What are STIs?

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), also called sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), include more than 30 different bacteria, viruses, and parasites that get passed from person to person through sexual contact — anal, vaginal, or oral sex.

STIs are a serious public health problem that affects your overall health and well-being. Because of the stigma surrounding STIs, many people may not get the treatment they need to manage their infection, putting them at risk of developing long-term health complications.

What are the most common STIs?

There are more than 20 known STIs. However, some are more common than others. The most common STIs include:
 

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a bacterial STI that causes painful urination and abnormal genital discharge. However, you can have chlamydia and not have any symptoms.
 

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is also a bacterial STI that causes painful urination and abnormal genital discharge. In women, gonorrhea can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infertility when left untreated.
 

Syphilis

Syphilis is a bacterial infection that causes painless genital sores. When left untreated, syphilis damages the heart, liver, skin, and joints.
 

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a parasitic infection that causes genital itching, burning or redness, discomfort during urination, and an abnormal genital discharge.
 

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a viral STI that may not cause any symptoms until you have liver damage. However, you can get a vaccine that protects you from getting this STI.
 

Herpes simplex virus (HSV)

HSV is a very contagious viral STI that causes oral and genital sores.
 

HIV

HIV is a viral STI that attacks and destroys your immune-fighting cells, making you more susceptible to infections.
 

Human papillomavirus (HPV)

HPV is a viral STI. There are different strains of HPV that cause varying symptoms, like genital warts. However, some strains of HPV cause no symptoms but increase your risk of cancer. You get a vaccine that protects you from the cancer-causing strains of HPV.

If you have any concerns about STIs, schedule a consultation at Reza Health.
 

What are the treatments for STIs?

Treatment for STIs depends on the type of infection you have. We can cure a bacterial or parasitic STI with a course of antibiotics.

Currently, there are no cures for viral STIs like HIV, HPV, and HSV. We provide medications that manage the disease and reduce your risk of transmitting your infection to your sexual partner.

For expert STI care, call Reza Health or schedule an appointment online today.