Gonorrhea, Herpes, Syphilis
These are infectious diseases that spread to others through sexual intercourse, including vaginal, oral, or anal sex. The main problem with these diseases is that patients often realize their abnormalities late or ignore the symptoms, or feel embarrassed to seek medical treatment.
Vaginal Yeast Infection
Vaginal yeast infection is caused by the fungus Candida albicans. Normally, this fungus exists in the vagina without causing disease. However, if the body’s immune system is weakened, if antibiotics are taken for a long time, or if there are certain underlying diseases such as diabetes, AIDS, or prolonged moisture in the genital area, the fungus can multiply and cause disease. Important symptoms that require medical consultation include:
- Abnormal vaginal discharge
- Foul odor
- Red and swollen vaginal walls
- Itching in the genital area and inside the vagina. These symptoms indicate a risk of severe sexually transmitted infections.
AIDS
AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) is a syndrome caused by infection with the HIV virus, which destroys white blood cells that produce immunity, making it easier to contract other infections and is a major cause of death.
Gonorrhea
Caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which thrives in moist and warm areas of the reproductive system, including the cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, and urethra (in both women and men). Gonorrhea can also grow in other areas such as the oral mucosa, throat, eyes, and anus. It is transmitted through contact with the mucous membranes of the vagina, mouth, anus, or penis, with or without ejaculation. It can also be transmitted from mother to baby during childbirth.
Syphilis
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that does not only affect the reproductive organs but can occur anywhere in the body, such as the tongue, hands, arms, legs, as well as the nervous system, heart, blood vessels, eyes, and bones. It is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, a large spiral-shaped bacterium. Syphilis is transmitted through sexual intercourse, entering through small cuts or abrasions or by penetrating the mucous membranes of the urethra, anus, vagina, or mouth.
Herpes
Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus. It is transmitted through direct contact with an infected person. The virus enters the skin causing the first outbreak of herpes. Afterwards, the virus accumulates in nerve ganglia and, when triggered, moves along the nerves to the skin or mucous membranes causing recurrent outbreaks. Herpes can occur in various locations such as the lips or genital area.
Genital Warts
Genital warts are a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) of low-risk types. When infected, the virus disrupts the division of the basal layer cells of the mucous membrane, causing uncontrolled changes in cell shape and function, resulting in soft, pink, cauliflower-like growths. They prefer warm and moist areas. In men, warts are often found on the penis under the foreskin, around the urethral opening, and on the scrotum. In women, they are found on the vaginal opening, vaginal walls, cervix, anus, and perineum. The warts tend to grow larger over time.
