Understanding STDs: Prevalence, Types, and Symptoms


Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) affect millions of individuals every year, impacting their reproductive and sexual health. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 30 pathogens may transmit sexually, causing multiple infections simultaneously. 

However, the lack of symptoms and the stigma around STDs leads to unawareness about one’s sexual health. Booking an STD health check-up package once a year is recommended for every sexually active individual’s well-being.

Prevalence of STDs

STDs are caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs). These infections spread through sexual contact and spread via bodily fluids. WHO estimated that around 374 million new STI infections were found in 2020, indicating the rising rates of STDs around the world.

Common Types of STDs

There are different types of STDs commonly found in men and women across the world: -

  • Chlamydia: It spreads due to infection with Chlamydia trachomatis. It usually does not have any symptoms and can spread through anal, vaginal, and oral intercourse. 
  • Syphilis: A bacterial infection caused by spirochete Treponema pallidum with four stages, each having its specific symptoms. In 2022, WHO reported 8 million new cases of syphilis among adults (15 to 49 years), indicating the need to create more awareness about safe intercourse practices. 
  • Genital Herpes: Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV) causes infection in the genital area with minimum to no symptoms. There is no cure for genital herpes; medications help manage the outbreak and its symptoms.

Symptoms of STDs

Different STDs have various symptoms in men and women. Sometimes, the infection may not exhibit any active symptoms. The most common STD symptoms in an individual: -

  • Soreness or bumps on the genitals
  • Penis discharge
  • Painful urination
  • Unusual vaginal bleeding 
  • Pain during sex
  • Fewer 
  • Lower abdominal pain
  • Rashes

Who Should Get STD Test Done?

A person should consult a doctor if they are sexually active and are experiencing any of the aforementioned symptoms. Individuals who had unprotected intercourse with an infected person must book a reasonably-priced STD test at a reputed pathology lab. 

This should be followed with regular health check-ups for the physical well-being of oneself and their partner. 

The government and medical fraternity unanimously promote sexual health education and awareness. It is imperative to ensure sexual well-being with a comprehensive testing program.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Top Reasons Why a Regular Full Body Check-Up Is Crucial

Image
Regular health check-ups are a vital part of maintaining a heathy lifestyle. While it was okay to visit the doctor only when one felt unwell years ago, times have changed, and today’s fast-paced life has led to health taking the backseat for many. With rising instances of lifestyle diseases, being proactive with healthcare is one of the best ways to stay ahead. Following a healthy lifestyle with adequate nutrition in one’s diet and regular physical activity in their schedule is important for good health, but so are regular full body health check-ups. With irregular work timings, irregular sleep cycles, unhealthy eating habits, and constant pressure, many people in the working age group have become more vulnerable to developing lifestyle diseases. Regular health check-ups are essential for one to be able to keep a check on one’s health. Here are some reasons why booking a regular full body health check-up package is a good idea: Preventing Health Issues A full-body check-up includes sev
Read more

Laboratory Testing in India: What You Need to Know?

Image
Top medical labs in India have test centres in different cities to make healthcare accessible to everyone. These laboratories have a wide range of medical screenings, including pregnancy-related tests, liver tests, and  anti mullerian hormone test at affordable pricesnull . Medical tests are essential for healthcare professionals to diagnose, monitor, and manage various health conditions. These tests can range from simple blood tests to more complex imaging studies. Understanding the procedures and how they are conducted can help individuals prepare and feel more at ease during their healthcare journey. Laboratory Test Preparation Top medical test centres have a standard protocol followed by medical professionals and phlebotomists who conduct the screenings. These professionals are highly skilled and adhere to the guidelines set by the medical laboratory. Individuals can ask their medical professionals about any test preparation required before the medical test. It is vital to disclose
Read more

Types of Hepatitis – A Brief Understanding

Image
  Hepatitis is a medical condition that occurs due to internal swelling or inflammation in the liver. This inflammation arises due to an excessive intake of alcohol and drugs and exposure to certain chemicals, viruses, autoimmune hepatitis, etc. By taking a well- price d liver function test ( LFT ), it is possible to confirm if an individual has hepatitis or not. Following are the types of hepatitis that one should know about. Hepatitis A Hepatitis A is a short-term or acute illness that transmits through the faucal-oral route. If an infected person does not wash well after using the loo, the disease can be contracted by others. Apart from this, eating shellfish that comes from contaminated water can also cause this type of hepatitis. Hepatitis B The main cause of hepatitis B is when the person gets infected by the hepatitis B virus. Hepatitis B can be of two types, namely, acute or chronic, depending on the duration of the disease. People infected with chronic hepatitis B are at a h
Read more