is a possibility of reinfection if the partner is not treated. Safer sex with condoms and counseling about sexually transmitted diseases can help reduce the risk of infection and re-infection.

Prognosis for sexual infections

With the right diagnosis and treatment, all forms of vaginitis usually respond well to treatment, with symptoms decreasing and disappearing altogether. If the symptoms do not go away or return again, then it is necessary to re-examine the doctor.

• Bacterial vaginosis is associated with pelvic inflammatory disease, which leads to infertility and ectopic pregnancy. Bacterial vaginosis can lead to preterm labor and low birth weight babies. Your doctor will monitor you closely if you are pregnant or if you have already had a preterm birth. Bacterial vaginosis poses a risk for gonorrhea and HIV infection.
• Trichomoniasis has been associated with an increased risk of HIV transmission, as well as with the birth of children with low body weight, premature birth.

The first signs and symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases in women (STDs, STIs)

The negative side of sexually transmitted infections is that certain types of pathology are difficult to treat. The only option for the patient is to detect inflammation in a timely manner, i.e., the first signs and symptoms of STDs and be tested for sexually transmitted diseases. This increases the likelihood that complications will not arise, and the underlying health problem can be eliminated in a short time.

The first signs of sexually transmitted diseases in women

There are seven main first signs of sexually transmitted diseases in women, finding which you do not need to postpone a visit to the gynecologist:

Abnormal copious discharge from the genitals, having an unpleasant odor, a specific consistency.

Frequent urination, accompanied by soreness and general discomfort.

Enlargement of regional lymph nodes (especially in the groin).

Pain in the lower abdomen and inside the vagina.

Painful menstruation (uncharacteristic before).

Discomfort during intimacy, sensation of a foreign object, general inflammation of the mucous membrane of the genital tract.

Along with the listed symptoms of venous disease, a woman will notice reddening of the genital area and anus, in certain cases - erosion, blisters, rashes.

STD symptoms in women

Symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases that occur in women are similar only at first glance. Such a sign as discharge and rash may differ in color, consistency, localization; an increase in temperature is not always relevant, and an increase in lymph nodes is a phenomenon that is not characteristic of every sexually transmitted infection. Therefore, in order to differentiate pathology, not one symptom is taken into account, but a complex of them.

List of STI infections in women

Chlamydia

The first signs of STDs in women are observed after 1-4 weeks from the moment of infection. A woman develops purulent discharge, urination becomes painful, an unpleasant sensation spreads to the lower abdomen, lumbosacral back. Noteworthy is the fact that bleeding occurs between menstruation.

If you ignore the listed symptoms of STDs in women and do not start treating the pathology, there is a high probability of inflammation of the fallopian tubes and cervix. Also, chlamydia adversely affects the course of pregnancy, creates additional difficulties in the process of labor. A newborn whose mother is sick with the sexually transmitted disease in question may develop conjunctivitis, inflammation of the nasopharynx, and lungs.

Trichomoniasis

Changes in health status become noticeable in the period from 4 to 21 days from the moment of infection.

The course of this disease confirms that the first signs of sexually transmitted diseases in women do not always look like purulent discharge from the vagina. With trichomoniasis, the patient notes abundant discharge of a foamy consistency. They are white or yellowish-green in color and are accompanied by a pungent odor. As the secretion comes into contact with the cover of the genital tract, which causes severe itching, intense irritation of the genitals, pain - both at rest and during urination.

A woman prefers to observe sexual rest, because intimacy causes discomfort due to extensive inflammation inside the organs of the reproductive system. Quite often, the pathology proceeds without severe symptoms of STIs.

It is important to identify the violation as early as possible, since the complications that it entails are serious - damage to the cervix and the inner layer of the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, ureters, urethra. Along with diseases such as cystitis, endometritis, a critical condition, defined as peritonitis, may develop. Its symptoms are consistently high body temperature, pain in the peritoneum, sepsis.

Mycoplasmosis

The disease develops rapidly. The first symptoms of STIs in women are detected already 3 days after contact with an infected partner. In rare clinical cases, detection occurs only after a month. The incessant itching, discomfort in the area of ​​​​the external and internal genital organs attracts attention. Urination causes excruciating pain, discharge from the urogenital tract is insignificant, more often transparent.
Unlike men, in whom mycoplasmosis causes problems with sperm production, the functional activity of the reproductive organs of women does not suffer, and the main health problems are reduced to chronic inflammation of the genital organs.

Syphilis

A common sexually transmitted disease caused by the penetration of the pale spirochete into the body. The first signs of STIs in women are noticeable only after 3 weeks from the moment of infection (this is the minimum period).

Identifying the infection is quite simple: the obvious symptoms of STDs in women come down to extensive swollen lymph nodes, the appearance of roseola (red spots) and hard chancre. The general condition of the patient occurs with drastic changes - the period of remission may be replaced by an exacerbation. At the time of development of pink and red multiple spots on the surface of the skin, the level of body temperature rises.

A hard chancre is a specific neoplasm that clearly indicates the presence of syphilis. A well-defined erosion with a hard bottom is approximately 1 cm in diameter. The inflammatory element heals on its own, timely treatment will help speed up this process. If enlarged lymph nodes are located near a hard chancre, they are absolutely painless.

Among other manifestations of a venereal infection, massive hair loss attracts attention. If the patient does not seek medical help for a long time, extensive damage to internal organs occurs, which in 25% of cases leads to death.

Gonorrhea

Widespread infection. Without symptoms, STDs never occur in women: within a week (on average) after infection, vaginal discharge characteristic of gonorrhea appears. Pathological masses have a yellow or slightly greenish color, an extremely unpleasant purulent odor. Due to the constant contact of secretions with the mucous membrane of the bladder, cystitis develops - inflammation of this organ. The excretion of urine becomes more frequent, the process causes pain, there are constant pulling pains in the lower abdomen, additional bleeding occurs between menstruation.

Against the background of these signs, the body temperature rises, there is a general malaise, problems with the skin condition, the disease also affects the condition of the hair. If a venereal infection is ignored for a long time, the spleen and liver suffer. The immune system reduces its natural properties.

Often, gonorrhea is detected only when they turn to a gynecologist or urologist - with complaints of suspected cystitis, adnexitis, or endometritis. Gonorrhea tends to involve the tissues of the anus, uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes in the main pathological focus. The most serious complication of the disease is infertility.

Laboratory diagnosis of venereal infections in women

When the doctor collects the maximum information regarding the state of the disease, clarifies the existing complaints and conducts an examination, the patient needs to undergo a series of tests. Since the symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases in women resemble those of many other diseases, laboratory testing includes the following aspects:

1. Sowing secretions. The procedure, carried out in a bacteriological laboratory, takes a long time (at least 1 week), although its result unmistakably indicates an existing health problem.

2. A smear for microflora. With a special medical probe, a sample of secretions is taken from the patient from three points of the genital canal. Then the material is placed on a glass slide, stained with a special medium for a more accurate study of the composition of the secretion, and carefully examined under a microscope. In this way, the pathogen of bacterial and fungal origin is detected. Viruses are not detected by performing a smear.

3. ELISA (enzymatic immunoassay). A sample of vaginal discharge is subjected to study. The result of the study is ready after 5 hours (on average) after taking the analysis.

4. PCR. The most informative analysis to confirm the preliminary diagnosis. To perform a polymerase chain reaction or test for the DNA of the pathogen, a sample of urine or secretions from the genital canals is taken from the patient. The duration of the study on average does not exceed 2 days, the accuracy of the analysis is up to 95%. The method allows to identify infections of a latent or chronic course. If the patient has purulent inflammation, it is recommended to do an ELISA or culture.

5. To determine specific antibodies, venous blood is taken. The purpose of the study is to determine whether an immune response will occur in the presence of a particular pathogen. The method is effective in cases where it is necessary to confirm infections of viral origin (HIV, genital herpes) and syphilis. Since antibodies to bacteria are present in the blood for quite a long time (including after a therapeutic course), the method is never used to diagnose bacterial STIs, including chlamydia. You can read more about STD testing on our website.

In addition to the above tests, the venereologist prescribes a biochemical and clinical blood test, which reveals leukocytosis and an increase in ESR.

Not all sexually transmitted infections are treatable - genital herpes and human papillomavirus infection, for example, can only be stopped. The need for long-term treatment and the wide range of possible complications should motivate early medical attention.

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 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.

The causative agents of infections 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 harmless, 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. Reveals 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 into 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. It is guided by test data, the severity of 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.

Sexually transmitted diseases or sexually transmitted infections are a group of diseases that are caused by bacteria and protozoa, fungi and viruses. This group of infections has spread among people who are promiscuous and do not use condoms, who are prone to antisocial existence, alcoholism and drug addiction. Without exception, all STIs have long-term consequences, including damage to the central nervous system, liver, bones and other organs.

Causes of STIs

It is not in vain that sexually transmitted infections are named after the goddess Venus - infection by them in most cases occurs during close contact with the carrier of the disease. Most often this occurs during intercourse without the use of barrier contraceptives.

The causative agents of the infection may be:

• in the saliva of the carrier;
• on the skin (most often near the mouth, in the perianal region, in the perineum);
• in seminal fluid and vaginal secretions.

It is possible to get an STD without direct contact with the carrier. Often, infection occurs when using shared dishes, towels, razors, sponges and washcloths. This way of transmission is called domestic.

Important! Even bar soap can become a source of infections. Despite its ability to destroy pollution, it is a good breeding ground for many pathogens of STIs.

Sexual infections are not as harmless as it might seem at first glance. Among the complications arising after the transfer of STIs, infertility and miscarriage in women, prostatitis and impotence in men, diseases of the liver and central nervous system are mentioned.

What diseases are STDs?

Important! Candida and nonspecific urethritis and colpitis, bacterial vaginosis, provoked by conditionally pathogenic microflora, do not belong to sexually transmitted diseases.

Bacterial infections

Bacterial infections, predominantly sexually transmitted, are considered the most numerous among all STIs. This category of diseases includes:

• inguinal and venereal granulomas;
• syphilis;
• chlamydia;
• gonorrhea;
• mycoplasmosis;
• ureaplasmosis.

There are other bacterial infections that are predominantly sexually transmitted, which are extremely rare in Russia and the post-Soviet space. For example, soft chancre, the causative agent of which is the bacterium Haemophilus ducreyi, is diagnosed mainly in the inhabitants of Africa and America.

Viral infections

Sexually transmitted viral infections are less numerous than bacterial ones, but the number of people infected by them reaches impressive figures.

According to the statistics of the World Health Organization, at least 50% of sexually mature people on the planet are infected with the human papillomavirus, and this disease also belongs to the category of STIs.

A feature of viruses that can be infected during sexual contact is that they can be in an inactive state for a long time, and manifest themselves with a decrease in immunity or against the background of other diseases. The following viral sexual infections are among the most common:

• human immunodeficiency virus (HIV);
• herpes simplex virus;
• human papillomavirus (HPV);
• cytomegalovirus;
• Hepatitis B.

This is not a complete list of viral sexual infections. They also include Kaposi's sarcoma, the Zika virus and other diseases that are diagnosed in a relatively small number of people.

Protozoal infections

Protozoal infections include diseases of the reproductive system, the causative agent of which is Trichomonas vaginalis. According to statistics, trichomoniasis is the most common disease among all sexually transmitted infections.

According to the World Health Organization in 2000, at least 10% of all people on Earth, including newborns and the elderly, are infected with these microorganisms.

Fungal infections

Fungal infections that are sexually transmitted are represented by thrush. Its occurrence is due to the increased activity of the conditionally pathogenic microorganism Candida albicans, a yeast-like fungus that lives on the mucous membranes of the mouth, vagina, and large intestine.

The disease develops against the background of a decrease in general and local immunity, an imbalance of microflora, after prolonged use of antibiotics.

• phthiriasis (pubic pediculosis), the causative agent of which is the pubic louse;
• scabies, the causative agent of which is the scabies mite.

Almost all sexually transmitted infections, even if they are asymptomatic, are fraught with complications. Most often they are manifested by infertility, miscarriage, chronic inflammation of the uterus and appendages, the prostate gland. Certain types of STIs provoke the formation of benign and malignant tumors.

Diagnostics

For the diagnosis of genital infections, a standard set of methods is used:

• visual inspection;
• laboratory research;
• instrumental research.

Based on complaints and the results of an external examination, the doctor can assume which infection is present in the patient:

Laboratory diagnosis of STIs includes a number of studies of biological samples:

• direct and fluorescent smear microscopy;
• cultural method of smear examination;
• detection of antigens of causative agents of sexual infections in the blood - direct immunofluorescence and enzyme immunoassay;
• detection of DNA of causative agents of STIs by polymerase chain reaction;
• detection of antibodies to pathogens of sexual infections in the blood.

Additionally, instrumental studies may be prescribed - ultrasound of the pelvic organs (uterus and appendages, prostate gland), liver and abdominal organs (if hepatitis is suspected) and others.

Treatment

Methods of treatment of genital infections depend on the type of disease and pathogens found during the diagnosis. The basis of therapy is the intake of medicines inside and their use externally. Additionally, immunomodulatory and immunostimulating agents and drugs are prescribed that help restore the functions of organs and systems affected by the disease.

The groups and names of drugs used to treat sexually transmitted infections are shown in the table:

Treatment for sexually transmitted infections may also include surgery and minimally invasive interventions. Especially often they are used when signs of HPV (genital warts) appear on the genitals and in the perianal region. Neoplasms are removed with a laser, radio wave method or excised with a conventional scalpel.

Important! HIV, AIDS, herpes types I and II, HPV and hepatitis C cannot be cured forever. Patients will have to adapt to life with them and take special medications constantly or in separate courses.

The elimination of genital infections will be effective only if both sexual partners undergo a course of therapy. At the time of treatment, it is advisable to refuse sex, or use barrier contraceptives.

STI prevention

The first step of preventive measures is to inform young people about what infections are sexually transmitted and how dangerous they are. According to statistics, more than 20% of venereologist patients do not know the elementary rules of contraception or ignore them. Meanwhile, to avoid unpleasant diagnoses and their negative consequences, it is enough:

• use barrier contraceptives, condoms are best;
• lead an orderly sex life and do not change partners too often;
• avoid casual sexual contact;
• observe personal hygiene;
• do not use other people's personal hygiene items (toothbrush, shaving machine, etc.).

In the prevention of sexually transmitted infections, a special role is played by the timely detection of diseases. It is recommended that men and women of puberty be regularly tested for dangerous infections such as hepatitis C, HIV, syphilis and others. Such analyzes are considered mandatory for pregnant women and those whose work involves direct contact with people: doctors, cooks, attendants, teachers, drivers and others.

If you suspect an STD infection, it is advisable to undergo a complete examination. Today, this can be done anonymously in private clinics and laboratories. It is necessary to treat sexual infections immediately after their detection and only under the guidance and supervision of a venereologist.