Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) & Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI)
Welcome to the Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) & Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) section of your G-jali journey, where we provide vital information on STDs & STIs.
Sexually transmitted infections (or STIs) are infections that can be caught or passed on when you have unprotected sex, or close sexual contact, with another person who already has an STI. Some STIs can also be transmitted during pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding and through infected blood or blood products.
STIs can have a range of symptoms, including no symptoms. That’s why sexually transmitted infections may go unnoticed until a person has complications or a partner is diagnosed.
There are several types of STIs including Genital warts, genital herpes, Syphilis, gonorrhoea and chlamydia.
STI symptoms might include:
- Sores or bumps on the genitals or in the oral or rectal area.
- Painful or burning urination.
- Discharge from the penis.
- Unusual or odorous vaginal discharge.
- Unusual vaginal bleeding.
- Pain during sex.
- Sore, swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the groin but sometimes more widespread.
- Lower abdominal pain.
- Fever.
NOTE
- Abstinence is the best way to avoid STIs and HI
- Use a condom for all types of sex to avoid STIs and HIV
- Vaccines can prevent certain STIs like genital warts and hepatitis B
- Reducing the number of sexual partners you have and not mixing alcohol, drugs and sex also means you are less likely to get infected
- If you suspect you have an STI, visit your nearest health facility for diagnosis and treatment
STIs should not be diagnosed yourself by looking at pictures, because symptoms vary from person to person. Only a healthcare professional can diagnose an STI.