|
|
|
 |
|
Knowing your STDs is important
2/2/2010
Sexually Transmitted Diseases. Just the phrase can make some persons cringe uncomfortably, while others often find it one to giggle about.
However, there is nothing funny about the many diseases one can contract during the act of sexual intercourse, especially if it is unprotected sex.
In this article, some of the most commonly known STDs, their signs and symptoms and their treatment are looked at.
Chlamydia, is caused by the bacterium, Chlamydia trachomatis, and is often hard to diagnose because in most cases it shows no symptoms in either males or females.
Males infected with this may suffer from discharge from the penis, a burning sensation while urinating, pain and swelling of the testicles or penis and itching around the opening of the penis.
If it goes untreated men may suffer from urethral infection or it may spread further to cause pain, and infertility.
In women, the symptoms are abnormal vaginal discharge or a burning when urinating as the bacteria attacks the cervix first.
The infection then spreads into the fallopian tubes, causing lower abdominal pain, low back pain, nausea, fever, pain during intercourse, and bleeding between periods. But, again many women experience none of these.
When the infection enters the upper reproductive system, permanent damage can occur to the fallopian tubes and uterus and this sadly, is irreversible.
This can lead to infertility or complications during pregnancy.
Treatment can simply be achieved with the correct type of antibiotics.
Symptoms of Gonorrhea, more commonly referred to as “clap” usually appear two to five days after infection, but can appear up to 30 days after. If left untreated, this can result in infertility in both genders.
Women tend to experience a pain while urinating, increased vaginal discharge or bleeding between periods.
For men, symptoms include a burning sensation while urinating, or a white, green or yellow discharge from the penis and sometimes, a swelling and pain in the testicles.
Rectal infection can occur, including painful bowel movements, anal itching, soreness and bleeding.
Herpes can cause “cold sores” or blisters in the genital area, which when broken can cause tender sores to be left behind, which heal between two and four weeks.
Another herpes outbreak occurs a few weeks or months after the first as the infection can stay in the body for an indefinite period.
There is no known cure for herpes, but drugs are available to increase the healing process during an outbreak.
If you have experienced any of the above symptoms and have not yet contacted your doctor, do so as soon as possible, especially since early detection could lead to prevention of more serious complications. (JM)
Email
us your comments. | Top
|
|
|
|
|
