Most Common STDs in Women

Most of us are affected by diseases, which spread through physical contact, but most of us do not consider it important to get them checked, due to which they turn into major ailments. Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are infections, which are transmitted through any kind of sexual contact. The organism that causes the disease is transmitted from one person to the other during sex intercourse. Sometimes STDs can be asymptomatic (no symptoms or signs)

Here are some STDs that you should be informed about:

1. Gonorrhoea: Genital infection caused by bacteria is called gonorrhoea, its symptoms include 

• Bloody vaginal discharge
• Painful urination
• Heavy period bleeding
• Anal itching

2. Chlamydia: Bacterial infection in the genital tract is called chlamydia. Chlamydia is usually difficult to diagnose, its symptoms include

• Pain during urination
• Pain in lower abdomen
• Vaginal discharge
• Painful intercourse
• Bleeding between menstrual cycles

3. Syphilis: The bacterium Treponema pallidum causes syphilis,  its symptoms include

• Rashes
• Sores in the mouth, anus or vagina
• In later stages, it causes nerve and organ damage

4. Genital Herpes: The herpes simplex virus (HSV) causes herpes. Signs and symptoms include-

• Small red bumps or ulcers in the anal, genital and other areas
• Itching or pain around the genital area, thighs and buttocks

5. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Genital Warts: Genital warts are caused by HPV. It infects the genital tract. HPV has been linked to cervical cancer,  its symptoms include

• Small swellings in the genital area
• Itching
• Bleeding during sex

6. Chancroid: Chancroid is a bacterial infection. The bacterium Haemophilus ducreyi causes chancroid, its symptoms include

• Development of red bumps on the skin folds covering the genitals
• Pain during urination
• Burning sensation during bowel movement

7. Ectoparasitic Infections: Ectoparasitic infections are caused by small parasitic bugs like mites or lice. The parasites usually affect the hair or skin. Scabies and crabs are common parasites that cause such infections. They both cause intense itching and visible rashes.

8. Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS): The virus that causes AIDS is called HIV. It can spread through blood, vaginal fluids, semen and breast milk. Unprotected sex or sharing needles with an infected person is how the disease spreads. It includes symptoms, such as

• Slight fever
• Fatigue
• Muscle aches
• Weight loss