Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) require early detection and treatment to effectively control the infection and reduce the risk of transmission. Professional medical services provide comprehensive testing and tailored treatment plans based on the condition.
Common sexually transmitted diseases include:
● Human papillomavirus (HPV)
Associated with cervical cancer and other STDs. Testing typically involves HPV DNA tests and Pap smears. Early lesions can be treated with cryotherapy or loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP). Vaccines are available for certain high-risk HPV types.
● Syphilis
Caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, mainly transmitted through sexual contact or mother-to-child. Symptoms include skin ulcers and swollen lymph nodes; untreated syphilis can affect the nervous system and heart. Diagnosis involves rapid plasma reagin (RPR) and treponemal antibody (TPPA) tests.
● Gonorrhea
Caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, symptoms include urethral discharge and pain. Untreated gonorrhea can cause infertility and other complications. Detection is by urine tests or cultures from vaginal/cervical secretions.
● Chlamydia infection
Caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, often presents with urinary discomfort, abnormal discharge, or infertility. Untreated infections may lead to pelvic inflammatory disease or chronic complications. Testing is usually by urine analysis or PCR on secretions.
● Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
Transmitted via blood, semen, vaginal secretions, and breast milk. Without effective treatment, it can cause immune system failure. Testing includes rapid blood tests, ELISA antibody assays, and viral load measurement.
● Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-2)
Causes genital herpes, transmitted mainly through sexual contact. Diagnosis involves testing lesion secretions or blood antibody tests.
● Trichomoniasis
Caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis, primarily infects the female vagina and male urethra or prostate. Diagnosis involves microscopic examination of secretions or antigen tests.
● Hepatitis B Virus (HBV)
Causes acute or chronic liver inflammation, transmitted through blood, sexual contact, and mother-to-child. Tests include HBsAg (surface antigen), HBsAb (antibody), and HBV DNA testing.
● Pubic Lice (Pthirus pubis)
Small parasites infesting pubic hair and nearby skin, causing itching. Diagnosis is by visual inspection and laboratory tests.
