8 Common STDs

1. Chlamydia – This commonly transmitted disease is caused by a bacterial strain known as ‘chlamydia trachomatis’. Frequently observed symptoms include a burning sensation while urinating and the abnormal discharge from the genitalia. This STD can affect both men and women, and a lack of treatment can result in infertility, nausea, fever, abdominal pains and pains during future sexual intercourse. Chlamydia can be treated through the use of antibiotics.

2. AIDS/HIV – AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is one of the most fatally dangerous STD that exists in our modern world. The virus that attacks the immune system can exist within all of the bodily fluids, including sperm and vaginal discharge. There is currently no known cure for AIDS. On the other hand, there is a long-term treatment plan that is available for those suffering from HIV. HIV usually occurs within an individual before AIDS develops. Although AIDS is so life threatening, it can be prevented from spreading through the use of contraception such as condoms and the practice of regular medical checks.

3. Genital Warts – This ailment is caused by the HPV (Human Papilloma Virus). It forms warts on the skin of genitalia that can also spread to other nearby areas of the body such as the pelvis and inner thighs. This STD can result in muscle ache, pain while urinating and headaches. Due to the highly contagious nature of the virus, it may also cause glands to swell in the genital area and develop into cervical cancer in the future.

4. Hepatitis B –This STD can be transmitted through dirty or used needles, such as those used for drug injecting as well as sexual intercourse. This STD mainly affects the liver, causing inflammation and even the possibility of liver cancer. Hepatitis B does not affect the genitals directly as other STDs do.

5. Gonorrhea – Transmitted by the bacteria ‘neisseria gonorrhea’. 700,000 people in the US are infected with this STD every year. In men, the symptoms may include green or yellow discharge from the penis and pain when urinating. It can be cured by using antibiotics and symptoms don’t tend to be shown by females. When women do show symptoms, they are generally mild and may include, burning during urination, spotting between periods, and increased vaginal discharge.

6. Syphilis –This STD can be fatal if left untreated. It is caused by the spiral-shaped bacteria known as ‘treponema pallidum’. It can infect numerous organs throughout the body, including the heart and liver.

7. Crabs – Also known as lice, these parasites can burrow into the skin around the genitals. They can be contracted through sexual intercourse or close physical contact with another individual who has them.

8. Herpes – This STD is displayed through sores that can be present on the penis, vagina or around the anus. Although there is currently no cure, there are medicinal treatments that can be used to ease the symptoms. Herpes is often known as the ‘silent STD’ as it can be present within an individual, and they can be completely unaware of it.