Question

Different types of sexually transmitted, diseases are viral-Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS); bacterial-syphilis. gonorhoea etc. AIDS can be transmitted from an infected to a healthy person through contaminated needles, razors and syringes, through unprotected sex, from infected pregnant mother to her child during delivery. If a woman is using a copper-T, it will not help in protecting her from sexually transmitted diseases as it is only a contraceptive; it will prevent pregnancy.

(i) How can one prevent AIDS- Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome?

Answer 1

Sexually transmitted diseases

1. Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are also called sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are infections transmitted from person to person by sexual contact.
2. These diseases can also be transmitted by exchanging body fluids between infected and non-infected people. For example, blood transfusion.
3. Some examples of STDs are HIV/AIDS (Human immunodeficiency virus infection/acquired immune deficiency syndrome), genital herpes, syphilis, and hepatitis.

AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome)

1. It is an STD caused by HIV (Human immunodeficiency virus).
2. This STD weakens the hosts' immune system, thus making them susceptible and vulnerable to other infections.
3. There is no permanent cure for AIDS, but the symptoms can be suppressed if detected on time.

Prevention of AIDS

1. The use of mechanical/barrier contraceptive methods like condoms can prevent the transmission of HIV during sexual intercourse.
2. Use of new and disinfected syringes for blood transfusion.