Information on recognizing, preventing, and protecting against sexually transmitted infections

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What are sexually transmitted infections?

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections most commonly transmitted through unprotected sexual contact (vaginal, anal, or oral). They can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms.

Some STIs cause clear symptoms, while others may remain unnoticed for a long time. A person who has no symptoms can still transmit the infection to a sexual partner.

Untreated STIs can lead to serious health consequences, including inflammation of the reproductive organs, fertility problems, pregnancy complications, and an increased risk of certain types of cancer.

Timely testing, appropriate treatment, and preventive measures are the best ways to protect yourself.

 

HPV (Human Papillomavirus)

What is HPV?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. There are more than 100 different types of HPV. Some cause genital warts, while certain high-risk types can cause cellular changes that, if not monitored and treated, may lead to cancer.

HPV is most commonly associated with cervical cancer, but it can also be associated with other cancers, including cancers of the anus, penis, and mouth and throat.

How is it transmitted?

HPV is most commonly transmitted through:

sexual contact with an infected person;

skin-to-skin contact in the genital area;

less commonly, through other intimate contact.

The infection can also be transmitted when the infected person has no visible symptoms.

Symptoms

Most often, there are no symptoms. Some people may develop:

genital warts;

changes detected during a gynecological examination or Pap test.

Prevention

HPV vaccination;

regular gynecological examinations and cervical cancer screening;

condom use (reduces the risk but does not provide complete protection);

awareness and responsible sexual behavior.

 

CHLAMYDIA

What is chlamydia?

Chlamydia is a bacterial sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It is one of the most common bacterial STIs, particularly among young people.

It is often referred to as a “silent infection” because many infected people have no symptoms.

How is it transmitted?

It is transmitted through:

unprotected sexual intercourse;

contact with infected genital secretions;

transmission from mother to newborn during childbirth.

Symptoms

In women, it may cause:

increased vaginal discharge;

pain when urinating;

lower abdominal pain;

bleeding between menstrual periods.

In men, it may cause:

discharge from the penis;

burning when urinating;

pain or swelling in the testicular area.

Complications

Untreated infection can lead to:

pelvic inflammatory disease;

infertility;

an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy.

Prevention

condom use;

testing for people at risk;

timely treatment;

treatment of sexual partners to prevent reinfection.

GONORRHEA

What is gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea is a bacterial infection caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It can affect the genitals, rectum, and throat.

In recent years, increasing antibiotic resistance has become a concern, making it particularly important that treatment be provided according to a doctor's recommendation.

How is it transmitted?

through unprotected sexual contact;

through contact with infected secretions;

from mother to child during childbirth.

Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

pus-like or yellowish discharge;

burning when urinating;

lower abdominal pain;

pain or inflammation in the testicular area.

In many people, the infection may cause no symptoms.

Complications

Without treatment, gonorrhea can cause:

inflammation of the reproductive organs;

fertility problems;

spread of the infection to other parts of the body.

Prevention

condom use;

testing;

timely treatment;

avoiding self-medication with antibiotics.

SYPHILIS

What is syphilis?

Syphilis is a bacterial sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. The disease can develop through several stages and, if not detected and treated in time, can cause serious health consequences.

Syphilis can be successfully treated with appropriate antibiotic therapy, particularly when detected in its early stages.

How is it transmitted?

Syphilis is most commonly transmitted through:

unprotected sexual contact;

direct contact with skin or mucosal lesions of an infected person;

transmission from mother to child during pregnancy (congenital syphilis).

Symptoms

Symptoms depend on the stage of the disease.

Primary stage:

appearance of a painless sore or lesion at the site where the infection entered the body;

swollen lymph nodes.

Secondary stage:

skin rash, often including the palms of the hands and soles of the feet;

fatigue;

fever;

swollen lymph nodes.

 

Later stages:

If left untreated, the infection can damage the nervous system, heart, and other organs.

 

Prevention

condom use during sexual intercourse;

regular testing for people at increased risk;

early detection and treatment;

testing during pregnancy according to the recommendations of healthcare professionals;

treatment of sexual partners when necessary.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)

What is HIV?

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system, the body's natural defense against infections.

Without treatment, HIV can gradually weaken the immune system and lead to the development of AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). Today, thanks to modern antiretroviral therapy, people living with HIV can have long and healthy lives.

Early detection and initiation of treatment are very important.

 

How is it transmitted?

HIV can be transmitted through:

unprotected sexual contact with an infected person;

contact with infected blood;

sharing needles or other equipment among people who inject drugs;

transmission from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding if appropriate preventive measures are not taken.

HIV is NOT transmitted through:

shaking hands, hugging, or everyday contact;

sharing eating utensils;

coughing or sneezing;

being in the same room with a person living with HIV.

Symptoms

During the early stage, flu-like symptoms may occur:

fever;

fatigue;

muscle aches;

swollen lymph nodes;

rash.

 

The infection may then remain without symptoms for a long time.

 

Prevention

condom use;

regular HIV testing;

use of sterile equipment during medical and other procedures;

use of screened blood for transfusions;

preventive and therapeutic measures according to healthcare professionals' recommendations.

GENITAL HERPES

What is genital herpes?

Genital herpes is a viral infection most commonly caused by herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), but it can also be caused by HSV-1.

The virus remains in the body and may become active again. Treatment can help reduce symptoms and shorten the duration of active episodes.

 

How is it transmitted?

It is transmitted through:

direct contact with the skin or mucous membranes of an infected person;

sexual contact, including when there are no visible lesions;

contact with active lesions caused by the virus.

Symptoms

Some people have no symptoms. Others may develop:

painful lesions or blisters in the genital area;

itching or burning;

pain when urinating;

discomfort in the genital area;

general weakness and fever during the first infection.

Prevention

condom use (reduces the risk);

avoiding sexual contact when active lesions are present;

informing your partner;

consulting a doctor for appropriate treatment.

HEPATITIS B

What is hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is a viral infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), which affects the liver.

The infection can be short-term (acute) or become chronic. Some people with chronic hepatitis B may develop serious liver disease.

How is it transmitted?

The virus is transmitted through:

sexual contact with an infected person;

contact with infected blood;

sharing needles or equipment that may be contaminated;

transmission from an infected mother to her newborn.

Symptoms

Many people have no symptoms. When symptoms occur, they may include:

fatigue;

loss of appetite;

nausea;

abdominal pain;

dark urine;

yellowing of the skin and eyes.

Complications

Chronic hepatitis B can lead to:

liver cirrhosis;

reduced liver function;

an increased risk of liver cancer.

Prevention

hepatitis B vaccination (the most effective preventive measure);

condom use;

use of sterile medical equipment;

avoiding sharing personal items that may be contaminated with blood, such as razors.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PREVENTING SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS

 

Sexual health is an important part of overall health. To reduce the risk of STIs, the following are recommended:

 

Use condoms during sexual intercourse – correct use significantly reduces the risk of most STIs.

Get tested regularly – especially if you have new or multiple sexual partners or suspect that you have been exposed.

See a doctor promptly if symptoms occur, such as:

unusual discharge;

burning when urinating;

pain in the genital area;

changes or lesions on the skin or mucous membranes.

Do not use antibiotics or other medications without a doctor's recommendation. Incorrect treatment can lead to complications and drug resistance.

Vaccination – effective vaccines are available against:

HPV;

hepatitis B.

Open communication with your partner and responsible sexual behavior.

Remember

STIs can happen to anyone. Early detection, appropriate treatment, and prevention are the best ways to protect your own health and the health of others.