Of the 12 million new STI cases each year in the US, 86% are age 15 to 29.
3 million teenagers contract STIs annually.
40 million are presently infected (1 in 5 persons)
There are over 20 different organisms that cause sexually transmissible infections. Generally they can be categorized according to the type of causitive agent:
Viral infections — genital warts (HPV condyloma) herpes genitalis, HIV
Protozoal infections — trichomoniasis
Fungal infections — candida (yeast)
Parasitic infections — lice, scabies
STIs are spreading because . . .
People are not using latex condoms and dental dams each and every time they have intercourse.
Sexual activity is increasing, especially among young people.
People are not aware of the infections or symptoms.
Sometimes symptoms are absent or not easily noticed so the infection spreads and invades other parts of the body.
Infected persons don’t inform their partners and the infections are spread to others.
Preventing infection — What can you do?
Know your body,.
Know the symptoms of STIs.
Use latex condoms and spermicide with nonoxynol-9 every time you have intercourse.
Communicate with your sexual partner(s).
Be a responsible partner.
If you are sexually active, have medical exams for sexually transmissible infections yearly.
Symptoms to be aware of . . .
Unusual discharge from penis or vagina.
Pain with urination or bowel movement.
Itchiness around sex organs or rectum.
Blisters, warts or sores around sex organs, rectum or mouth.
Persistent fever and/or flu-like symptoms.
Swollen lymph glands.
Spotty bleeding (especially after intercourse).
Unusual menstrual bleeding or cramps.
Lower abdominal pain.
Viral & Bacterial Infections
Viral infections can be treated and “managed” To date there are no cures. (Examples are HPV, herpes, and HIV/AIDS).
Bacterial infections can usually be treated and cured with the use of antibiotics in the proper dosages. (Examples are chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis.)
If you have a bacterial infection it is important to:
Take all your medication as directed.
Abstain from sexual activity during treatment.
You and your sexual partner(s) need to be treated at the same time.
Be aware that you may be treated for more than one infection at the same time.
Have a follow-up exam to be sure that the infection is gone.
Remember that your body does not build immunity to STIs; you can get them again.
REMEMBER:
Symptoms of STIs can be non-existent, mild or severe.
Symptoms are easily missed and/or can be mistaken for other infections.
If you or your partner has symptoms, see a health care provider immediately.
Resources for care:
KSC Health Services
Physicians’ offices
Planned Parenthood
STD Clinic at Hitchcock Clinic, Keene (Tuesdays, 4-8 pm, by appointment)
STD HOTLINE: 1-800-227-8922 (American Social Health Association)
Health Services
