Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are diseases caused by the development of microorganisms in body tissues or fluids that are contracted solely through sexual contact, whether vaginal, anal, or oral.

These conditions spread easily because, in many cases, they do not present symptoms in their early stages. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than one million people aged 15 to 49 contract an STI every day. This is why early detection is so important.

The bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites that cause the infection are usually transmitted from one person to another through blood, semen, or vaginal fluid.

The prognosis for STIs varies, as some infections resolve easily when the appropriate treatment is followed, while others have no definitive cure.

Symptoms

Although STI symptoms vary depending on the type of infection, the most common warning signs include:

• Abnormal urethral discharge.
• Vaginal discharge different from usual.
• Sores or blisters on the genitals, anus, or mouth.
• Swollen lymph nodes near the affected area.
• Pelvic inflammation and pain.
• Testicular pain.
• Burning or itching in the vagina or penis.
• Burning sensation when urinating.
• Pain during bowel movements.
• Vaginal bleeding after sexual intercourse, unrelated to menstruation.
• Amenorrhea (absence of menstruation).
• Excessive bleeding during menstruation.
• Vaginal pain during intercourse.
• Vulvovaginitis: Inflammation of the female genitalia.
• Balanitis: Inflammation of the glans.

Causes

Sexually transmitted infections are caused by:

• Viruses: Genital herpes (HSV), human papillomavirus (HPV), molluscum contagiosum, hepatitis A, B, and C, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus.
• Bacteria: Gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, Gardnerella vaginalis, mycoplasmas, chancroid.
• Fungi: Candidiasis.
• Parasites: Trichomonas vaginalis, pubic lice, scabies.

Risk Factors

The likelihood of contracting an STI increases in the following cases:

• Engaging in penetrative sex without a condom (including oral sex).
• Having multiple sexual partners.
• History of sexually transmitted infections.
• Newborns of infected mothers, as transmission can occur during pregnancy or childbirth.

Complications

A sexually transmitted infection, especially if not detected and treated in time, can lead to:

• Infertility.
• Pelvic inflammatory disease.
• Cervical cancer.
• Pregnancy complications.
• Birth of a baby with an STI.

Prevention

To prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted infections, it is advisable to:

• Use condoms correctly during all sexual encounters.
• Avoid risky sexual contact.
• Limit the number of sexual partners.
• Undergo regular STI screening tests.

Which Doctor Treats STIs?

Sexually transmitted infections are treated in the following medical specialties: gynecology and obstetrics, urology, internal medicine, or family medicine.