Sexually Transmitted Diseases/Infections (STDs/STIs) are a major issue for anyone who is sexually active - some are non-curable and some even lethal! This section contains information on viruses or bacteria that are spread by, or a direct or indirect consequence of, having sexual relations with other individuals.

If you have any symptoms or believe you might have an STD, please see a physician immediately. A medical doctor will be able to diagnose your condition, give you accurate information, and prescribe correct medication to deal with any problem you may have. For information on what to expect when you go for a check-up please read the STD Testing article in the Sexual Health section.

AIDS & HIV - A debilitating and distressing infection that continues to spread across all social groups, killing millions world-wide.

Chancroid - A sometimes difficult-to-diagnose bacterial infection, with numerous (sometimes painful) symptoms; effective treatment with antibiotics.

Chlamydia - A very common STD, but often with no symptoms - so quite sinister because if left untreated it can cause infertility in women.

CMV (Cytomegalovirus) - A member of the Herpes Virus group, it infects the majority of adults by age 40 and is also the virus most frequently transmitted to a child before birth.

Crabs - Pubic lice found in the genital area of humans. Usually (but not always) transmitted through sexual contact. Not the same as head lice!

Genital Warts (HPV) - Extremely contagious and is transmitted mostly through intimate contact of moist surfaces (i.e., oral sex, vaginal intercourse, etc.).

Gonorrhea

Men usually have the symptoms of urethritis, burning on urination, and penile discharge. Women often have no symptoms and so go undiagnosed!

Herpes - Millions suffer with genital herpes, even more with labial herpes (cold sores) affecting lips/mouth/face. Both are highly contagious but the first is an STD.

Molluscum Contagiosum - Mainly seen in children. In teenagers/ adults it is sexually transmitted and considered an STD. A benign disorder that usually clears up by itself.

PID (Pelvic Inflammatory) - An infection of the uterus, fallopian tubes & other reproductive organs. A common & serious complication of some STDs, especially gonorrhea & chlamydia.

Scabies - An infestation by the itch mite that burrows into the skin to produce intense itching that tends to be worse at night. Not always spread as an STD.

Syphilis - A multi-stage infection caused by a microscopic organism; often called "the great imitator" because symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.

Trichomoniasis - Most common curable STD in sexually active women. Affects both sexes, but symptoms more common in women. Men with no symptoms can be carriers!

Yeast Infections - Extreme irritation in/around the vagina caused by fungus imbalance. 75% of adult women have had at least once in their lifetime. Not usually an STD.

b careful ppl

-- Edited by Ambassidah at 15:48, 2008-04-16