Sexually transmitted diseases
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), also known as Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), are infections that are commonly spread by sexual activity, especially vaginal intercourse, anal sex and oral sex.
Pronunciation
Sexually Transmitted Diseases: /ˈsɛkʃuːəli trænsmɪtɪd dɪˈziːz/
Etymology
The term "Sexually Transmitted Disease" comes from the words "sexual", referring to the biological and physiological characteristics that define men and women, "transmitted", meaning passed from one person to another, and "disease", a particular abnormal condition that negatively affects the structure or function of all or part of an organism.
Types of STDs
There are more than 20 types of STDs, including:
- Chlamydia: A common sexually transmitted infection that may not cause symptoms.
- Gonorrhea: A sexually transmitted bacterial infection that, if untreated, may cause infertility.
- Syphilis: A bacterial infection usually spread by sexual contact that starts as a painless sore.
- HIV/AIDS: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) cause serious damage to the immune system.
- Herpes: An infection caused by HSV (herpes simplex virus) that leads to painful sores.
Prevention
Prevention methods include using condoms, being tested for STDs regularly, and receiving vaccinations for certain types of STDs such as HPV and Hepatitis B.
Treatment
Treatment varies depending on the type of STD. Some can be cured with antibiotics, while others require management of symptoms.
See Also
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