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Sexually transmitted diseases, or venereal diseases for many people, are still taboo. This is a disturbing phenomenon, especially as there are quick diagnostic methods and effective drugs to quickly forget about the uncomfortable symptoms of these diseases. What are venereal diseases? How is it infected? What to do when we suspect that we are sick?
What are venereal diseases?
In early autumn, after a carefree summer vacation, many discover that they came back from vacation with an unpleasant surprise. We are talking about venereal diseases, i.e. those that are sexually transmitted. Numerous scientific studies have proven the existence of about 40 microorganisms that can cause their development. Interestingly, they are diagnosed more often in men, because in women (mainly due to anatomy) they are sparse or asymptomatic [1].
The most commonly diagnosed venereal diseases include:
- syphilis – caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum, i.e. the pale spirochete. It is extremely dangerous for pregnant women,
- Gonorrhea – gonorrhea is responsible for its development (you can get infected with it even by sharing the same towel with bacteria),
- chlamydiosis – Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria are responsible for the development of the disease in both women and men to a similar extent. If left untreated, the infection can have serious consequences, including fertility problems,
- herpes – 95 percent caused by the HPV virus (human papilloma). Skin changes may be the beginning of the formation of a cancer of the cervix and penis,
- HIV that causes AIDS – the human immunodeficiency virus can exist in the body without manifesting symptoms,
- trichomoniasis – caused by the protozoan Trichomonas vaginalis. It is diagnosed more often in women.
It should be remembered that not all changes in the reproductive organs are indicative of venereal disease. Bacterial, yeast, and other infections can be caused by a variety of factors, including increased temperature around the perineum, wearing tight underwear, long-term antibiotic therapy, diabetes, pregnancy and decreased immunity [1]. So what symptoms could be an STI? Much depends on the type of pathogen causing the condition.
The most common symptoms include:
- skin lesions located on the reproductive organs (ulcers, pustules, pearly papules, gray or flesh-colored growths and warts),
- feeling of strong pressure on the bladder and / or pain during micturition,
- itching in the genital area,
- pain during sexual intercourse,
- cloudy discharge from the genital tract,
- stinging in the area of the lower abdomen,
- enlargement of the lymph nodes,
- unpleasant smell of intimate parts.
How do venereal diseases develop?
Infection with a pathogenic pathogen causing the development of a venereal disease usually occurs through unprotected sexual intercourse (including oral and anal intercourse). Some viruses, such as HIV, can enter the body through contact with blood or other biological material of an infected person (including breast milk). In addition, unsterilized surgical instruments and needles pose a risk. There is also the likelihood of transmission in a public toilet or swimming pool.
The warm and humid environment of intimate places contributes to the development of microorganisms. Initially, STD develops asymptomatically, so the first symptoms may be noticed at an advanced stage of development. It is well known, however, that the sooner the correct diagnosis is made, the greater the chance of implementing effective treatment.
Rapid diagnosis for the presence of venereal diseases
The simplest, fastest and, at the same time, the most reliable method to detect the presence of venereal diseases is to perform a blood test in the laboratory or an antigen test that can be performed discreetly at home.
An example of such a test is the C1 test for mycosis caused by Candida albicans. A few drops of urine and 15 minutes are enough to read the result. On the other hand, bacterial infections can be detected using the G1 test – for the presence of Gardnella vaginalis in the urine – anaerobic bacteria responsible for e.g. unpleasant vaginal smell. Vaginal trichomoniasis is detected by the T1 test – for the presence of Trichomonas vaginalis.
In the case of suspicion of a venereal disease, it is worth performing the so-called antigen panel e.g. S3 test – for the presence of three pathogens – Trichomonas vaginalis (trichomoniasis), Candida albicans (candidiasis) and Gardnella vaginalis (bacterial vaginosis).
The HIV test can also be performed at home, which is comfortable and discreet for many carriers. It is extremely easy to use and gives a reliable result. You only need a large drop of blood drawn from your finger to perform the test.
A majority of famous people from around the world, including Prince Harry, are encouraging to take the HIV test. As part of the global coalition to fight HIV and AIDS, the Duke of Sussex decided in 2016 to take the INSTI live HIV test via Facebook. In this way, he wanted to encourage young people and prove that it takes just a few moments to get tested. “It’s unbelievable how fast this test is,” he said.
As you can see, the diagnosis of venereal diseases is nowadays not only easy but also discreet. This is good news for those for whom a visit to the clinic and laboratory is something that causes discomfort, stress and anxiety. However, it is worth remembering that after obtaining a positive result of the antigen test performed at home, you should immediately see a doctor for help and implementation of pharmacological treatment.