STIs, Sexual Dysfunction & Myths – Review Flashcards

These question-and-answer flashcards review key facts on HPV, syphilis, trichomoniasis, sexual-dysfunction assessment, and common myths, helping you test both clinical knowledge and myth-busting concepts.

What type of virus is HPV and what preventive measure is recommended for everyone?

HPV is a DNA virus, and a vaccine against it is recommended for all individuals.

Why do most sexually active people not realize they have HPV?

Because HPV infections are frequently asymptomatic and often resolve spontaneously.

How are genital warts caused by HPV typically described?

Pale, soft, papillary lesions that can appear on internal or external genitalia and the perianal/rectal areas, varying in size.

Which serious cancer risk increases in females with persistent HPV infection?

Cervical cancer (as well as certain other anogenital cancers).

What organism causes syphilis and how is it commonly detected?

Treponema pallidum, a spirochete that is detected through serologic blood testing.

In which populations are syphilis rates currently rising?

Among gay and bisexual males and in pregnant individuals.

When does a primary syphilitic lesion typically appear after exposure and what is its hallmark feature?

10 days to 3 months post-exposure; it presents as a single painless genital lesion (chancre).

List the main clinical signs of secondary syphilis.

Generalized skin rash, enlarged lymph nodes, and fever occurring 2–4 weeks after the primary lesion; symptoms may last for years.

During which stage of syphilis are there usually no symptoms, and how long can it last?

The latent stage, which can last up to 20 years without clinical symptoms.

Name at least three organ systems that can be affected during tertiary syphilis.

Heart, brain/nervous system, and blood vessels.

Which protozoan causes trichomoniasis and how might it be incidentally identified?

Trichomonas vaginalis; it can be seen on a Pap smear.

Why are trichomoniasis infections often unnoticed in males?

Because males are typically asymptomatic carriers.

Describe the classic vaginal discharge associated with trichomoniasis in females.

Foul-smelling, thin, foamy, green discharge accompanied by vulvar/vaginal itching, dysuria, and dyspareunia.

What distinctive cervical finding may be observed in trichomoniasis?

'Strawberry' cervix on colposcopy (punctate hemorrhages).

Name four medical history factors to assess in a man with erectile dysfunction (ED).

Diabetes, spinal cord trauma, cardiovascular disease, prior surgery, or alcoholism (any four).

Which common medication classes can contribute to erectile dysfunction?

Antihypertensives, antidepressants, and certain illicit drugs.

Beyond physical causes, what psychological factor must be explored in the assessment of ED?

Degree of mental depression or psychological stress.

When assessing premature ejaculation, what relationship factors should be considered?

Anxiety, guilt, lack of time, or presence of a new partner.

Delayed ejaculation is often linked to which neurologic condition and medication use?

Parkinson disease and certain medications that may impair ejaculation.

List two medication or substance uses that can reduce female sexual desire.

Oral contraceptives/hormonal therapy and alcohol (others: certain medications).

Why is it important to inquire about past abuse when assessing inhibited sexual desire in females?

A history of sexual abuse, rape, or incest can significantly diminish sexual desire and contribute to dysfunction.

Which three assessment areas are critical for female orgasmic dysfunction?

Knowledge of sexual response, communication with partner, and usual sexual patterns/behaviors.

Give three possible organic causes of dyspareunia in females.

Diabetes, hormonal imbalance, vaginal infection, endometriosis, urethritis, cervicitis, or rectal lesions (any three).

What simple physical factor should be checked when a woman reports dyspareunia?

Her ability to achieve adequate vaginal lubrication during intercourse.

Which everyday products might irritate the genitals and lead to dyspareunia?

Deodorant tampons, contraceptive creams or jellies, certain condoms, or other cosmetic/chemical irritants.

What psychological history is especially relevant when evaluating vaginismus?

A history of sexual abuse, trauma, or rape.

Name two emotional factors that can precipitate vaginismus.

Fear of pregnancy, anxiety, guilt, or negative feelings toward partner (any two).

Does sexual desire and ability normally decrease markedly after middle age?

No; physiologically, sexual desire and ability do not decrease dramatically after middle age.

How does consistent sexual activity throughout life affect later-life sexual functioning?

The more consistently a person remains sexually active, the longer sexual activity tends to persist into later years.

Is sexual abstinence necessary for peak athletic performance?

No; orgasm is rarely more physically demanding than daily activities, and there is no evidence that sex hampers athletic performance.

True or false: Excessive sexual activity can lead to mental illness.

False; there is no scientific basis for linking excessive or absent sexual activity with mental or physical illness.

What percentage of males experience erotic dreams that end in orgasm, and are such dreams normal?

At least 85% of males; yes, they are a normal physiologic phenomenon.

Do physiologic studies support the idea that females are naturally passive and males aggressive in sexual activity?

No; studies show women can have a sex drive as strong—or stronger—than men’s and can be equally active.

Why is labeling women with multiple orgasms as "nymphomaniacs" a myth?

Because women often have greater potential for multiple or frequent orgasms; this is a normal variant, not pathology.

Is there a physiological distinction between "vaginal" and "clitoral" orgasms?

No; orgasm is a total body response typically initiated by clitoral stimulation, not two separate types.

Must partners achieve simultaneous orgasm for a mature sexual relationship?

No; simultaneous orgasm is desirable but unrealistic for many couples and not required for satisfaction.

Does penis size significantly influence a partner’s ability to reach orgasm?

Physiologically, penis size has virtually no relation to the partner’s orgasmic potential.