Sexually Transmitted Infections

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), or sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are generally acquired by sexual contact. STIs are caused by bacteria, viruses and parasites. Many of these infections can be transmitted through any type of sex. That includes intercourse, oral sex and other sexual acts where there is intimate contact and an exchange of bodily fluids.

The most common STIs include:

  • Chlamydia
  • Gonorrhea
  • Genital herpes, also called “herpes simplex virus” or “HSV”
  • Genital warts, also called “human papillomavirus” or “HPV” – Some types of HPV can cause cervical cancer in women and anal cancer in men
  • Hepatitis A, B, and C
  • Syphilis
  • Trichomoniasis
  • Human immunodeficiency virus, also called “HIV” – This is the virus that causes AIDS.

Symptoms of STIs

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have a range of signs and symptoms. That’s why they may go unnoticed until complications occur or a partner is diagnosed. Signs and symptoms that might indicate an STI include:

  • Sores or bumps on the genitals or in the oral or rectal area
  • Painful or burning urination
  • Discharge from the penis
  • Unusual or odd-smelling vaginal discharge
  • Unusual vaginal bleeding
  • Pain during sex
  • Sore, swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the groin but sometimes more widespread
  • Lower abdominal pain
  • Rash over the trunk, hands or feet

Signs and symptoms may appear a few days to years after exposure, depending on the organism.

Risk Factors:

  • Having unprotected sex
  • Having sexual contact with multiple partners
  • Anyone forced to have sexual intercourse or sexual activity
  • Abusing alcohol or using recreational drugs

“Dr. DeJesus has been my doctor for about 12 years now and he and the team at OIC have literally saved my life. They are an amazing group of people and Dr. DeJesus is probably the best specialist, in this field, in the world.”
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FAQs

How are sexually transmitted infections (STIs) spread?

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are typically spread through sexual contact. They can be passed in blood, semen or vaginal and other bodily fluids. They can also be spread from mother to infant during pregnancy or childbirth, through blood transfusions and shared needles. STIs can be spread even when someone isn’t experiencing the symptoms associated with an STI.

How are sexually transmitted infections (STIs) diagnosed?

If someone believes they have a sexually transmitted infection (STIs), it can be diagnosed through a blood test, urine sample or fluid sample.

What treatments are available for sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that are caused by bacteria are easier to treat than viral infections. Depending on the infection, STIs can be treated with antibiotics or antiviral drugs, creams. If tests show that you have an STI, your sex partners — including your current partners and any other partners you’ve had over the last three months to one year — need to be informed so that they can get tested and treated if infected.

What are ways to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?

  • Use condoms and dental dams consistently and correctly
  • Get vaccinated for viral STI’s preventable with a vaccine
  • Don’t drink alcohol excessively or use drugs
  • Communicate with your partner
  • Stay with 1 uninfected partner
  • Consider male circumcision
  • Consider PrEP (create link to PrEP section)

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