Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) Overview

This set of flashcards covers critical vocabulary and information related to sexually transmitted infections, including definitions, symptoms, treatments, prevention strategies, and significant statistics.

Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI)

An infection spread from person to person through intimate sexual contact.

Risk Factors for STIs

Includes being sexually active, age under 25, new or multiple partners, substance use, and inconsistent condom use.

Common STIs

Includes Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Genital Herpes, HPV, Hepatitis B, HIV, Pubic Lice, Syphilis, and Trichomoniasis.

Chlamydia

The most common STI in the US, caused by Chlamydia Trachomatis, treated with antibiotics.

Symptoms of STIs

Often asymptomatic; symptoms may not appear for weeks, months, or years.

Gonorrhea

Caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae; incubates within 2 to 7 days and treated with antibiotics.

Genital Herpes (HSV)

Caused by herpes virus; symptoms include painful blisters; persist for life.

HPV (Genital Warts)

Caused by human papillomavirus; may cause warts and cervical changes in women.

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS)

Caused by HIV, leading to severe immune system damage.

Prevention of STIs

Includes using latex condoms, dental dams, and practicing abstinence.

HIV Transmission

Possible through blood, semen, vaginal fluids, breast milk, and possibly saliva.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

A complication that can occur due to untreated STIs like Chlamydia and Gonorrhea.

Trichomoniasis

A protozoan infection that is transmitted through sexual contact.

Pubic Lice

Tiny insects transmitted through bodily contact, treated with OTC medications.

Syphilis

Caused by Treponema pallidum, which can lead to severe health complications.

Symptoms of Gonorrhea

Includes discharge, pain during urination, and potential complications.

Incubation Period

The time between exposure to an infection and when symptoms begin.

Condom Effectiveness

Reduces the risk of STIs; however, not all infections can be prevented.

STI Testing

Recommended for sexually active individuals, particularly under 25.

HSV Diagnosis

Via culture of lesions and type-specific blood tests; false negatives are common.

Treatment of Chlamydia

Recommended antibiotics include Azithromycin and Doxycycline.

Genital Herpes Treatment

Controlled with antiviral medications, especially if taken early.

Symptoms of Syphilis

Painless sores in its primary stage; rash and flu-like symptoms in its secondary stage.

Diagnosis of Syphilis

Blood tests to distinguish between active and old infections.

Complications of Untreated STIs

Can lead to infertility, chronic pain, and increase risk for HIV.

STI Screening Recommendations for Women

Annual screening for sexually active women under 25 with every partner change.

Chlamydia Symptoms

My include yellow discharge, painful urination, and pelvic pain.

Gonorrhea Treatment

Ceftriaxone plus Azithromycin or Doxycycline for uncomplicated infections.

HPV Screening

No screening for genital warts; diagnosis primarily through visual examination.

Pap Testing

Recommended to start at 21 years; assesses for cervical abnormalities.

HIV Testing Methods

Includes rapid tests and ELISA tests; confirmatory tests needed.

Trichomoniasis Symptoms

Characterized by frothy discharge and irritation.

Chlamydia Screening

Using NAAT; urine tests preferred for accuracy.

Vaginal Swabs

Most accurate method for STI testing with high specificity.

Substance Use and STIs

Can increase risk behavior and likelihood of contracting STIs.

Health History Considerations

Important to ask all patients about recent sexual activity and preferences.

Sexual Contact Risks

Includes any intimate contact, even without penetration.

Emergency Room Visits

Encouraged for severe STI symptoms like heavy bleeding or extreme pain.

Immunodeficiency

A compromised immune system, increasing vulnerability to infections.

Incidence Rates

Statistical rate of occurrence of STIs within a set population.

Partner Notification

Encouraged for STI positive individuals to inform their partners.

Symptoms of HIV

May include persistent fever, weight loss, and swollen lymph nodes.

Long-term Effects of Untreated STIs

Can include chronic illness, cancer, and reproductive health problems.

Condom Use Importance

Essential for reducing STI transmission risk.

Educational Resources

Include websites and organizations providing STI information.

Patient Privacy

Maintained during STI treatment and testing procedures.

Healthcare Provider Role

To provide education, screening, and treatment for STIs.

Chronic Symptoms

May develop in untreated STIs, affecting overall health.

Vaccine Availability

For some STIs like HPV to help in prevention.

Health Guidelines

CDC recommendations for STI testing and treatment protocols.

STI Awareness

Essential for prevention and early detection of infections.

Communication with Partners

Crucial in managing sexual health and STI prevention.

Government Public Health Initiatives

Programs aimed at raising awareness and prevention of STIs.

Educating Youth

Improving knowledge about safe sexual practices among younger populations.

Advocacy for STI Testing

Encouraging routine testing as a standard practice for sexually active individuals.