STD Risks & Complications

How does STDs Spread

STDs are transmitted through unprotected vaginal, anal or (occasionally) oral sex or through direct contact with a sore, rash or mucous membrane. STDs can be passed between sex partners even if the man does not ejaculate. STDs can also be transmitted during vaginal childbirth, during which the mother can unknowingly pass her infection to her baby. As a result, the child can potentially develop a serious eye infection or pneumonia.

Effect of untreated STDs

Sexually transmitted infections that are left untreated can lead to serious health and reproductive issues. A woman with untreated case of STD can acquire PID (pelvic inflammatory disease). PID damages the uterus and fallopian tubes and as a result can lead to infertility, ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage and chronic pelvic pain.

For men an untreated STI can cause pain and inflammation in penis, prostate and testes or rarely even infertility. If you have had a recent unprotected sexual encounter, it is highly recommended to get a consultation with a qualified physician for STDs as the symptoms are not commonly displayed.

Can somebody get re-infected with STD

Yes, it is possible to get re-infected with STDs, especially if you have sex with an infected partner. Antibiotics you take can cure only your own infection, not also your partner’s infection. Antibiotics will not make you immune to the infection that causes the infection. This is why it is important that both you and your partner get tested & treated together and abstain from sexual activity until treatment is complete for both the partners. It is advised to wait 7 days after completing treatment before engaging in sexual activity again.

Are STDs preventable?

The only way to prevent or reduce your risk of contracting STD is sexual abstinent. if you engage in sexual intercourse, you can use a latex condom or dental dam whenever you have oral, vaginal or anal sex. Condom do not eliminate the risk of contracting the infection from sores that a condom doesn’t cover. You can help decrease your odds of a STD by practicing monogamy or limiting your number of sexual partners. Finally, if you suspect that you have STD, or experience any unusual symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately. Getting tested for STDs with your partner can ensure both your sexual health and theirs.

Importance of informing your partner you have STD

If diagnosed, it is important to inform your partner about your STI as soon as possible because STDs are highly contagious infections. In fact, you and your partner may want to get tested and treated for STDs together, so that you can minimise your chances of acquiring the infection again or passing it along to someone else.

Is there a relationship between HIV and other STDs?

An untreated STI increases an individual’s chances of acquiring or transmitting HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. In particular, women with STD are at greater risk of getting HIV than those without STD. all sexually active individuals need to seriously consider annual STD screenings as a way to help maintain optimal sexual health.

The importance of pregnant woman getting tested for STDs

In pregnant women, untreated STI can lead to premature delivery. According to the CDC, chlamydia infection is the leading cause of prenatal pneumonia and conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, in new-born. The best method for preventing such neonatal complications is for pregnant women to get screened and tested for STIs by their doctor during their first prenatal visit.

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