What Is a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI)?
STIs are infections primarily transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral intercourse. They can be caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi. They may cause a range of symptoms, from mild to severe, or may be asymptomatic. STIs can lead to significant health complications if not diagnosed and treated promptly.
Common examples include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, herpes simplex virus (HSV), human papillomavirus (HPV), and trichomoniasis.
Types of Pathogens
- Bacterial: Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis.
- Viral: HIV, HSV, HPV, and hepatitis B and C.
- Parasitic: Trichomoniasis.
- Fungal: Rare, but can include candidiasis under certain conditions.
Transmission
STIs are primarily spread through vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Some can also be transmitted through blood exposure, sharing needles, or from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding.
Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Symptoms can include genital sores, unusual discharge, itching, and pain during urination or intercourse, but many STIs have no symptoms. Diagnosis may involve medical history, examination, blood tests, urine tests, swabs, or cultures. Treatment varies by infection and can include antibiotics, antivirals, or other specific treatments.