Knowledge is protection to so arm yourself with these quick definitions!
- Human papillomavirus (HPV): This virus is the most common and under-reported STI in North America. It is the only known cause for cervical cancer and can cause genital warts. HPV is transmitted through contact of sexual organs so condoms are not always able to do the trick. HPV infection has been linked to males or females with multiple sex partners.
. - Chlamydia: This is the most common bacterial infection associated with sex. Symptoms are yellowish discharge, inflamed genitals, burning while urinating, and a very harassing itch. However, most men and some women do not experience any symptoms. If left untreated women can contract pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and women with Chlamydia are up to five times more likely to get infected with HIV if they come into contact with it. Chlamydia is spread through genital fluids, so a condom does help if it is worn at all times when genitals are exposed.
. - Gonorrhea: This disease affects the mucous membrane and causes similar symptoms to Chlamydia. It can also cause vomiting, fever, and bleeding between periods. Again, it often comes without any signs of infection, and if left untreated can cause PID. Same prevention as Chlamydia.
. - AIDS/ HIV: AIDS/ HIV is spread through mucous membranes and blood. You cannot get AIDS from kissing, tears, sweat, or sharing drinks. HIV is commonly spread through unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles, and possibly through oral sex.
. - Herpes: Herpes can be contracted through spit, genital fluids, and skin-to-skin contact with an upcoming or existing herpes breakout. Herpes is treatable but not curable and your best protection is to use condoms or dental dams during sex, oral sex, or anal sex.
. - Crabs: Crabs are like lice for your pubic hair. Crabs can also be spread to your eyebrows or scalp if your face happens to be near an infected person’s pubic area. Once you have crabs you’ll most likely know it, and the only way to prevent it is to be observant of your partners.
. - Scabies: Kind of like crabs, but scabies make a home in your skin rather than your hair. Their poo can get infected under your skin and cause inflammatory pimple-like bumps. This disease is associated with poor hygiene.
. - Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): This is not a traditional STI, but it is linked with being sexually active and does not occur in most women until they have lost their virginity. Symptoms include bleeding while urination, the urge to pee all the time, and general discomfort while peeing. Doctor’s recommend ensuring your partner’s sexual organs are properly cleaned before allowing them to come into contact with your own to help prevention. It also helps to urinate after sex.
. - Syphilis: This bacterium is contracted through mucous membranes and goes through several phases. If left untreated it can result in death. Just after an infection a sore will develop at the site where the bacterium entered the body. Condoms can help greatly reduce the risk of transmission.
. - Yeast Infections: Not a traditional STI, but studies show it is most common in sexually active women and it is possible to contract it through sexual contact. Symptoms are itching, burning, genital inflammation, and a thick cottage cheese-like discharge.
. - Vaginitis/Bacteria Vaginosis: This is one of the most under-reported STIs because most women assume it’s a yeast infection. Symptoms are similar to those of a yeast infection, the difference being women who suffer from vaginitis often notice an unusual strong “fishy” odor. If left untreated it can cause infertility and problematic pregnancies.
. - Lymphogranuloma Venereum: LGV attacks the lymph nodes close to your genitals and if left untreated swelling can cause bum blockage. This is a pretty uncommon STI. [[can you give the full name here beyond the acronym?
. - Pregnancy: The big “P” word. When I was in sixth grade, we had a sex ed teacher who told us that women get pregnant when a man and a woman, who love each other very much, take off all of their clothes and hug one another very tightly. At the time I believed it, but now I know everyone has a pretty good handle on this concept thanks to the high educational value of music and TV.
