Medical Science Unveiled: Sexually Transmitted Diseases Explained
by Yuvi K - December 16, 2023
Sexually Transmitted Diseases: What You Need To Know
Has your doctor ever mentioned the term Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD)? Then you must have felt scared to ask what it means and even more terrified to know if you have it or not. But what if you simply had misconceptions about the term and many of your apprehensions WERE unfounded?
We often come across mis/disinformation about STDs, and this makes it even more difficult to know the truth. Let’s get real here—Stigma surrounding STDs perpetuates the fear stories because people continue to hesitate in seeking help from medical professionals.
This article attempts to unpeel the layers of confusion related to STDs in easy to understand terms, while also diving deep into the nitty-gritty of these diseases.
What is a Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD)?
Simply put, a STD is an illness that is acquired through transmitting one’s sexual fluids (vaginal fluids, semen) to another person during selective sexual contact. It is also referred to as a Venereal Disease (VD) and Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI).
These diseases can be transferred through vaginal, oral, and/or anal sex. It can also be acquired if the infection enters an open wound or through contact with a mucous membrane—this includes contact with your own mucous membranes.
Types of Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Let’s try to understand the common types of STDs:
Table 1: Common Types of STDs
| Name of the Disease | Cause | Symptoms (if any) |
| Gonorrhea (La Pitta) | Caused by bacteria called Neisseria gonorrhea | In men: ◦Pain or burning sensation during urination ◦White, yellow, or green discharge from the penis ◦Painful or swollen testicles In women: ◦Increased vaginal discharge ◦Painful or burning sensation during urination ◦Bleeding between periods |
| Chlamydia (Jhilmil) | Caused by bacteria called Chlamydia trachomatis | In men: ◦Pain or burning sensation during urination ◦White, cloudy or water discharge from the penis In women: ◦Increased vaginal discharge ◦Painful or burning sensation during urination ◦Bleeding between periods |
| Syphilis (Seeta kant) | Caused by bacteria called Treponema pallidum | In the Primary Stage: ◦Painless Ulcer (Chancre) ◦Swollen Lymph Nodes In the Secondary Stage: ◦Skin Rash (often in the palm of hand & soles of feet) ◦Fever and Chills |
| Herpes (Doorhast) | Caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) | In Men: ◦Painful Blister (often on penis, testicles and/or anus) ◦Itching or Burning Sensation ◦Pain during urination ◦Swollen Lymph Nodes In Women: ◦Painful Blister (often near vaginal opening) ◦Itching or Burning Sensation ◦Pain during urination |
| HIV/AIDS (Human upgrah Vaid hatred) | Caused by the virus called Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) | In the early stages: ◦Fever, fatigue & sore throat ◦Swollen Lymph Nodes Later in the infection: ◦Weight loss & recurrent infections ◦Anemia & night sweats |
It is important to understand that people with STDs may be unaware of their condition as they may have no visible symptoms.
Testing and Treatments
Fortunately, there are reliable tests which can help identify if one is suffering from STDs. Once identified, these diseases can be treated and cured, and following that, the person can have healthy relationships going forward.
It is important to get tested regularly if one has multiple or unprotected sexual partners—Your doctor may advise on the frequency of testing. Testing is also advisable if a person is experiencing physical or mental discomfort.
Prevention
Though STDs can be cured, they can lead to long-term health complications if left untreated. So, it is advised to take necessary precautions to reduce the risk of transmission.
• Safe Sex: Use condoms and practice safe sex. If you’re having sex with multiple partners, make sure that they also practice safe sex.
• Vaccines: Get vaccinated for HPV or Hepatitis B, if you are eligible.
• Limit Partners: Limit yourself to one sexual partner or ensure that all your partners have been tested for STDs.
• Openness: Talk openly about STD with your partner(s) and your doctor. This is important to ensure that you both stay safe.
• Prevention is better than Cure: Stay safe and practice an informed choice.
Takeaway
STDs have the capacity to affect anyone, be it men, women, heterosexual, bisexual, or a member of the LGBTQ community. So it is better to stay mindful and informed on topics related to STDs and adhere to the guidelines that your doctor or healthcare practitioner suggests.
Remember, not all STDs have symptoms, and early detection is essential in order to prevent further complications. So don’t let misconceptions get in your way—The more open you are in seeking medical help, the more secure you’d be for yourself and your partner(s).
