STIs – Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Viruses

Instead of calling them species, we refer to different "strains" of viruses. These strains consist of a relatively short piece of genetic material (DNA or RNA) surrounded by a protein coat.

Unlike bacterial infections, viral infections cannot be treated with antibiotics because antibiotics are designed to target bacteria, not viruses.

• Infections that spread through sexual contact & intercourse

HIV/AIDS

What is HIV?

• HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. It is a virus that weakens the immune system by attacking white blood cells.

How is HIV Contracted?

HIV is transmitted through the exchange of body fluids. This can occur during:

• Unprotected sexual contact.
• Sharing unsterilised needles (e.g., drug use).
• Blood-to-blood contact, such as through cuts or injuries.
• It can also be transmitted from mother to baby during childbirth or breastfeeding.

Symptoms of HIV:

Shortly after infection, people often experience flu-like symptoms, including:

• Fever.
• Sore throat.
• Fatigue.

Progression to AIDS:

• AIDS stands for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome.
• Over time (months or years), if HIV is left untreated, the virus destroys more and more white blood cells, weakening the immune system further.
• At this stage, the immune system is so weakened that the body is unable to fight off infections and diseases, leading to AIDS.

Treatment:

There is no cure for HIV/AIDS, but people can be treated with antiviral drugs. These drugs:

• Slow down the replication of the virus.
• Significantly delay the onset of AIDS.
• Help maintain the immune system for a longer period. | Symptoms | How its spread | How its avoided | |---|---|---| | Immune system deteriorates and eventually fails (more vulnerable to pathogens) | Bodily fluids
  • Blood
  • Semen
  • Vaginal fluid | • Condom
  • Avoid sharing needles (drug users)
  • Medication reduces risk through sex & mother to baby
  • Screening
  • Treatment |

Chlamydia

What is Chlamydia?

Chlamydia is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

How is Chlamydia Contracted?

Chlamydia is mainly spread through:

• Unprotected sexual contact (vaginal, anal, or oral sex) with an infected person.
• It can also be passed from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth.

Symptoms of Chlamydia:

However, when symptoms do appear, they may include:

• Pain or a burning sensation during urination.
• Unusual discharge from the penis or vagina.
• Pain in the lower abdomen (for women).
• Pain during intercourse (for women).

Complications:

If untreated, chlamydia can lead to serious complications, such as:

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) in women, which can cause infertility.
• Epididymitis in men, which can cause swelling and pain in the testicles.

Treatment:

Chlamydia can be easily treated with antibiotics.

• It is important to get treated early to prevent long-term health problems.
• Sexual partners should also be treated to prevent re-infection.