Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Infections caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites that are primarily transmitted through unprotected sex, sharing needles, or from infected mothers to their children during birth or breastfeeding.

HIV/AIDS

A viral STI that attacks helper T cells in the immune system, making the infected person more susceptible to infections. It is primarily transmitted through unprotected sex and sharing needles.

Hepatitis A

A viral STI transmitted through contact with infected blood, unprotected sex, or sharing needles. It causes symptoms such as fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite, and can lead to liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, or liver failure.

Hepatitis B

A viral STI transmitted through blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and other body fluids. It causes symptoms similar to Hepatitis A and can lead to liver cirrhosis and liver cancer.

Genital Herpes

An STI caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) and transmitted through sexual contact. It manifests as painful blisters and sores and can be managed with antiviral medications, but there is no cure.

Syphilis

A bacterial STI caused by Treponema pallidum and transmitted through sexual contact or from mother to baby during pregnancy. It can cause a rash, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and severe complications affecting various organs.

Chlamydia

A bacterial STI one of the most common worldwide. It is often asymptomatic but can lead to complications like infertility and pelvic inflammatory disease if left untreated.

Gonorrhea

An STI caused by bacteria and transmitted through sexual contact. It causes symptoms such as painful urination, discharge, and pelvic pain, and can lead to serious complications if untreated.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

A viral STI transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. It can cause genital warts and is associated with an increased risk of cervical, vulvar, vaginal, anal, and penile cancers.