Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) – Know it! Get tested! It’s treatable!

What is a sexually transmitted disease or STD?

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) or Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are infections caused by viruses, bacteria, and parasites. These pathogens can be transmitted from person to person through blood, fluids, semen, genitalia, and other bodily fluids, often through sexual contact. The pathogens that cause sexually transmitted diseases can be categorized into three groups as follows:

Groups of bacteria such as

-The bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis and Ureaplasma urealyticum that cause non-gonococcal urethritis are often transmitted through sexual contact with an infected person without using a condom during intercourse, whether vaginal, anal, or oral. This includes sexual relations between men or between women, which can also lead to non-gonococcal urethritis. Additionally, it can be transmitted from mother to child during a normal vaginal delivery.

– The bacterium Haemophilus Ducreyi causes chancroid, leading to necrotic tissue in the genital area.

– The Treponema Pallidum bacterium causes syphilis, which is transmitted through direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person. This includes unprotected sexual intercourse, oral sex, kissing that involves saliva, contact with sores or mucous membranes of an infected individual, or transmission from mother to child during pregnancy or childbirth.

Virus groups such as

– The Herpes Simplex virus causes herpes disease and can be found in various locations, such as on the lips or in the genital area. It is transmitted through direct contact with an infected person, allowing the virus to enter the skin.

Fungi and parasites such as

– The pathogen Meyerozyma guilliermondii and the group of Candida spp. that cause vaginal fungal infections

– The Trichomonas vaginalis parasite that causes vaginitis, a common symptom of sexually transmitted infections.

– There is abnormal discharge

– Vaginal discharge with odor, itching, or irritation

– There are bumps, rashes, or sores in the genital area

– Painful urination

Methods for Testing Sexually Transmitted Infections

– DNA testing by Microarray (PCR Hybridization)

– Endoscopy by a Specialist

– Cultivation of microorganisms

– Blood test for immunity

Methods of Preventing Sexually Transmitted Infections

– The use of condoms

– You shouldn't change partners often

– Do not have sexual relations with individuals at risk of disease

– Maintain cleanliness of the body and genitals

– Regular health check-ups

– Study of sexually transmitted diseases

– Consult a doctor when experiencing unusual symptoms or suspecting a contagious disease

Source:

– WHO. (5 March 2024). Sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/sexually-transmitted-infections-(stis) – KhongkrirkKiat N, Kittiyaowamarn R, Daengsaard E. Sexually transmitted diseases 2015.

Bangkok: Aksorn Graphic and Design; 2015.

– อังคณา เจริญวัฒนาโชคชัย, บรรณาธิการ. คู่มือปฏิบัติงานดูแลรักษา. โรคติดต่อทางเพศสัมพันธ์ พ.ศ. 2553.

นครปฐม: โรงพิมพ์สํานักงานพระพุทธศาสนา.

by Pitchayani Kongcharoen