Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections that are spread from one person to another, usually during vaginal, anal, and oral sex. They’re really common, and lots of people who have them don’t have any symptoms. Without treatment, STDs can lead to serious health problems. But the good news is that getting tested is no big deal, and most STDs are easy to treat².
Source: Conversation with Bing, 27/05/2023
(1) What Are STDs? | Sexually Transmitted Diseases Information. https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/stds-hiv-safer-sex.
(2) Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) – Symptoms and causes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sexually-transmitted-diseases-stds/symptoms-causes/syc-20351240.
(3) CDC – STD Diseases & Related Conditions. https://www.cdc.gov/std/general/default.htm.
(4) Sexually transmitted disease (STD) symptoms – Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sexually-transmitted-diseases-stds/in-depth/std-symptoms/art-20047081.
Here are some common STDs:
– Chlamydia
– Gonorrhea
– Hepatitis
– HIV
– Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
– Syphilis
– Trichomoniasis¹
I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any other questions.
Source: Conversation with Bing, 27/05/2023
(1) List of all STDs and their Symptoms – STDs Information. https://www.std-gov.org/stds/std_list.htm.
(2) The Most Common STD: In the U.S. and Around the World – Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/sexually-transmitted-diseases/most-common-std.
(3) The Most Common Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) – Verywell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-most-common-stds-sexually-transmitted-diseases-3133040.
(4) Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) – Symptoms and causes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sexually-transmitted-diseases-stds/symptoms-causes/syc-20351240.
(5) Sexually transmitted disease (STD) symptoms – Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sexually-transmitted-diseases-stds/in-depth/std-symptoms/art-20047081.
Here are some common symptoms of STDs:
– General symptoms such as fever, weakness, body and muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes
– Pain experienced during sexual intercourse or while urinating
– Discharge from the penis or vagina
– Itching around the genitalia
– Stabbing or burning nature or dull pain in the pelvic (lower abdominal) area¹
I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any other questions.
Source: Conversation with Bing, 27/05/2023
(1) STDs: 11 Common Symptoms & What to Know – MedicineNet. https://www.medicinenet.com/stds_common_symptoms/article.htm.
(2) Sexually Transmitted Diseases: Types, Symptoms, Treatment – Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/sexually-transmitted-diseases.
(3) Sexually transmitted disease (STD) symptoms – Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sexually-transmitted-diseases-stds/in-depth/std-symptoms/art-20047081.
(4) Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) – Symptoms and causes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sexually-transmitted-diseases-stds/symptoms-causes/syc-20351240.
(5) The Most Common Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) – Verywell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-most-common-stds-sexually-transmitted-diseases-3133040.
The treatment for each STD varies depending on the type of infection. Some STDs can be cured with antibiotics or antiviral medications, while others can only be managed with medication to reduce symptoms. It’s important to see a healthcare provider if you think you may have an STD so that you can get tested and receive appropriate treatment. Here are some common treatments for some of the most common STDs:
– Chlamydia: Antibiotics
– Gonorrhea: Antibiotics
– Hepatitis B: Antiviral medications
– HIV: Antiretroviral therapy (ART)
– Human Papillomavirus (HPV): No cure, but vaccines are available to prevent certain strains of HPV
– Syphilis: Antibiotics
I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any other questions.
Here are some ways to protect yourself from STDs:
– Abstinence (not having sex)
– Using condoms or dental dams during sex
– Getting vaccinated against certain types of HPV and hepatitis B
– Getting tested regularly for STDs if you are sexually active
– Limiting your number of sexual partners
I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any other questions.
You can get tested for STDs at your healthcare provider’s office, a clinic, or a health department. Some tests require a blood sample, while others require a urine or swab sample. It’s important to get tested regularly if you are sexually active, even if you don’t have any symptoms. Here are some things to keep in mind when getting tested:
– Some tests require more than one sample
– Some tests take longer than others to get results
– You may need to follow up with your healthcare provider after getting tested
I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any other questions.