What are STIs?

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are infections that are transferred from one infected person to another through means of sexual intercourse, including anal, vaginal or oral sex. Even a single act of sexual intercourse with a person infected with an STI is sufficient to pass on the infection. What makes awareness about STIs especially important is the fact that no one is immune to them. People from around the world, belonging to different backgrounds and age groups can fall victim to these infections.

Why STI and not STD?

Most people are familiar with the term “STD” or Sexually Transmitted Disease.  Over the years, the term STD has been replaced by STI. That’s because the concept of STD implies a ‘disease’ which in general terms is a medical problem where there are some obvious symptoms and visible signs. But in reality there are many patients suffering from STDs who have no outwardly symptoms or signs of these diseases. They often overlook the subtler signs and hence end up confused. Keeping this scenario in mind, experts have been moving away from using “STD” and have instead begun using “STI”. The added advantage of using is STI is that it includes sexually transmitted viruses and bacteria as creators of ‘infection’, which further may or may not convert into ‘disease’.

Human papillomavirus (HPV),gonorrhoea , Chlamydia, Syphilis, Genital warts, HIV/AIDS, and Herpes are a few examples of STI/STDs.

Who’s at risk for an STI?

Anyone and everyone who has indulged in unsafe sexual intercourse is susceptible to STIs. Unsafe sexual behaviour, wherein a person has sex with multiple partners without protection –  i.e. condoms – is dangerous. Unsafe sexual behaviour also includes having sexual contact with an already infected partner without the use of condoms.

Symptoms of STIs

STIs can develop into serious illnesses and require timely treatment. They can be identified through various signs and symptoms.

Men with STIs generally complain of:

• Genital ulcers which look like pimples on the penis shaft or surrounding areas
• Pain or burning sensation while passing urine
• A white thick fluid discharge from the urethra
• Swelling in the groin area
• Blisters on and around genitals
• Redness or swelling near the penis
• Night sweats and loose stools

Women with STIs have common complaints of:

• Vaginal discharge which is thick and foul in smell
• Pain in lower abdomen area
• Ulcers, blisters and wounds around the genital area
• Severe itching around vaginal area
• Skin rash
• Fever, aches and weight loss
• Painful sex

Both men and women may carry one or multiple symptoms, however many people suffering from STI/STDs may not show symptoms. As a result it becomes immensely important to identify them so that they may be caught at stage which is still treatable. Furthermore, treatment of STD/STIs is important as it gives symptomatic relief, prevents transmission of infection and avoids complications.

Caution

One of the biggest downsides of STIs is that a person may be carrying the virus or bacteria without even realising it. Which is why it is highly recommended that, whether or not you show any symptoms, you must practice safe sex.  Use a condom with every act of vaginal, anal, and oral sex to prevent transmission of the infection.

Get tested regularly – every 3-6 months – if you are sexually active.  If you think you may have contracted an STI, see a doctor immediately.  It is also recommended that any person with an STI/STD should go in for an HIV Elisa (a test for HIV) and VDRL (screening  test for detecting syphilis). If you test positive for an STI, tell your partner(s) so s/he can also get tested immediately.