Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) - Overview

Reproductive health has been defined by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as the total well-being in all aspects of reproduction i.e., physical, emotional, behavioural and social. In our country, we have a number of programs aimed at the maintenance of reproductive health. These efforts include creating awareness about the various sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), their causes, mode of transmission and prevention from such diseases.  Here we will discuss some common STDs and how to prevent them.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Venereal diseases which are commonly known as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infectious diseases transmitted through sexual contact. It is also referred by the name reproductive tract infections (RTI). AIDS, Gonorrhea, syphilis, genital herpes and warts, chlamydiosis and hepatitis-B are few commonly known STDs. Bacteria, viruses, and parasites of different strain have contributed their shares. The majority of these diseases develop without showing any symptoms which increase the risk factors, especially in women. Risk factors include infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), abortions, ectopic pregnancies, and in worse conditions, it may even lead to cancer of the reproductive tract. Unusual discharges from genitals, genital ulcers, tumours, itching, etc. are few signs and symptoms of STDs.

Sexually transmitted diseases are the name given collectively to the diseases which spread sexually. However, every STD is not sexually transmitted; they can spread through non-sexual contact also. Non-contact modes include transfusion of contaminated blood and tissue, breastfeeding, sharing of syringes, etc. STDs like AIDS can be passed from the mother to her child during birth, or after birth through breastfeeding. Hence, proper diagnosis and treatment are necessary before its blowout. Medical field researchers have a solution for every STD, while hepatitis-B, genital herpes, and HIV infections stand out of the list. These diseases still baffle them.

Strategies for Prevention

Despite advanced technologies, STDs are still a major threat to the nation. We come across a number of advertisements on the television about various programs promoting safe sexual habits, and awareness about various sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). All these efforts by the government and non-governmental organizations aimed at achieving a reproductively healthy society.

General awareness about STDs is necessary to control further waves. The introduction of sex education is one of the steps taken by the government which aims at creating awareness among adolescents about safe sexual practices. Apart from the awareness and education part, it is also essential to provide proper medical facilities to deal with problems related to STDs.

So let’s conclude that ‘Prevention is better than cure’:

• Avoid unprotected sex
• Avoid sexual contacts with multiple partners
• Consult a qualified doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

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