What are STI?
Sexually transmitted infections are diseases one can get from having unprotected oral, vaginal or anal sex with an infected person.
There are also some STI that can be transmitted through blood transfusion, from an infected mother to her baby. There are still those that can be transferred through close personal contact, sharing of personal items and living in cramped conditions with an infected person.
How will I know if I have an STI?
Most STI have symptoms that you will feel from 2 days to a few weeks after having sex with an infected partner. Some of these symptoms are:
- abnormal discharge from the genitals
- painful urination
- presence of painful blisters on and around the genitals
- presence of a non-painful sore on the genitals
- extreme itchiness of the genitals and surrounding areas
- presence of warts on the genitals
- swelling of the testicles
If you think you have an STI, don’t be too ashamed or afraid to consult a doctor. If the doctor prescribes a medication that is to be taken for a week, comply with the order. Taking the complete course of treatment is most helpful in curing STI.
Never take the medication that your recommended. There are many kinds of STI and consequently, there are medicines for each infection. It is best if you are diagnosed properly first.
Inform your sexual partner so that he or she may be treated also, in case.
While taking your medication, always engage in protected sex. Avoid taking alcohol because alcohol prevents the total absorption of medicines, affecting its effectiveness.
What will happen if I don’t get treated for STI?
Untreated STI have various complications that range from sterility, urethral stricture (closure of the urethral passageway), to infections that affect the heart and the brain. Some untreated STI can also lead to the development of some forms of cancer.
Will untreated STI lead to AIDS?
Not really. However, having an STI increases one’s vulnerability of having HIV, especially if the person doesn’t improve his sexual behavior.
