Sexually transmitted infections are on the rise: Should you worry?

In 2018, the number of bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) reported in the United States reached an all-time high. This is worrisome for many reasons. Having an STI can raise risks for HIV, infertility, pregnancy complications, and infant death. Fortunately, all of these outcomes can be avoided if people receive appropriate treatment. What are STIs? STIs are illnesses caused by microorganisms passed between people during sex. An STI can affect anyone who is exposed to it. Syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia are the most common bacterial infections. Trichomoniasis, a protozoan infection, is also diagnosed frequently in women (men who are affected almost never have symptoms). A number of viruses can be sexually transmitted, including herpes simplex virus (HSV), human papilloma virus (HPV), HIV, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. What are the symptoms of an STI? New rashes on or near the genitals or elsewhere on the body, swollen lymph nodes, fevers, or discharge from the penis, vagina, or anus could all be signs of an STI. While many people who have STIs notice such symptoms, some STIs are asymptomatic and can only be identified by screening tests. For example, estimates suggest chlamydia affects close to three million Americans each year, yet symptoms may only occur in 5% to 30% of people. Other STIs, like Mycoplasma genitalium, may not cause symptoms and can be hard to diagnose. Why are sexually transmitted infections increasing? There are many reasons, in...
Source: Harvard Health Blog - Category: Consumer Health News Authors: Tags: Adolescent health HIV Men's Health Relationships Sexual Conditions Women's Health Source Type: blogs