What are the most common sexually transmitted diseases?

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) represent a major public health problem worldwide, affecting millions of people of all ages each year. These infections can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites, and they are usually transmitted through vaginal, anal, or oral sexual contact. However, some STDs, such as herpes and the human papillomavirus (HPV), can also spread through direct skin-to-skin contact (CDC, 2022).

STDs affect people of all genders and, in many cases, there are no symptoms, which makes it easy for them to be transmitted without the infected individuals knowing. For this reason, early detection and preventative practices are essential to reduce the spread and minimize the impact of these infections on sexual and reproductive health.

Most common sexually transmitted diseases and their symptoms

Below, we describe the most common STDs, including their characteristics, symptoms, and health effects.

Human papillomavirus (HPV)

Human papillomavirus is the most common sexually transmitted infection, with over 200 strains. Most of these strains do not produce symptoms and disappear on their own; however, some are considered “high-risk” and are associated with the development of cervical, oropharyngeal (mouth and throat), and anal cancers (CDC, 2021). It is important to mention that high-risk HPV is not related to all types of throat cancers, but specifically to oropharyngeal cancer.

Symptoms: Low-risk strains of HPV can cause genital warts, while high-risk strains are usually asymptomatic and are only detected through specific screening tests, such as pap smears or HPV DNA tests.

Complications: Without proper treatment, high-risk HPV can cause cellular changes that may lead to cancer.

Prevention: Vaccination is highly effective at preventing high-risk strains of HPV. However, the HPV vaccine does not protect against all strains of the virus, but rather those most commonly associated with the development of cancer and genital warts (WHO, 2022).

In addition, using barrier methods, such as condoms, can reduce the risk of transmission. However, they do not provide complete protection as the virus can be transmitted through contact with uncovered areas of skin.

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that can affect the reproductive organs, rectum, and throat. It is particularly common among adolescents and young adults. Without treatment, chlamydia can have serious consequences, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, which can lead to fertility problems.

Symptoms: In most cases, chlamydia is asymptomatic, making it easy to transmit without knowing. When symptoms do appear, they may include abnormal discharge, burning during urination, abdominal pain, and pain during sexual intercourse.

Complications: If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and ectopic pregnancies. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the embryo implants outside the uterus, usually in one of the fallopian tubes. This type of pregnancy is not viable and has to be terminated as it can pose a serious risk to the mother’s health.

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Prevention: The use of condoms is essential to reduce the risk of chlamydia transmission. Regular testing of sexually active individuals helps detect and treat the infection before it causes complications.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is another common bacterial infection that affects the genitals, rectum, and throat. Like chlamydia, many infected people do not show symptoms, which contributes to its silent spread.

Symptoms: Pain or burning during urination, purulent (pus-like) genital discharge, and in some cases, testicular pain or vaginal bleeding between menstrual periods. In the throat, it may cause pain and discomfort when swallowing.

Complications: Without treatment, gonorrhea can lead to infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, and, in severe cases, infections in the joints and heart. Antibiotic resistance has limited treatment options for gonorrhea in recent years, so individuals need to undergo regular testing and strictly follow medical instructions to prevent antimicrobial resistance (WHO, 2021).

Prevention: In addition to condom use, early treatment is key to avoiding complications.

Genital herpes

Genital herpes is a viral STD caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) and there are two types: HSV-1 and HSV-2. While both can cause genital herpes, HSV-1 is primarily associated with oral herpes.

Symptoms: Painful blisters in the genital, anal, or mouth area, sometimes accompanied by fever, muscle aches, and fatigue. Outbreaks can recur, although their frequency usually decreases over time.

Complications: While not fatal, herpes can cause significant pain and discomfort. Additionally, open sores can increase the risk of contracting other STDs, including HIV.

Prevention: Condoms can reduce, but not eliminate, the risk of transmission. There is no cure for herpes, but antiviral medications help reduce the duration and frequency of outbreaks.

Syphilis

Syphilis is a complex bacterial infection that progresses in stages (primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary). If left untreated, syphilis can cause severe damage to internal organs, especially the heart, brain, and nervous system.

Symptoms: Primary syphilis usually presents as a painless ulcer (chancre) at the site of infection. In the secondary stage, skin rashes and flu-like symptoms may appear. The latent stage is asymptomatic; but, in the tertiary stage, it can cause severe and irreversible complications.

Complications: Untreated syphilis can cause irreversible damage to several organs and increase the risk of HIV transmission.

Prevention: Early treatment with antibiotics can cure syphilis in its initial stages. Condom use helps reduce the risk of transmission.

HIV

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a retrovirus that attacks the immune system which, if left untreated, can progress to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Currently, there is no cure, but antiretroviral treatments have transformed HIV into a manageable chronic condition.

Symptoms: Initial symptoms may include fever, fatigue, and a sore throat, similar to the flu. As the virus progresses, the immune system weakens, leaving the person vulnerable to severe infections and cancers.

Complications: HIV affects quality of life and, without treatment, can lead to potentially life-threatening complications.

Prevention: Strategies to reduce HIV transmission include pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for individuals who may have had recent exposure, and the use of condoms (CDC, 2022).

How to prevent sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)

Prevention of STDs is essential to protect sexual health and reduce the spread of these diseases. Here are some of the most effective preventive measures.

Barrier methods: Internal and external condoms are among the most effective protection methods. Although they do not provide complete protection against infections like HPV or herpes, which can be transmitted through contact with areas not covered by the condom, correct use significantly reduces the risk of transmission.

Regular STD testing: Regular STD testing allows for the detection of infections in the early stages, even when no symptoms are present.

Open communication with your partner: Openly discussing topics such as sexual health history, STD testing, and the use of protection is essential to reduce the risk of transmission and build a relationship based on trust. This communication allows both individuals to establish clear agreements for care and mutual respect, creating a safe environment where they can express their concerns and make informed decisions about their well-being. By doing so, it also opens the door to enjoying sexuality in a full, free, and responsible way.

What to do if you show symptoms of an STD?

If you experience symptoms such as unusual discharge, sores, burning during urination, or fever, it is important to see a health-care professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Conclusion

Prevention and proper management of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are essential for protecting your sexual health and avoiding serious complications.

Knowing the symptoms of STDs and understanding how they are transmitted is the first step in taking care of ourselves and those around us. It is important to remember that many STDs can be asymptomatic, making it even more crucial to undergo regular testing and maintain open and honest communication with sexual partners.

If you experience any symptoms or have concerns about possible exposure, seeking help from a health-care professional is the safest decision. STDs are treatable and, in many cases, curable when detected early.

Sexual health is an integral part of our overall well-being. Being informed, taking preventative measures, and acting responsibly are essential for building a healthier society free from stigma.