Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a common health concern, affecting millions of people annually. Knowing how to protect yourself, recognizing the symptoms, and understanding the treatment options are key steps in managing your health. At Ovation Obstetrics & Gynecology in Frisco, TX, our team is dedicated to providing expert care and guidance on STIs, helping you stay informed and healthy.
Prevention
Preventing STIs begins with understanding how they spread and practicing safe behaviors:
- Use Protection: Condoms and dental dams act as barriers, reducing the risk of transmission. Even when using protection, remember that some STIs, such as herpes and HPV, can still be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact.
- Get Vaccinated: Vaccinations are available for certain STIs, like HPV and hepatitis B. These vaccines offer effective protection, so discuss vaccination with your healthcare provider.
- Limit Partners and Communicate: Limiting the number of sexual partners can lower your risk, and open communication about sexual health is essential. Consider getting tested before becoming intimate with a new partner.
- Regular Testing: Routine STI screenings are crucial, especially for those who are sexually active. Early detection allows for prompt treatment, reducing the risk of complications and transmission to others.
Symptoms
STIs can present a variety of symptoms, though some infections remain asymptomatic, making regular screenings important:
- Unusual Discharge: Both men and women may notice unusual discharge from the genitals. For women, this could also include changes in vaginal discharge color, odor, or consistency.
- Painful Urination: Discomfort or a burning sensation during urination may indicate an infection.
- Sores or Bumps: Some STIs, like herpes and HPV, may cause sores, warts, or bumps in the genital area or mouth.
- Pelvic or Abdominal Pain: Persistent pain, especially in women, can signify pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which may be a result of untreated chlamydia or gonorrhea.
- Itching and Irritation: Itching or irritation in the genital area could also be a symptom of an STI, such as trichomoniasis.
Some STIs remain asymptomatic for long periods, so getting screened regularly is essential to detect infections that may not show visible signs.
Treatment
Treatment varies depending on the specific STI:
- Antibiotics: Bacterial infections, like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis, are treatable with antibiotics. Completing the full course as prescribed is essential, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.
- Antiviral Medications: Viral STIs, such as herpes and HIV, are managed with antiviral medications. While these infections cannot be cured, antiviral treatment can reduce symptoms and lower the risk of transmission.
- Monitoring and Management: Some infections, like HPV, may resolve on their own, while others, such as HIV, require lifelong monitoring and treatment to manage the virus effectively.
At Ovation Obstetrics & Gynecology, our team provides compassionate care and personalized treatment plans. Whether you need testing, prevention strategies, or guidance on treatment options, we’re here to support your sexual health.
By staying informed and practicing safe behaviors, you can reduce your risk of STIs and maintain your well-being. If you have questions about STI prevention, symptoms, or treatment, contact Ovation Obstetrics & Gynecology in Frisco, TX, to schedule an appointment: https://www.ovationobgyn.com/contact-us/.
Further Reading: CDC – STIs Overview