What are STD’s?

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are transmitted exclusively through sexual contact involving the genitals, the mouth (oral), or the rectum (anal). There are at least 20 different STDs that are caused by viruses, bacteria, or protozoa. Some of the most common are:

• Chlamydia
• Genital herpes
• Genital warts or human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Gonorrhea
• Hepatitis B
• Syphilis
• Trichomoniasis
• Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)

How do you treat an STD?

If your STD is bacterial, your practitioner can treat it with antibiotics. Like other bacterial infections, you can get a bacterial STD again, even if you were already treated for and cured of it in the past. A viral STD, including genital herpes, genital warts, and HIV, usually cannot be cured. However, your practitioner can provide medication that can alleviate the symptoms.

If left untreated, STDs can cause a severe infection of the uterus and reproductive organs called Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). PID can cause scar tissue to form and block the fallopian tubes, leading to infertility, chronic pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy and more. Certain high-risk types of HPV can cause cervical cancer in women.

STDs in pregnant women may cause miscarriages, low birth weight, premature delivery, or infections for the baby. It is essential to seek treatment if you think you may have an STD or have been exposed to an STD since early treatment can prevent complications. Also, you can transmit an STD to others.

How do I know if I have an STD?

Many common STDs have no symptoms. It is, therefore, necessary to receive the proper tests when you go for your annual gynecological checkup. A simple urine test will confirm the existence of an STD.

However, if you have specific symptoms, you should come in for testing right away such as lesions, scabs, or warts on the genitals; pain, itching, or sores on the vagina or rectum; or painful urination accompanied by an abnormal discharge.

If you have any of these symptoms or have had sexual contact with a partner who has an STD, you should come in for testing and treatment right away. STDs are painful and can cause serious health complications.

The professionals at Susquehanna OB/GYN Nurse and Midwifery provide the best possible STD testing and care, so you and your partner(s) stay healthy. Call our Bel Air or Havre de Grace office or schedule an appointment online today if you suspect that you have an STD.