10 Most Common Sexually Transmitted Diseases

What are the top 10 sexually transmitted diseases?

STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) are conditions that people acquire sexually or through physical contact. They are either a result of bacterial or viral infections with accompanying mild to severe symptoms. There are different forms of STDs, and that’s what we will be tackling in this article.

We listed the top 10 sexually transmitted diseases, which are also the most common that all people experience. Consider the list below:

HIV/AIDS

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is one of the many viral infections that focuses on weakening the immune system. This virus attacks the CD4 cells and causes symptoms like skin rashes, fever, headache, sore throat, muscle aches, and swollen lymph glands. Without proper treatment, HIV can progress to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). During this stage, the virus has advanced, and opportunistic infections develop.

HSV

The herpes simplex virus (HSV) causes herpes. It has two strains: oral herpes (HSV-1) and genital herpes (HSV-2). In HSV-1, fever blisters appear on the mouth or around the lips. On the other hand, painful and itchy blisters develop on the genitals when HSV-2 occurs. Although treatment is available for herpes, the virus remains in the system and stays dormant until it reactivates.

HPV

The human papillomavirus (HPV) causes the development of genital warts. Although it occurs to anyone regardless of gender, it is most common in women. The virus spreads through vaginal, oral, and anal sex. Transmission through direct contact with someone who has the virus is also possible. Without proper treatment, HPV can contribute to the development of cervical cancer.

Chlamydia

One of the STDs caused by bacterial infection is Chlamydia. Like HPV, it spreads through vaginal, oral, and anal sex. Its primary symptoms include discharge from the general and painful sensation during urination. Treatment is available for Chlamydia, and this involves antibiotics.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is also a bacterial infection associated with Chlamydia. Its symptoms also include discharge from the genitals and discomfort when urinating. In men, gonorrhea is described as a painful sensation in one testicle. On the other hand, its primary symptom in women includes abdominal or pelvic pain.

Hepatitis B

This disease refers to an inflammation of the liver. It can be both an acute and long-term condition, which is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). The infection transfers from one person to another via unprotected sexual contact. Aside from the availability of treatment, people can prevent HBV through vaccination.

Pubic Lice

Aside from bacterial and viral infections, conditions caused by parasites are also considered sexually transmitted diseases. Pubic Lice are tiny parasites that people acquire through sexual contact. Once they contact someone with the infection, the parasites reside in the pubic hair of the recipient. They are usually located in the genital area and can cause severe discomfort and itchiness.

Syphilis

The Treponema Pallidum is a type of bacteria that causes syphilis. This infection usually spreads through sexual contact. It affects the genitals, rectum, and mouth. Syphilis has different stages. During the primary phase of the disease, sores appear at the spot where the bacteria enter the body. Symptoms become invisible when it reaches the latent stage, but the infection is still present and can last for years.

Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis is an infection that only women experience. However, it is most common in women in their reproductive years. This infection refers to an inflammation of the vagina, which is a result of the overgrowth of the bacteria naturally found in the vaginal area. Its symptoms include discharge, itchiness, and painful urination.

Trichomoniasis

One of the sexually transmitted diseases caused by a parasite is Trichomoniasis. It is common in women, but it can still occur in lesbians who make contact with other’s genitals. Its symptoms include foul-smelling discharge from the vagina, burning and itchy sensation of the vagina, painful urination, and discomfort in the lower stomach region.