Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) or Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) is the infection or disease transmitted by sexual activity. Every year several people get infected with STIs or STDs and transfer them to other people due to lack of knowledge.
So, if you are one of those people who don’t have enough knowledge of STIs and STI treatment clinics, here is a complete guide for you.
How IS STI Transmitted?
As the name suggests, STIs are sexually transmitted infections or diseases. Generally, it is transmitted through sexual activity like sex, oral sex, anal sex, or through hands as well. However, mothers can also transmit STI to their babies while giving birth or breastfeeding.
Some STIs may spread use of used needles, razors, blades, or blood transfusion.
So, if you are diagnosed with any type of STI, you avoid these activities until you get treatment from a STI treatment clinic
What Are The Types Of STIs?
There are more than 20 types of STIs. However, some infections are more common. Here is a list of the most common STIs for you:
Chlamydia
Genital Warts
Gonorrhea
Syphilis
Trichomoniasis
Hepatitis B
AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome)
Genital Herpes
What Are The Symptoms Of STI?
STIs can go a long time without being detected because there can be no symptoms at all. Also, men and women experience different symptoms.
- STI symptoms in men
Sores, bumps, or blisters on the penis or around the genital area.
Burning or a sharp pain while passing urine or bowel movement.
A discharge from the penis.
Irritation around or on the penis.
Pain or discomfort around the pelvis area.
Frequent trips to the toilet.
- STI Symptoms in women
Irritation or burning around or in the vagina.
A discharge or odour from the vagina.
Bumps, blisters, or sores in the vagina or around the genital area.
Pain deep inside the vagina while having sex.
Abnormal bleeding from the vagina.
Pain or discomfort around the pelvis area.
Frequent trips to the toilet.
How STI Is Diagnosed?
If you have STI symptoms, your doctor might prescribe you tests to diagnose STI. However, if you don’t have any symptoms and the doctor feels the need, he may also ask you to take the tests (generally pregnant women are asked to take STI tests).
So, what is the process of STI diagnosis?
Your doctor will prescribe a blood or urine test to diagnose the STI. They may also take a swab of your genitals if you have sores, bumps, or blisters.
How Is STI Treated?
Are you diagnosed with STI?
Don’t worry STI is common and can be treated with antibiotics and topical creams. However, some STIs are not curable but their symptoms can be managed through medication.
CURABLE STIs INCLUDE:
Chlamydia
Gonorrhea
Trichomoniasis
Syphilis
Crabs
NOT CURABLE BUT TREATABLE STIs INCLUDE:
Genital warts
Hepatitis A, B, and C
HIV and AIDS
Herpes Simplex Virus
Looking for genital warts treatment Singapore?
Consult highly qualified and experienced family doctors at Little Cross Family Clinic Pte Ltd.
Are There Any Health Risks Attached With STI?
Most STIs do not carry health risks. However, HIV, AIDS, and hepatitis carry serious health risks and sometimes result fatally as well. These STIs can be transmitted to newborn babies as well at the time of delivery. That is why; all pregnant women are tested for HIV, AIDS, and Hepatitis at the start of pregnancy.
How STI Can Be Prevented?
Vaccination is the one that can protect you from hepatitis A, hepatitis b, and papillomavirus (HPV). HPV vaccines should be given to males and females before the start of sexual activity. The recommended age of HPV vaccines is 11 and 12. However, if not vaccinated at this age, HPV vaccines can be taken until the age of 26 years.
Hepatitis A vaccines are given to children aged 1-year-old and hepatitis C vaccines are given to children at birth.
Other than vaccines, certain practices can protect you from STIs:
Avoid having sex with multiple partners.
Have only one uninfected sex partner.
Get STI tested before sexual activity with a new partner.
Use a new latex condom for each sexual activity.
We hope our blog will help you gain valuable knowledge regarding STIs. If you or your partner has an STI or you want to get tested for it, Little Cross Family Clinic is here to here to help. Whether you need genital warts treatment Singapore or you want to get tested, our team of qualified and experienced doctors is here to help you.
Feel free to walk into our clinic anytime. We do not cater to online or on-call appointments to provide equal services to elderly and non-technical patients. You can walk in to get in the queue and come back later when your turn is near.