💑Human Sexuality Unit 9 – Sexually Transmitted Infections

What Are STIs?

• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections passed from one person to another through sexual contact
• STIs can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites
• Transmission occurs through vaginal, anal, or oral sex, as well as genital touching
• Some STIs can also be transmitted through non-sexual means (sharing needles, mother-to-child during pregnancy or childbirth)
• STIs can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, or sexual orientation
• Many STIs are asymptomatic, meaning infected individuals may not show any signs or symptoms
• Untreated STIs can lead to serious health complications (infertility, chronic pain, certain cancers)
• STIs are a major global health concern with millions of new infections occurring each year

Common Types of STIs

• Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that often presents no symptoms but can cause urethritis and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Gonorrhea is a bacterial infection that can infect the genitals, rectum, and throat causing painful urination and discharge
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a viral infection that can cause genital warts and certain types of cancer (cervical, anal, throat)
  • HPV is the most common STI with many different strains
  • HPV vaccines are available to protect against the most high-risk strains
• Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) is a viral infection that causes genital or oral herpes with painful blisters or sores
• Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a viral infection that weakens the immune system and can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS)
• Syphilis is a bacterial infection that progresses in stages causing sores, rashes, and potentially severe complications if left untreated
• Trichomoniasis is a parasitic infection that can cause genital irritation, painful urination, and discharge
• Hepatitis B and C are viral infections that can be transmitted sexually and affect the liver causing inflammation and damage

Transmission and Risk Factors

• STIs are primarily transmitted through sexual contact with an infected person
• Risk of transmission increases with multiple sexual partners and inconsistent condom use
• Engaging in unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex heightens the risk of contracting an STI
• Having a history of STIs makes an individual more susceptible to future infections
• Certain sexual practices (rough sex, douching, sharing sex toys) can increase the likelihood of transmission by causing micro-tears or disrupting the natural bacterial balance
• Substance abuse, particularly intravenous drug use and sharing needles, elevates the risk of contracting STIs like HIV and Hepatitis
• Lack of comprehensive sex education and access to healthcare services contribute to the spread of STIs
• Biological factors (vaginal tissue is more susceptible to infection, uncircumcised penis can harbor bacteria) can influence transmission risk

Signs and Symptoms

• Many STIs are asymptomatic, meaning they present no noticeable signs or symptoms
• Common symptoms of STIs include painful urination, genital discharge, and abdominal pain
  • Discharge may be unusual in color, consistency, or odor
  • Pain during urination or sexual intercourse can indicate an infection
• Genital sores, blisters, or rashes are characteristic of certain STIs (herpes, syphilis, HPV)
• Flu-like symptoms (fever, fatigue, body aches) can occur with some STIs, particularly HIV
• Irregular vaginal bleeding or spotting between periods may be a sign of an STI
• Swollen lymph nodes in the groin area can indicate an infection
• Rectal pain, discharge, or bleeding can be symptoms of STIs transmitted through anal sex
• Itching or irritation in the genital area may be a sign of an STI (trichomoniasis, pubic lice)

Testing and Diagnosis

• Regular STI testing is crucial for early detection and treatment, especially for individuals who are sexually active
• Many STIs can be diagnosed through a simple urine test or swab of the affected area
• Blood tests are used to diagnose STIs like HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis
• Pap smears and HPV tests are important for detecting precancerous changes in the cervix caused by HPV
• Some STIs (herpes, genital warts) can be diagnosed through a visual examination by a healthcare provider
• It's important to inform sexual partners if an STI is diagnosed to prevent further transmission
• Certain STIs require follow-up testing to ensure the infection has been effectively treated
• At-home STI testing kits are available, but it's essential to follow up with a healthcare provider for confirmation and treatment

Treatment Options

• Treatment for STIs varies depending on the specific infection and its cause (bacterial, viral, parasitic)
• Bacterial STIs (chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis) are typically treated with antibiotics
  • It's crucial to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if symptoms improve
  • Sexual partners should also be treated to prevent reinfection
• Viral STIs (HIV, herpes, HPV) cannot be cured, but symptoms can be managed with antiviral medications
  • HIV treatment involves antiretroviral therapy (ART) to suppress the virus and prevent the progression to AIDS
  • Herpes outbreaks can be managed with antiviral drugs (acyclovir, valacyclovir) to reduce severity and frequency
• Parasitic STIs (trichomoniasis) are treated with antiparasitic medications (metronidazole)
• Some STIs may require additional treatments (cryotherapy for genital warts, surgery for severe PID)
• Vaccines are available to prevent certain STIs (HPV, Hepatitis B)
• Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider is important to monitor treatment effectiveness and potential complications

Prevention Strategies

• Practicing safer sex is the most effective way to reduce the risk of contracting STIs
• Using barrier methods (condoms, dental dams) consistently and correctly during sexual activity can significantly lower transmission risk
  • Condoms should be used for vaginal, anal, and oral sex
  • Dental dams should be used for oral-vaginal and oral-anal contact
• Getting vaccinated against HPV and Hepatitis B can provide protection against these STIs
• Limiting the number of sexual partners and engaging in mutual monogamy can decrease exposure to STIs
• Regular STI testing, especially before engaging with new sexual partners, helps prevent the spread of infections
• Abstaining from sexual activity is the only 100% effective method of preventing STIs
• Communicating openly with sexual partners about STI status and testing history promotes informed decision-making
• Avoiding sharing needles or other drug paraphernalia reduces the risk of contracting blood-borne STIs
• Comprehensive sex education is crucial for promoting STI awareness and prevention strategies

Social and Psychological Impact

• STIs can carry significant social stigma and shame, leading to feelings of isolation and anxiety
• Receiving an STI diagnosis can cause emotional distress, impacting self-esteem and sexual relationships
• Fear of judgment or rejection may prevent individuals from disclosing their STI status to sexual partners
• The chronic nature of some STIs (HIV, herpes) can lead to ongoing psychological challenges and stress
• Stigmatization and discrimination based on STI status can occur in social, professional, and healthcare settings
• The financial burden of STI treatment and management can contribute to stress and anxiety
• Coping with an STI diagnosis may require mental health support and counseling
• Open and honest communication with sexual partners, friends, and family can help reduce feelings of isolation and shame
• Engaging with support groups or online communities can provide a sense of connection and understanding
• Advocating for comprehensive sex education and destigmatization of STIs can help create a more supportive social environment