CHLAMYDIA
A very common STD is chlamydia. Most people do not have symptoms. Because of this, chlamydia may not be noticed until it causes severe problems. Left untreated, this infection can cause women and men to become sterile. This means they will not be able to have children.
Symptoms of Chlamydia
- Abnormal vaginal discharge
- Bleeding between periods
- Pain or burning during urination
Treatment
Chlamydia can be treated and cured with antibiotic medications. If you have it, tell your partner right away, and refrain from sex until treatment is completed by you and your partner.
Prevention
Know your partner’s history. Protect yourself by using a latex condom whenever you have sex. It is recommended by the Center for Disease Control that all women under age 27 be screened yearly as most women show no symptoms.
Pregnancy
Untreated chlamydia in a pregnant woman can pass the infection on to the baby. This can cause possible eye, ear, or lung problems. There is also the possibility of a premature delivery.
GONORRHEA
Gonorrhea is a bacterial infection that is transmitted sexually. Many women, and some men, who have gonorrhea do not have any signs or symptoms. If not treated, gonorrhea can cause swollen and painful joints and permanent damages to your reproductive organs. It can also make a man or woman unable to have children.
Symptoms in Women
- Yellow or white discharge (fluid) from the vagina or anus
- Bleeding between periods
Treatment
Gonorrhea can be cured quickly with antibiotics. If you are treated for gonorrhea you will also be treated for chlamydia. If you are being treated, your partner should be checked by a healthcare provider. Do not have sex while you are being treated.
Prevention
As with all STDs, knowing your partner’s sexual history is a big step toward preventing gonorrhea. Know the signs and symptoms of the infection. Use latex condoms to reduce your risk.
Pregnancy
If a pregnant woman has gonorrhea, she can infect the child during birth.
TRICHOMONIASIS
This common STD is caused by infection with a protozoan parasite called trichomonas vaginalis. Although symptoms of the disease vary, most women and men who have the parasite cannot tell they are infected.
Symptoms in Women
- 70% of infected people do not have any signs or symptoms
- Women with trichomoniasis may notice:
-Itching
-Burning
-Redness or soreness of the genitals
-Discomfort with urination
-Thin discharge with an unusual smell
--Discharge can be clear, white, yellowish, or greenish
Treatment
Trichomoniasis can be cured with a single dose of prescription antibiotic medication
Prevention
Using latex condoms correctly every time you have sex will help reduce the risk of getting or spreading trichomoniasis. However, condoms don’t cover everything, and it is possible to get or spread this infection even when using a condom. Talk about your sexual history with a new partner—this will help you make an informed choice about the level of risk you are comfortable taking with your sex life.
Pregnancy
Pregnant women with trichomoniasis are more likely to have their child too early (pre-term delivery).
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