What are sexually transmitted infections?

They are infections that are spread by unprotected sexual contact (penis-vagina, anal or oral) with an infected person. They are caused by fungi, parasites, bacteria or viruses. They can also be contracted through skin contact with infected areas or ulcers of the sufferer. The most common are syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, genital herpes, hepatitis B and C, those caused by the AIDS virus (HIV) and the human papilloma virus.

Any sexually active person can get sexually transmitted infections. It affects men and women of any age and condition, but especially sexually active adolescents. Some behaviors increase the probability of contracting them, such as having several partners. Some infections can cause, in the long term, irreversible damage such as sterility, cancer in the sexual organs of men and women and, in some cases, even death.

What are the symptoms?

They are very variable. Often you do not have any initial symptoms of these infections and they may go undetected. When they do manifest, they usually do so in the genital area (penis, vulva, vagina and surrounding areas, including the anus), in both boys and girls. Any symptom that affects the genitals is suspicious. For example, an unusual sore, warts, hives or blisters, foul-smelling discharge, painful or burning sensation when urinating, intense itching, pain with sexual intercourse, a swollen gland in that area… And in girls, in addition, bleeding between menstrual cycles or pain in the pelvic area (in the lower part of the belly).

Always pay attention to these symptoms, because they can disappear on their own over time. But that does not indicate that the infection has been cured.

When should it be consulted?

When any of the symptoms mentioned or any other that gives rise to doubts appears. Also when an unprotected sexual relationship has been maintained, which suggests a possible contagion.

It is highly recommended for all people with sexual activity to have periodic check-ups with sexologist in Delhi to rule them out, even if they do not have symptoms. Especially teenagers and young people. And it is very important to remember this when you have a new sexual partner and even more so if you have multiple partners.

How are they diagnosed?

The only sure way to know if you have an infection of this type is to go to the sexologist doctor in Delhi to get the necessary tests. They are easy to do and absolutely confidential.

The tests are different for each type of infection. They generally consist of a physical examination and a culture of discharge from the vagina, penis, or anus. Sometimes they may include a urine and blood test.

How are they treated?

Early treatment of these infections prevents complications. Home treatments are not effective in curing these diseases and self-medicating only complicates things.

Treatments for most infections caused by bacteria and fungi are simple and effective, usually consisting of creams to apply to the genital area and medicines to take by mouth. Infections caused by viruses are more complex to treat and usually require longer follow-ups.

It is convenient that people who receive treatment notify their partner, so that they can consult the best sexologist in Delhi and have the necessary tests done.

How can they be prevented?

You have to know about their existence and how to contract them in order to prevent them. It is important to share the information as a family, to make sure that the youngest members of the house are well informed. That will allow you to clarify doubts.

The good news is that we can protect ourselves and protect ourselves from these diseases. 100% security is only provided by refraining from relationships. But the use of latex condoms and other types of barriers, such as the female condom, reduce the risk of contracting them. It is important to use them with every sexual contact, even if you are using another contraceptive method.

In sexual relations affection and pleasure are shared. Taking into account the recommendations mentioned to practice safe sex will mean that there is no need to worry later.