Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are often confused with each other, but they aren’t actually the same thing. An infection is when the bacteria, or virus attacks the body before it becomes a disease. An infection may have zero symptoms, while a disease always comes with clear signs and symptoms.

The women’s reproductive system is so delicate and complex that you have to take the most necessary steps to protect it from infections and diseases. Taking care of your health and making healthy choices can help you and your loved ones. Schedule an appointment with the best GYN in Brownsville at Doral Health and Wellness – Women’s Health Center.

STIs are usually passed on from one person to another through sexual contact. Most are common and treatment is available, especially if caught in the early stages.

CHLAMYDIA

Chlamydia is an infection with chlamydia trachomatis. This is a common infection that can spread through anal, vaginal, and oral sex. This condition doesn’t usually cause any symptoms but can result to complications if not treated.

GENITAL HERPES

The herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a common virus that affects the skin, cervix, and genitals. There are two types of HSV: HSV-1, which affects the mouth, and HSV-2, which affects the genital area.

CRABS (pubic lice)

They are usually attached to the pubic hair. But can also affect the hair in the eyebrows, eyelashes, armpits, and beards. They are very small and cannot be seen by the naked eye. Pubic lice can spread through sexual contact, and they can also be transmitted through sharing of towels and bed linens.

TRICHOMONIASIS

Trichomonas vaginalis is the cause of this infection. In women, it affects the vagina. In males, the infection usually develops in the urethra. This condition is transmitted through penetrative sex and vulva-to-vulva contact.

HEPATITIS B

This condition causes long-term infection and can result in liver damage. It can spread through sexual contact, nonsterile equipment for injections, and skin cuts through an object that is infected with the virus. This can also be passed to babies through pregnancy.

HUMAN PAPILLOMAVIRUS (HPV)

HPV is a condition that affects the skin and mucous membranes, such as the throat, cervix anus, and mouth. This condition can lead to genital warts and increases the risk of cervical cancer.

SYPHILIS

Syphilis is an infection with the treponema pallidum. It is a serious infection, but early treatment is necessary to prevent permanent damage. You may notice a round, firm sore at the site of the infection that is usually around the genitals, anus, rectum, or mouth.

GONORRHEA

Gonorrhea is a highly contagious infection that can lead to life-threatening complications if not treated. The bacteria, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, often thrive in warm, moist parts of the body, such as the vagina, penis, mouth, and eye.

HIV

HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system. This condition is also transmitted through sexual contact, sharing of needles, contact with broken skin, and during birth. Once a person is infected with HIV, the virus stays in the person’s bodily fluids, such as semen, blood, breast milk, and vaginal fluids.

CHANCROID

Chancroid is a rare bacterial infection that causes painful sores in the genitals. It can also increase the risk of having HIV.

Many people find it hard to seek treatment for STIs due to the stigma of these diseases. However, these are common health concerns, and seeking early treatment will reduce the risk of complications.

Always practice safe sex to prevent or at least reduce the risk of STIs. Also, it is better that you undergo regular STI testing and communicate openly with your sexual partners before having sex.

At Doral Health and Wellness – Women’s Health Center, we have the best GYN doctor in East New York, and we provide women with quality healthcare services. To schedule an appointment, you can visit us at 1797 Pitkin Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11212, or call us at 1-347-384-5690. You can also visit our website at http://www.gynecologistbrooklyn.com/.