A sexually transmitted infection (STI) is a contagious disease that is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Also known as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), these infections can be caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi that reside in the genital, urinary, or reproductive tract of an infected individual.
STIs can affect both men and women, and they are among the most common infections worldwide. They can be transmitted through intimate sexual activities such as genital-to-genital contact, sharing of sex toys, or unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected person. Some STIs can also be transmitted through non-sexual activities, such as from mother to child during childbirth or through contaminated blood transfusions.
Common examples of STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and hepatitis B. These infections can manifest with various symptoms, including genital sores, discharge, burning or itching sensations, pain during urination, or flu-like symptoms. However, some STIs may exhibit no symptoms at all, which makes regular testing and practicing safe sexual behaviors crucial for early detection and prevention.
Treatment for STIs typically involves medication, such as antibiotics or antivirals, depending on the type of infection. Some STIs, such as HIV, currently have no cure, but antiretroviral therapy can slow down disease progression and reduce transmission risks. Condom use, regular testing, and practicing mutual monogamy or abstinence are essential measures to prevent the spread of STIs.
