Understanding STIs

Loice Vavi Health Talk

Definition

It is an infection transmitted through sexual contact, caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites.

Common types of STIs

Human Papiloma virus (HPV), 2. Genital herpes, 3. Chlamidia, 4. Gonorrhea, 5. HIV/AIDS, 6. Syphilis, 7. Pubic lice, 8. Genital warts, 9.Trichomoniasis, 10. Scabies,

Mode of spread of STIs

Through sexual activity including oral, vaginal and anal sex. 2. Skin to skin contact like HPV and herpes,

Mode of spread of STIs

Through sexual activity including oral, vaginal and anal sex, 2.Skin to skin contact like HPV and herpes.

SYMPTOMS OF STIs

NOTE: STIs may not have symptoms or may cause mild symptoms so it is possible to have an infection and not know it but you can still pass it on to others.

An unusual discharge from the vagina, penis, or anus, 2. Pain when peeing, 3. Lumps or skin growths around the genitals, 4. Abnormal vaginal odour, 5.Unusual vaginal bleeding, 6. Itchy genitals or anus, 7.Blisters and sores around genitals or anus, 8. Warts around genitals or anus, 9. Warts in mouth or throat, 10. Abdominal pain, 11. Fever,

Diagnosis of STIs

STIs may not have symptoms and diagnosis can be done through;

Physical examination, microscopic exam of a sore or fluid swabbed from the private parts and blood tests.

Treatment of STIs

Antibiotics can treat STIs caused by bacteria or parasites, 2. There is no cure for STIs caused by viruses eg HIV/AIDS but anti virals can be used to suppress the virus and prevent spread to others, 3.Partner notification and preventive treatment.

If tests show that you have an STI your sexual partners including your current partners and any other partners you have had over the last 3 months to 1 year need to be informed so that they can get tested. Partner notification can help limit the spread of STIs particularly Syphilis and HIV. The practice also steers those at risk towards right treatment and counselling.

How to prevent STIs

Abstinancy.
Vaccination for HPV and Hepatitis B.
Reduce number of sexual partners.
Mutual monogamy ( being in a long term sexual relationship with one uninfected partner).
Correct and consistent use of condoms.
Regular screening.
Complications of an untreated STI

Syphilis ; Dementia, blindness, heart, brain, eyes, kidney and bone damage.

HPV; Cervical and rectal cancer.

HEPATITIS B; Liver cancer and cirrhosis.

GENITAL HERPES; Meningitis and bladder problems.

GONORRHOEA; Infertility and pelvic inflammatory disease.

For questions and suggestions contact Loice Vavi, 0772224231