SustainablyAlpha January Edition

treatment options, and even
how to talk to your partner
about them.
STIs are primarily transmitted
through sexual contact,
including vaginal, anal, and
oral sex. However, some STIs
can also be spread through
other means, such as sharing
needles with an infected
person or during childbirth
from mother to baby. It is
important to note that even if
you engage in safe sex
practices, there is still a risk
of contracting an STI, as
certain infections can be
transmitted through skin-toskin
contact in the genital
area.
There are several types of
STIs that one should be
aware of. Some of the most
common ones include:
Chlamydia: This bacterial
infection can be easily
transmitted through
vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
It often exhibits no
symptoms, but may lead
to severe complications if
left untreated, such as
pelvic inflammatory
disease (PID) in women.
Gonorrhoea: Another
bacterial infection,
gonorrhoea can affect
both men and women. It
can cause symptoms like
painful urination,
abnormal discharge, and
in some cases, infertility.
Human papillomavirus
(HPV): HPV is a viral
infection that can lead to
genital warts or, in some
cases, various types of
cancer, including cervical,
anal, and throat
cancer.
Herpes: Caused by
the herpes simplex
virus (HSV), herpes is
a common STI that
results in painful
outbreaks of blisters
on the genitals or
mouth. It is highly
contagious and can be
transmitted even
when no visible
symptoms are
present.
HIV/AIDS: Human
immunodeficiency
virus (HIV) weakens
the immune system
and can progress to
acquired
immunodeficiency
syndrome (AIDS). It is
primarily transmitted
through unprotected
sexual intercourse or
sharing needles with
an infected person.
Symptoms
and
complications of STIs:The
symptoms of STIs can
vary depending on the
type of infection. While
some STIs may not exhibit
any noticeable signs,
others can cause
discomfort and serious
complications. Common
symptoms include:
Unusual discharge
from the genitals
Pain or burning
sensation during
urination
Itching, redness, or
swelling in the genital
area
Pain during sexual
intercourse
Sores, blisters, or
warts on the genitals
or mouth
If left untreated, STIs can
lead to severe
complications, such as
infertility, chronic pelvic
pain, organ damage, and
an increased risk of
developing other
infections or certain types
of cancer. It is crucial to
seek medical attention
and get tested if you
experience any symptoms
or suspect you may have
been exposed to an STI.
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