Caring & Treating STDs Since 2005
No one really talks about it, but Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are more common than we think. This is especially so among young people, or rather, anyone who is sexually active.
Put simply, STIs refers to any infection that is passed from one person to another through sexual intercourse (this also includes oral and anal sex); sometimes through direct contact with the genitals.
STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases) are bacteria, viruses and parasites that are transmitted from one person to another primarily during sexual intercourse. STDs can infect the penis, the vagina, the anus, the throat and even the eyes. Certain STDs can also cause symptoms in places other than the sexual organs. For example, Syphilis can result in a rash that covers the whole body including the palms and the soles. In fact, more worryingly, many STDs can infect a person and stay completely invisible without causing any symptoms (so-called asymptomatic infections). These cases are particularly challenging as patients do not even know that they have infected, and therefore do not get tested and treated. They then not only may potentially suffer serious long term complications caused by the infection, but they can also unknowingly pass the infection onto others.
Regular screening for STDs is therefore recommended for all sexually active adults regardless of whether or not they have symptoms. Aside from regular screening as part of a comprehensive health maintenance schedule, STD screening is also frequently done by people starting a new sexual relationship, getting married or entering into a long term monogamous relationship. The requirements for STD screening depend on the patient’s sexual practices. A blood test is usually required. And, depending on the individual’s sexual practices, a urine sample, vaginal swab, throat swab or an anal swab may also be required.
Knowing your STD status is very important. Many STDs can be cured with the correct antibiotics. Others can be managed with medication. Knowing your status also allows you to take steps to protect your partner while the infection is being treated. Leaving an infection untreated can lead to serious complications like infertility. What is worse is trying to self treat with home remedies like apple cider vinegar or over the counter antibiotics. I often see patients who suffer serious complications like skin burns from home remedies. Taking antibiotics without proper medical advice can also lead to the bacteria becoming resistant to the medicines thereby requiring stronger and more toxic medicines to treat. Or in rare but serious cases, the bacteria becomes completely resistant and effectively incurable.
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