In India, there are several definite programs solely dedicated to improving reproductive health. If you’ve studied Biology in your class 10th and 12th, you must be acquainted with the basics of sexually transmitted diseases, such as the sexually transmitted diseases definition, their types, and prevention. However, today, we will give you detailed knowledge of it.
What are Sexually Transmitted Diseases?
Sexually transmitted diseases, commonly known as STDs, are diseases transmitted through sexual intercourse. Apart from sexual activities, STD can also be transferred in several other ways, such as sharing infected needles, breastfeeding, etc. To prevent these diseases, the masses need to be aware of them; hence the government is taking many steps to spread awareness.
List of Sexually Transmitted Diseases and Symptoms
As discussed earlier, several sexually transmitted diseases spread during sexual intercourse. These are as follows:
- Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)
The common and most occurring sexually transmitted disease is AIDS. This disease occurs due to Human Immunodeficiency Virus ( HIV). In case the person is infected with AIDS, there are higher chances that he might be suffering from several other diseases as well. The most common symptoms of HIV are swollen lymph nodes, headache, fever, chills, rashes, and nausea. Although no cure has been found until today, it can be prevented by proper knowledge.
- Gonorrhoea
Gonorrhoea is caused due to a bacteria called Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The disease takes place in both males and females. The rectum, the urethra, and cervix are mostly affected during this condition. Like other STDs, Gonorrhea is also transmitted during sexual intercourse. Apart from this, oral and anal intercourse are two other ways in which it can be transferred. Symptoms of this condition are pus discharge from the penis or vagina, abdominal or pelvic pain, and burning during urination.
- Syphilis
Syphilis is another sexually transmitted disease due to the presence of the Treponema pallidum bacteria. This bacteria can travel your body through several wounds. The worst part is, it can be transferred to the fetus in the womb of the infected mother. The early symptoms of Syphilis are headache, fatigue, weight loss, fever, rashes, etc. Other than these, Syphilis shows advanced symptoms, such as loss of vision, stop of mental growth, heart disease, etc.
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is an infected viral disease. Some of the symptoms are warts on the throat, cavity, and outside genitals. If this condition is left untreated, it can lead to advanced health disorders such as oral cancer, rectal cancer, cervical cancer, etc.
- Chlamydia
Chlamydia is another common sexually transmitted disease caused due to Chlamydia trachomatis. Since this condition shows nearly no symptoms, it is difficult to analyze it in the first few stages. However, the later stage symptoms include yellow colour discharge from the vagina, penis, pain during urination, etc. These bacteria can also affect the baby in the womb if the mother is infected, leading to several major complications such as pneumonia, blindness, etc.
- Herpes
It is a common sexually transmitted Infection caused by Herpes Simplex Virus. Initial symptoms are pain, itching and small sores which later form ulcers and scabs. It is a chronic disease which can not be controlled. However medicines can be used to handle outbreaks.
- Trichomoniasis
It is another common STD caused by a protozoan parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. Symptoms include foul smelling vaginal discharge, genital itching and painful urination in women. It may also result in premature delivery in pregnant women.
Few Other Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Apart from earlier mentioned sexually transmitted diseases, several other diseases are caused due to exchange of fluid. These include Pubic lice, Chancroid, Scabies,Granuloma inguinale, and Molluscum contagiosum.
Strategies for Prevention
Even after years of advancements and the establishment of the latest technologies, STDs are still prevailing in our society. At the same time, some can be treated, others still need research for a cure. Today, the government has taken essential steps by promoting safe sexual habits through radios, tv shows, and so on, which helps spread awareness among people. All these efforts of governmental and non-governmental organizations aim to achieve a healthy reproductive society.
In this journey towards building a reproductively healthy society, introducing sex education in school plays a significant role as adolescents are now aware of unsafe sex. Hence, it can be said; prevention is better than cure. Below, we have mentioned a few steps to prevent getting sexually transmitted diseases.
- Do not practice unprotected intercourse.
- Proper use of contraceptive devices such as condoms is essential.
- Avoid sexual intercourse with several partners as it increases the chances of getting it.
- Get in touch with an expert for the diagnosis and treatment of STDs.
Conclusion
Today, people have become more concerned about their partner’s reproductive health as it is a major aspect of one’s total well-being. In India, the government has successfully introduced several awareness programs developed to spread awareness among the masses about what sexually transmitted diseases are, the classification of sexually transmitted diseases, and most importantly, mode of transportation and their prevention. Even after such developments in the medical field, healthcare professionals failed to find curable methods. Hence, prevention is the only way.
Now when you have studied the definition of sexually transmitted diseases and their prevention, we are assuming you have got a deeper understanding of it.