Don’t think having a condom is okay

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), or sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are often passed from one person to another through sexual contact. Most of them are quite common and effective treatments are available, especially in the early stages.

Some STIs are benign, but others can lead to serious complications if a person does not seek treatment.

Anyone can get a sexually transmitted infection, regardless of their sexual orientation and hygiene standards. Many sexually transmitted infections can be transmitted through non-penetrative sexual activity.

In the previous post, we shared with our readers about Chlamydia and pubic lice. In this article, we will cover genital herpes, Hepatitis B and Trichomonas.

Genital herpes

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a common virus that affects the skin, cervix, genitals, and several other parts of the body.

HSV-1 usually affects the mouth. People can contract HSV through saliva or if there are herpes-related sores around a sexual partner’s mouth. It can be transmitted to the genital area during oral sex.

HSV-2 can affect the genital area, anal area, and mouth. It is transmitted through vaginal, oral, and anal sex.

A person cannot get the herpes virus from utensils, toilet seats, swimming pools, soaps, or beds. However, if a person touches the part of the body that has herpes and then touches another part of the body, they can spread it to that area.

Once a cold sore appears, it stays in the body. However, it usually doesn’t work and many people will never develop symptoms.

The main symptom is blisters around the mouth, anus, or genital area. These blisters can burst and cause painful sores. It takes a week or so to go away.

Some symptoms of initial infection include: Fever; Body aches; Swollen lymph nodes; Some people never have symptoms, some have an initial flare-up, and others have multiple flare-ups.

The first episode is usually the most severe. People with compromised immune systems – for example, due to HIV infection – are at higher risk of severe symptoms in general. Having herpes can also increase your risk of getting or transmitting HIV.

A person may never know they have the herpes virus, but they can still pass it on to others.

There is currently no cure, but medication can help relieve symptoms. Daily antiviral medication can help prevent the spread of herpes.

And one caveat is that wearing a condom will not completely prevent the transmission of herpes.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B can cause long-term infections and lead to liver damage. When a person has the virus, it can remain in their semen, blood, and other body fluids.

Can be transmitted through: Sexual intercourse; Use non-sterile equipment for injection; Pierce the skin with a sharp object into the site of the virus.

A woman can pass this infection to her baby during pregnancy or delivery. However, your doctor can advise on ways to prevent this.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as long as the nipples are not cracked, the risk of transmitting the virus through breast milk is negligible.

People at high risk for hepatitis B should ask their doctor about the vaccine, which may provide some protection. However, vaccines may not provide long-term immunity, and people may need booster doses for continued protection.

Trichomoniasis (Trichomoniasis)

Trichomoniasis (or trich) can affect both men and women, but women are more likely to experience symptoms. Trichomonas vaginalis is the cause of this infection.

In females, it is more likely to affect the vagina. In men, an infection can develop in the urethra.

Transmission can occur through penetrative sex and vulva-to-vulva contact.

Many people do not experience any symptoms. If symptoms do occur, they may include: Unusual discharge; Pain when urinating; Pain during ejaculation; Pain or discomfort during sex; Trich can also lead to pregnancy complications and increase the risk of HIV infection and transmission.

A doctor can prescribe medication to treat trich, but both partners will likely need treatment or the infection could return. Without treatment, trich can last for months or years.