Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infectious diseases and are almost always transmitted through sexual contact. STIs is an older term, but “sexually transmitted infections” is more modern. This term is used to emphasise the fact that many infections are symptomless. The infection may not manifest itself as a disease, but it can leave lasting effects on the internal reproductive organs.
The most common sexually transmitted diseases in Slovenia
- genital warts
- Claudia
- non-specific urethritis*
- syphilis
- genital herpes
- gonorrhoea
* Inflammation of the urethra or cervix not caused by gonorrhoea. However, the symptoms are mostly the same as for gonorrhoea.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases Are Divided According to Causative Agents
There are bacterial STDs – chlamydia, syphilis and gonorrhoea. All of these are treated in time with antibiotics and, if treated properly, leave no lasting effects.
The second group is viral STDs – HIV, HPV, herpes and hepatitis. The special feature of these is that in most cases the viruses remain in the body after infection and can be passed on. In this case, we can only treat the consequences of the SPB infection, but we cannot get rid of the virus itself. The causative agents of SPB can include fungi (candidiasis), protozoa (trichomoniasis) or ectoparasites (scabies, pubic lice).
Who Can Get Infected?
Any sexually active person, regardless of age, education, social status or sexual orientation, can be infected with a sexually transmitted disease. People who engage in risky behaviour are more likely to be infected. These are people who change sexual partners frequently, use protection inconsistently. The best protection against SPB is explained in the ABC points below:
A – abstinence from risky sexual contacts
B – fidelity to one sexual partner
C – consistent use of condoms
What to do in case of a possible infection?
If you suspect that you may have contracted a sexually transmitted disease as a result of risky sex or for any other reason, you should get tested immediately. The best way is, of course, to get tested by a specialist in an appropriate laboratory – but many people opt for a quick test at home first. They are also available in our online shop (fast and discreet).
Read more articles: