The most common STIS and their treatments — Part II
SEPTEMBER IS Sexual Health Awareness Month. Safe sex is an essential part of sexual health. If you are sexually active, you should understand the risks of sexually transmitted infections (STIS) and the importance of safe sex. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than one million STIS are acquired every day worldwide. Since all sexually active persons are at risk of contracting an STI, it’s important to understand what the symptoms look like and how they can be treated. Particularly for women, it’s important to understand the risks of having an STI and giving birth. Keep reading to learn more about the most common STIS and their treatments.
HUMAN PAPILLOMAVIRUS
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common STI. This infection tends to be most common for women in their late teens and early 20s. If you do contract HPV, you may be at an increased risk for genital warts and certain cancers if you leave the virus untreated.
You can get HPV from having vaginal, anal or oral sex with someone who is infected with the virus. It may also be passed on if the infected person has no symptoms, or is unaware of the virus.
In many cases, HPV may go away on its own without causing any additional health issues. There is an HPV vaccine available to protect against the most common types of HPV infections, which may cause cervical cancer. It is recommended for girls nine to 13, but you may take it any time. Three doses are given within six months. Talk to your gynaecologist to get more information about receiving this vaccine. In addition, getting your frequent Pap smears serve as HPV screenings, and you must keep on top of this to protect yourself.
TRICHOMONIASIS
Trichomoniasis is the most common curable STI; however, approximately 70 per cent of infected people do not have any symptoms. This makes it hard to diagnose without doing a test. You can still pass the virus on to your sexual partner(s), even without symptoms of the virus. The virus is more common in women than men. Those with symptoms may notice itching, redness, burning when urinating and/or a change in scent and consistency of vaginal discharge. Pregnant women with trichomoniasis are more likely to have their babies preterm or have a low birth weight.
Trichomoniasis can be treated with medication. These prescribed pills are to be taken by mouth and are safe for pregnant women. After you’ve completed your treatment, wait about a week before you have sex again. And if symptoms persist, do a test to confirm that the infection is gone.
HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is one of the most serious, common STIS. It is a lifelong illness that may be life-threatening if not treated quickly and effectively. Some symptoms you can look out for include: fever, muscle aches, chills, rash, night sweats, swollen lymph nodes, mouth ulcers and/or fatigue. Of course, other illnesses have these similar symptoms; therefore, the only way to know for sure if you have HIV is to get tested. Contact your healthcare provider now if you’ve been exposed to HIV.
If HIV is not treated, it can become acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). There is no effective cure for HIV, but there are treatment methods, and people can live long, healthy lives with effective medical treatment. HIV treatment involves taking medicine that reduces the amount of HIV in your body; the treatment is known as antiretroviral therapy. This slows down the virus from developing into AIDS. This medication can get the virus under control in around six months. If taken correctly, your treatment may also help prevent the virus’ transmission to others.
CONCLUSION
The only way to completely avoid contracting an STI is to abstain from having sex. Otherwise, practising safe sex with a condom and limiting the number of sexual partners may help decrease your risks.
Fortunately, most STIS today can be treated. Ensure that you and your sexual partner(s) get tested regularly, even if you are asymptomatic. Confirmation is the best route to protect yourself and those you have intercourse with.
Dr Kevin Henry has been practising medicine for over 12 years, specialising in obstetrics and gynaecology. His special interests include fertility and reproductive health. Find Dr Henry online at drkevinhenry.com and on Instagram @ drkevinhenry and Facebook: Kevin Henry.