In this article we will discuss about the symptoms and the need for early diagnosis of a few common sexually transmitted diseases.
The sexually transmitted diseases are a group of communicable diseases that are transmitted predominantly by sexual contact. They are caused by a wide variety of pathogens and include bacteria, viruses, protozoal and fungal agents and ectoparasites.
Adolescents and young adults (15-24) are in age groups which are at the greatest risk for acquiring STD. STDs can have severe consequences, especially in women. Some STDs can cause PID, which can lead to infertility, while others may be fatal.
Common Symptoms of STDs:
The common symptoms of STDs are described below:
a. Itching around the vagina and/or discharge from the vagina in women
b. Discharge from the penis in men
c. Pain during sex or urination
d. Pain in the pelvic area
e. Sore throats
f. Pain in or around the anus
g. Chancre sores or painless red sores on the genital area, anus, tongue and/or throat
h. A scaly rash on the palms of the hands and the soles of feet
i. Dark urine, loose, light-coloured stools, and yellow eyes and skin
j. Small blisters that turn into scabs in the genital area
k. Swollen glands, fever and body aches
l. Unusual infections, unexplained fatigue, night sweats and weight loss
m. Soft, flesh-coloured warts around the genital area.
Prevention of STD:
The best ways to avoid being infected with STD are as follows:
a. Contraceptives:
Mechanical barriers such as condoms and diaphragms are recommended for prevention of STD. These barrier methods when used with spermicides will minimise the risk of acquiring STD infections.
b. Personal Hygiene:
The exposed parts of the body should be washed with soap and water.
c. Abstinence:
Avoidance of the act of sex is known as abstinence. The act of sex should be avoided until the individual is fully treated and free of STD.
d. Vaccines:
The development of a vaccine for hepatitis B has raised hope that vaccines will be found for other STDs
e. Health Education:
Health education is an integral part of STD control programmes. The aim of the programmes is to help individuals alter their behaviour in an effort to avoid STD, i.e. to minimise infection and transmission.
f. Social Welfare Measures:
STD are social problems with medical aspects. Therefore, social therapy should be done to prevent or control STD. The various social measures include rehabilitation of prostitutes, marriage counselling, prohibition of the sale of sexually stimulating literature, etc.