STIs
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) /ˌsɛkʃuːəli trænsmɪtɪd ɪnfɛkʃənz/ are infections that are commonly spread by sexual activity, especially vaginal intercourse, anal sex, and oral sex. The term is also known as Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs).
Etymology
The term "Sexually Transmitted Infection" is a broad term that encompasses infections that are spread primarily through person-to-person sexual contact. The term "STI" is now preferred over "STD" because it includes conditions that may not cause symptoms or disease, but can still be transmitted to others.
Types of STIs
There are more than 20 types of STIs. Some of the most common ones include:
- Chlamydia /kləˈmidiə/ - A bacterial infection that can lead to serious health problems if left untreated.
- Gonorrhea /ˌgɒnəˈriːə/ - Another bacterial infection that can cause complications if not treated.
- Syphilis /ˈsɪfɪlɪs/ - A bacterial infection that can cause long-term complications if not treated early.
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) /ˌhjuːmən pæpɪləˈvaɪrəs/ - The most common STI, it can lead to genital warts and certain types of cancer.
- Herpes /ˈhɜːrpiːz/ - A viral infection that typically affects the mouth and genitals.
- HIV/AIDS /ˌeɪtʃaɪˈviː/ /ˈeɪdz/ - A viral infection that attacks the immune system and can lead to AIDS.
Prevention
Prevention methods for STIs include using condoms during sexual activity, getting vaccinated for certain STIs like HPV and Hepatitis B, and getting regular STI screenings.
Treatment
Treatment for STIs varies depending on the type of infection. Bacterial STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis can be cured with antibiotics. Viral STIs like herpes and HIV cannot be cured, but their symptoms can be managed with medication.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on STIs
- Wikipedia's article - STIs
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