What are the most common sexually transmitted diseases?
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While AIDS is the first thing that comes to our mind when we talk about an STD, there are more common and less severe ones too. Most of these are a result of unsafe sex practices and can be easily avoided. AIDS and syphilis are the more severe ones and affect other body organs very severely. It is important to note that STDs are easily preventable, and if in doubt of having acquired one, getting tested at the earliest is the best way to manage it. It will help reduce complications and curb the disease at the less severe stages Safe sex practices are the best way to avoid acquiring STDs.
What are common symptoms to suspect STD in women?
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One of the first symptoms in a woman to suspect STD would be burning sensation with urination or sexual intercourse. There also could be small bumps or lumps along with soreness and itching. These need to be tested and watched if they grow in size or number. If there is discharge, then it is a cause for concern, especially if it is foul-smelling (like pus) or is dark in color. Do not panic if you feel a lump or bump in your vagina; however, do not ignore them either.
What are some common symptoms to suspect STD in men?
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Symptoms associated with STDs in men are slightly different from women. While some may be completely asymptomatic, others may affect the whole body (HIV for instance). STDs can be caused by bacteria or virus or parasites and onset can vary depending on the causative organism. HIV, human papilloma virus, herpes simplex, gonorrhea, and chlamydia are the most common ones in men. If you are having genital symptoms followed by unprotected sex, seek medical help to ensure STD is ruled out.
Some STDs are incurable
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Some STDs like herpes, HIV, HPV, and gonorrhoea do not have a complete treatment option. The symptoms can be managed, but a definite cure is yet to be arrived at. Herpes, for instance, affects the nervous system and HIV, the entire immune system. They remain in the body for ever and can cause effects on a periodic basis. If you have contracted any of the incurable STDs, then it is all the more important to prevent safe sexual habits to avoid spreading them to others.
Having an incurable STD affects the quality of life severely
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Depends on the disease that you are carrying. For something like chlamydia, it may be silent other than causing pelvic pain. For someone with herpes, the nerves are affected. For someone with AIDS, the entire lifestyle is affected, and they need to improve the quality of life with conscious effort. From being more prone to infections to the social stigma, it is a significant change. Risky sexual behaviour can have serious repercussions, so practice safe sex.