At one point in our life, we could suffer from some kind of illness. We could catch something as common as cold, flu or measles to something as bizarre as STD, meaning Sexually Transmitted Disease. STD, in contrast to the other illnesses previously mentioned, happens because of our carelessness and something more...

At first, the term "sexual disease" referred to syphilitic and gonorrhoeal infections, and was deemed the same. However, further studies showed that they are two totally different illnesses and discovered even more (20 or more) infections that can be sexually transmitted.

In STD, pathogens are transferred by being in direct contact with the infected part or fluids of the body such as genital fluids, saliva, and blood. STD is an infection passed on through any sexual act (vaginal, oral or anal) which causes one to come in contact with the infected genital area.

STDs are particularly acquired through sexual contact and not by cursory contacts with the infected area or object, not even from mother to foetus. Indications first manifest in the area of the genitals but could also appear on the mouth, neck eyes, among others.

There are two broad categories of Major STDS: -syphilis -gonorrhoea

Minor STDs, which are: -vaginal herpes -venerian vegetations -scab -some forms of viral hepatitis

More recently, HIV infection and syphilis caused worldwide concern because of its spread in epidemic proportions. Symptoms of this illness are experienced in the genital area such as unusual discharges from the vagina or penis, burning sensations, pelvic pain, contact dermatitis, and a feeling of pain and discomfort during sex or while urinating. Because one does not experience any or all of these symptoms does not mean that one is free of STD. Sometimes, even if the infection is already pervasive inside the body, it does not manifest until treatment time or when symptoms already becomes persistent.

Early medical examinations and correct diagnosis is the key to the treatment of STD. Going for experiential treatments is not a good idea as it could be a hit and miss process and could further delay proper diagnosis and eventual treatment.

First you can be seen by your family doctor, who will ask a specialist to examine you, you need tests and corresponding treatment. The treatment must be follow during the entire period recommended even if symptoms may disappear. Sexual relationships can start again in 3 days since interrupting the treatment, according to the specialist doctor's recommendations.

You run more risk of being infected if you have more than one sexual partner, when you do not practice safe sex by using condoms or when your partner is an intravenous drug user and also has a number of sexual partners.

Being infected with STD can happen to both men and women, regardless of their age. Be aware that symptoms may not manifest at once, especially for women. STD for women may cause inflammation of the pelvis which could lead to an irreversible condition such as infertility.