| • Overview |
| • STI |
| • RTI |
| • Referral Chart |
| • STI Communication |
| • Safe Guarding |
| • Reproductive System |
| • Risk Rater |
| • Glossary |
| • FAQ's |
| • STI Quiz |
| SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS Amoebic
dysentery,Salmonela & Shigellosis
Like Gonorrhea, Chlamydia infections primarily affect the urethra in men and the cervix in women. There has been a steady increase in the reported cases of chlamydia, particularly among 15 to 25 year olds, and is considered one of the most common STI`s. Chlamydia is now recognized as a major cause of pelvic inflammatory disease which can cause infertility. Symptoms of Chlamydia Chlamydia is a particularly dangerous disease because there are many infected individuals who experience no symptoms. Men who do experience symptoms typically experience watery or milky discharge from the urethra as well as painful urination. Women may also experience symptoms such as discomfort when urinating that becomes more frequent as the condition develops. Women often do not experience any symptoms, and therefore may have a higher propensity to carry the disease untreated. Chlamydia will also increase vaginal discharge and possibly light bleeding between periods. This bleeding may indicate that the infection has spread to the uterus. Anal infection may cause discomfort and produce discharge. If chlamydia is not detected and treated there may be serious complications. Advanced Chlamydia can cause infection of the appendix, heart and liver. In addition, men risk an infection of the epididymis, which may cause infertility. Chlamydia is also a cause of pelvic inflammatory disease in women. However, the symptoms of PID caused by gonorrhea are more severe than those caused by chlamydia and hence diagnosis may be difficult. Causes of Chlamydia? Chlamydia is caused by the bacteria chlamydia trachomatis. This bacteria can only live inside cells therefore a bodily exchange of infected fluids is necessary for transmission. There are certain strains of the bacteria that will infect the cervix and the urethra while other strains cause eye disease. How is Chlamydia treated? The most common treatment for chlamydia is tetracycline that will likely be prescribed for 7 days. Pregnant women may be treated with erythromycin. Regardless, chlamydia has not yet shown resistance to antibiotics, and is therefore fairly treatable. Pregnant women should have follow up tests done if they have failed or forgot to take the pills or had unprotected sex during treatment.
Peduculosis Pubis is the presence of the crab louse in pubic and other hairy parts of the body. This infestation is also referred to as crabs, lice and 'the cooties'. Peduculosis pubis is a problem worldwide with outbreaks in dormitories, military bases and even within families. Pubic lice are small white specks resembling which looks like a tiny white speck against the hair. When examined under a microscope, the peduculosis pubis looks much like a crab with 3 claws and 4 legs. After the crab has bitten the host and fed upon the blood in the capillaries it turns a rust colour. It lives a 30-day lifetime and mates frequently. What are the symptoms? These 'crabs' bite their host that results in the appearance of bluish spots in the genital area. The most common symptom is an itchy genital region. Some may find the 'crabs' not only in their pubic hair but also in eyebrows, eyelashes, their beard and entire body. How are the 'crabs' contracted? The spread of lice is primarily through sexual contact with an infested partner. The crabs can also be transmitted by coming into contact with contaminated bedding, clothing and toilet seats. Crabs can live in wet rags or towels, and are thus sometimes passed within a household or gym. How is the condition treated? The most common treatment is a chemical called gamma benzene hezachloride. Other medications include Kwell and RID. Many are available without a prescription, however it is always best to consult a physician if crabs are identified. Lice found on the eyelids or eyebrows can be removed with tweezers. In addition, it may be advisable to add some Vaseline to the edge of the eyelids to help kill the crabs. For several days after an effective treatment, itching will continue. All clothing or bedding used throughout the infection should be washed in hot water or dry-cleaned.
Genital warts are small lumps, which have an irregular cauliflower-like surface. The colour and shape vary depending on their location. Sometimes the warts cause irritation and itching. What are the symptoms of genital warts? Genital warts are relatively easy to detect; they are small lumps, which appear on the genital area. The vulva and the perineum (area between the vaginal opening and the anus) are the areas most affected in women. They also appear on the vagina, cervix and anus. In men, the warts most often appear on the glans, foreskin and urethral opening. They may also appear on the shaft of the penis, scrotum and anus. (Note: sometimes men have shiny spots called "pearly papules" on the glans which are normal and should not be confused with warts.) Many people may have the virus that causes genital warts but show no symptoms. How are genital warts contracted? The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), a virus similar to the one, which causes warts elsewhere is, what causes genital warts. Intimate contact of moist surfaces is ideal for the transmission of genital warts, which are extremely contagious. About two-thirds of regular partners of someone who has warts will obtain the warts themselves. There does not have to be any physical manifestation of the virus for it to be transmitted. People with weak immune systems will have more widespread infections. The virus is also easily transmitted when the skin or mucous membrane is already injured. How are genital warts treated? The treatment for genital warts is designed to reduce the spread of the warts in the infected person and to possible partners. Treatment can be an arduous process because the warts have a tendency to reappear. Warts which are invisible but detected by a Pap test are usually only treated if the woman has multiple partners. There are several treatments your doctor may recommend/use to remove genital warts Please consult your doctor regarding the treatment that is right for you.
Gonorrhea is one of the most well known STI`s. In the 1980s, rates of gonorrhea were growing steadily, but infections are now becoming less widespread. The disease is caused by the bacteria neisseria gonorrhea that causes inflammation of the glands. It primarily affects the urethra in men and the cervix in women. Gonorrhea is an STI that is both treatable and preventable. What are the symptoms of gonorrhea? The symptoms of gonorrhea depend on what part of the genital area is infected. If the gonorrhea has infected the urethra, a man or woman may experience a burning sensation while urinating and additional discharge from the urethra. The burning may be extremely or mildly painful, and is complicated by the fact the patient may feel the need to urinate more often. The discharge from the urethra may be clear or milky and range in color from white to yellow-green. The groin will sometimes feel swollen and tender. There may, however, be no symptoms present (as in about 50% of women by some accounts) and some individuals may unknowingly infect their partner(s). Gonorrhea can also infect the cervix. In this case most women experience no symptoms. Consequently, many women will experience complications before being aware of their infection. Those who do experience symptoms notice an increased vaginal discharge and some irritation of the vulva. In addition, if the glands of the urethra are infected urination may cause burning. Finally, gonorrhea may cause infections of the mouth and anus. An oral infection normally produces no symptoms. In some cases the patient will experience a sore throat. Like the oral infection, the anal infection often causes no observable symptoms. The infection may, however, cause anal discomfort or itching as well as an anal discharge of pus or blood If gonorrhea is not treated quickly complications may occur. In men the bacteria can spread up the urethra, which affects the prostate, seminal vesicles, Cowper's glands and the epididymis. An abscess will form causing pain, fever and chills. This abscess will eventually drain which releases pus into the urethra or anus. Men may suffer from infertility following gonorrhea if the epididymis is scarred. Women may have problems with infected Bartholin's glands. If the duct is blocked by swelling, a sore will form. The lower part of the vulva will become red on the infected side. If this infection spreads from the Bartholin's glands to the uterus, it is probable that the woman will contract pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). How is gonorrhea contracted? Gonorrhea is an easily contractible disease unless safer sex is practiced. Any form of sexual penetration (oral, anal and vaginal) can transmit gonorrhea. If a man has vaginal intercourse with an infected woman, his chances of catching gonorrhea are from 30-50%. A woman's risk during coitus with an infected man is much higher (60-90%). Other means of catching the disease exist but are not as common. A person with gonorrhea can infect another area of their body by touching the infected area and transferring the excretions. Gonorrhea may also spread in clothing or wash cloths. If a washcloth is used on an infected area and then soon after used by another, infection may occur. Anal infection can occur in women not only from anal intercourse but also from vaginal intercourse. Sometimes infected secretions from the vagina drip down around the anus causing infection. The use of latex condoms and dental dams can help prevent the transmission of the disease. How is gonorrhea treated? Treatment with antibiotics is effective against gonorrhea. Penicillin and tetracycline are commonly used, however some strains of gonorrhea have developed resistance to these treatments Often Chlamydia and gonorrhea occur simultaneously and are treated together.
Hepatitis is a disease that causes inflammation of the liver, and sometimes death. Although there are 4 forms of hepatitis (A, B, C and D), this section will concentrate only on hepatitis A and B, as these are the only forms that are sexually transmitted. Hepatitis A is caused by the virus of the same name. It is transmitted by fecal-oral contact. Hepatitis B is found in blood, saliva, fecal matter and urine. What are the symptoms of hepatitis A and B? Hepatitis A frequently causes a generally ill feeling that includes aches and pains, nausea, and possible vomiting. The whites of the eyes may turn a yellowish color. Feces may turn pale and the urine may become dark. Hepatitis B has many similar symptoms, however patients may also experience a pain in the abdomen. The incubation period can range from 2 weeks to 6 months after the virus has entered the liver. Hepatitis is most contagious during this time, and therefore poses a significant dilemma for prevention. How are hepatitis A and B contracted? Hepatitis A is transmitted in feces, contaminated food and water or through oral-fecal contact. Hepatitis B is contained in blood, feces, saliva and urine. Any sexual practice which involves the use of feces or urine puts one a risk of getting hepatitis A or B. Hepatitis B, however, is especially contagious and can be transmitted through sexual and intimate contact, kissing, sharing a toothbrush and through needles. How are hepatitis A and B treated? Hepatitis A typically heals spontaneously without complications. While there is no medical treatment for Hepatitis B, there is an effective vaccination; one of the only STI`s that has one. You can greatly reduce the risk of contracting hepatitis by using a latex condom for anal intercourse and dental dams for any oral-anal contact. Hepatitis is a serious condition
Herpes is the colloquial term for the generally non-lethal infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. The virus has two separate manifestations; Type 1 (labial herpes) and Types 2 (genital herpes). Labial herpes typically exist around the mouth. This is the virus that causes common cold sores and mouth blisters. Genital herpes generally exists on the genitals. It is important to note that labial herpes can be transmitted to the genitals and vice versa. This section concentrates on the symptoms, causes and treatments for genital herpes. What are the symptoms of genital herpes? From two to twenty days after exposure to the virus, one begins to see the first signs of infection. The first signals, which indicate that one may have herpes, include burning and itching of the genitals. This is quickly followed by the emergence of blisters. The blisters begin as a group of tiny, red, painful spots, which will develop into yellowish blisters, which burst. What remains is a collection of ulcers which are painful to touch but will heal in about 10 days. While the blisters are active, it is common to suffer from a fever, loss of appetite and/or swelling in the genital area. Herpes symptoms and women: Women's experience with herpes is distinctly different from that of men. Due to the different genital structures, women have a larger area (the vulva) that may become infected. Consequently, women may experience more pain than men when urinating. Furthermore, the virus can often be carried into the vagina to infect the cervix. If this occurs, your physician may ask you to have a Pap test done. This is done to protect you because the incidence of cervical cancer is higher in the presence of herpes. Pregnant women should inform their physician immediately. Herpes symptoms and men: The most common location for the blister is on the head of a man's penis. However, the virus can spread to the testicular area. Blisters that are irritated by clothing can cause additional pain. What are the dangers of herpes? The single greatest danger of herpes is that it can affect pregnancy and the newborn child. If herpes blisters are present during childbirth, they pose a serious threat to the health of the baby. To prevent this danger, caesarian sections are often performed during an outbreak. Herpes is also very contagious; more so when the blisters are visible, but can still be contagious when they are not. How are genital herpes contracted? The vast majority of cases are transmitted through intimate contact with the herpes virus. Sexual contact between the genitals is the most common, but oral-genital sex can also transmit the virus. The herpes virus exists in warm damp areas and therefore wet or damp towels could carry the virus, but with less danger. The virus is destroyed by heat so hot tubs are no threat. When assessing how to protect yourself or partner against herpes, you must ensure that the blistered area is covered. While the best solution is to refrain from sex when you or your partner is having an outbreak, you may also use condoms if the blisters are isolated to the genitals. If, however, a woman's vaginal secretions leak outside the area covered by the condom, herpes can spread regardless of protection. The best means of protection are understanding the condition and when it becomes active. See your doctor at the first signs of any kind of rash or discomfort to discern if it is indeed herpes, and what can be done to protect yourself and your partner. How do you treat genital herpes? There is no cure available for herpes and therefore treatment is directed at relieving discomfort and preventing bacterial infection. This can be accomplished by keeping the genital area clean. Prepare a hot bath 2-3 times daily with some salt added to the water. Afterwards it is a good idea to put a small freezer bag on the infected area. Remember to avoid touching the sores and then rubbing your eyes or other parts of the body that are susceptible to infection. Please ensure that you wash your hands immediately after touching the sores. Anti-viral drugs may also be useful in treating herpes. Why does herpes recur? In order to understand why herpes recurs, it is useful to understand why herpes can be treated but not cured. When the virus enters the body during the first infection, it multiplies quickly destroying cells. The body's immune system moves in to combat and kill the virus. Unfortunately, some of the virus escapes and travels up nerve pathways and rests in the nerve cells. The virus may remain inactive for some time but for some unknown reason the virus is reactivated and another problem with herpes develops. If the immune system successfully develops antibodies, then there will not be a recurrence. Normally, the recurrence that does develop is not as severe as the first one.
This is a skin infection, which creates firm flesh-colored bumps that appear on virtually any region of the body, but especially on the genital areas or thighs when transmitted sexually. It is identifiable because the bumps have a sunken center containing a whitish, waxy substance. What are the symptoms of molluscum contagiosum? The symptoms of molluscum contagiosum are easily identifiable. A person who contracts molluscum contagiosum will notice the appearance of firm, doughnut shaped bumps which are about 1/16'' in diameter. When these are sexually transmitted, they are frequently found on the genitals, thighs and buttocks. The lumps remain for months and then disappear. What is the cause of molluscum contagiosum? Molluscum contagiosum is a viral infection habitually caused by close physical contact. However indirect transmission from shared towels and swimming pools can be responsible for infection. The incubation period is normally from several weeks to several months. How is molluscum contagiosum treated? Treatment is done primarily for aesthetic reasons and to prevent the spread of infection. The soft centers of the sores are removed, and the lumps can be frozen, electrified or chemically burned away.
PID is the term for a genital infection that has spread to the internal reproductive organs. The disease is usually a result of an untreated case of gonorrhea or Chlamydia. It can affect the fallopian tubes, ovaries and uterus. If PID is not treated, it may result in sterility, ectopic pregnancy, and chronic pain. What are the symptoms of PID? The infection caused by PID has a wide range of symptoms, which can often be confused with the diseases that typically precede PID; chlamydia or gonorrhea. The symptoms of PID include: pain during intercourse, increased discomfort during menstruation, irregular periods, breakthrough bleeding between periods, and abnormal vaginal discharge. Other symptoms include general illness with fever and/or chills and weight loss. How is PID treated? The infection can only be diagnosed through a pelvic exam. It is recommended as with all sexual health problems that you be as honest as possible with your physician about your sexual history, so that he/she may better diagnose the condition. PID can be treated with antibiotics, bed rest, and sexual abstinence. There may be internal scarring or abscesses that will have to be surgically removed.
Scabies is a non-lethal skin condition caused by a tiny mite called the Sarcoptes scabei. The female mite burrows into the skin and lays eggs, which occur for about a week. These eggs hatch many days later, continuing the cycle of the condition. The incubation period is about 5 weeks until symptoms occur. What are the symptoms of scabies? The most common symptom of scabies is itching. This is particularly felt in the evening after bathing or working out. Scabies can affect the genitals, hands and arms, feet, ankles and buttocks. The mite creates burrows in the skin large enough to see with the naked eye. These burrows may cause a rash around the thighs, armpits or waist. An initial diagnosis can be made with a simple magnifying glass. Put the magnifying glass over the irritated area and search for signs of the burrows in the skin. If you see the burrows, the rash continues for an extended period, or you are unsure as to the cause of the rash and itching, contact your doctor. How are scabies contracted? Scabies can be transmitted to those who are in close contact with an infected person. Transmission can occur between members of the same dwelling. If members of the household come into contact with contaminated clothing, furniture, towels or bed linen the scabies may spread. Sexual contact with an infected person will also cause an infestation to occur. Less common sources of infestation are household pets. How are scabies treated? There are many possible means for treating scabies. Lindane is a popular treatment; although it is not a good treatment for children who have sensitive skin. There are also popular treatments for scabies. Ask your doctor which treatment is right for you. Clothing and bed linen used in the past two weeks should be washed in hot water or dry cleaned.
Syphilis is caused by the bacteria T. pallidum, a spiral shaped organism that moves throughout the body by splitting in two about once every day. The disease begins with a chancre, which normally forms on the genital area. If untreated, this chancre will heal but the disease will progress possibly causing many complications- and in some instances death. Syphilis can now be effectively treated with penicillin or other antibiotics (for those allergic to penicillin). The widespread use of antibiotics has reduced the prevalence of syphilis significantly. What are the symptoms of syphilis? Symptoms of syphilis undergo several stages of development. Throughout these stages, the symptoms felt by the patient vary. i. The Primary Stage: This first stage of syphilis is characterized by a lesion (or chancre), which normally forms around the genital region. In about half of the cases reported the lesion has a raised, firm red border. The chancre is generally a dark pink color and does not bleed easily. It must be stressed that the appearance of this chancre can vary greatly. Furthermore, it is not necessarily a single lesion; multiple lesions may exist but are less common. If the lesion is untreated, it may heal on its own. However, without the attention of a physician the disease will progress. ii. The Secondary Stage: Once the primary lesion has healed, new symptoms will affect the patient. Secondary lesions are likely to form. These lesions are normally on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet but it is possible for them to form in other areas as well. Other symptoms include a sore throat, low-grade fever, headache and a rash. The appearance and location of the rash is highly variable; it does not itch and is not uncomfortable. If left untreated, the secondary lesions will heal and all other symptoms will disappear; this indicates that the disease has evolved into latent syphilis. iii. Latent Syphilis: This third stage of syphilis usually begins from 6 months to 2 years after the initial infection. About 25% of patients may experience a return of some the secondary symptoms. Yet in most cases, the latent stage is asymptomatic. Many may assume that the disease has cured itself and it is therefore sometimes left untreated. Latent syphilis may stay with the patient for life or late syphilis may appear within 2 years of the initial infection. iv. Late Syphilis (also referred to as Tertiary Syphilis): Late syphilis may emerge in any area of the body as late as 30 to 50 years following the initial infection. Around 35% of those who are left untreated will contract late syphilis. Late syphilis may take the forms of late benign syphilis, cardiovascular syphilis and neurosyphilitic disease. A patient may have one or a combination of these forms. The mortality rate for all patients with untreated syphilis is approximately 25%. Although the majority of patients who are left untreated will not develop late syphilis, there is no way to diagnose which patients are at risk. Tertiary Benign or Late Benign Syphilis: Late syphilis is an extremely rare disease in Canada and the United States. Late benign syphilis is the most common form of late syphilis which normally appears 3 to 7 years after initial exposure. Harmful ulcers (called gummas) typically form on or in the affected organs. It may affect the skin, liver, digestive tract, muscles, eyes and endocrine organs. The term "benign" indicates that the ulcers rarely cause physical impairment or death. If a proper treatment by a physician is followed, the gummas will heal and the patient will recover in most cases. Cardiovascular Syphilis: Cardiovascular syphilis is a relatively rare form of syphilis that affects about 10% of all treated patients after 10 to 40 years of untreated syphilis. This form of syphilis results in damage to the heart and major blood vessels, and is therefore often fatal. Neurosyphilitic: Disease Fewer than 10% of all untreated patients will be affected by neurosyphilitc disease. The central nervous system is adversely affected which generally results in paralysis and/or paresis (insanity). How is syphilis contracted? Syphilis can be transmitted to another person during kissing, anal and vaginal intercourse and oral-genital contact. It can enter the body by penetrating the mucous membranes or any small cracks in the skin. Another mode of transmission is to the fetus when the mother is infected with the disease. Syphilis does not survive well outside the body so that non-sexual contractions of the disease are uncommon. Use of a latex condom and dental dam will significantly reduce the risk of contracting syphilis. How is it treated? Syphilis is effectively treated with antibiotics, penicillin the most common. Those who cannot take penicillin will most likely be administered safer variants of penicillin.
This condition is caused by a bacteria, which can be picked up, from the rectum or mouth of a partner. Some experience a discharge accompanied by painful urination, and gonorrhea may be the first diagnosis. NSU does not respond to penicillin and therefore anyone who suspects that they may have it should be tested immediately. What are the symptoms of nonspecific urethritis? The incubation period varies considerably but it is believed to be from one week to one month. The symptoms are usually identical to gonorrhea however the discharge is usually thinner. Please refer to our section on gonorrhea for a more detailed account of the symptoms. If nonspecific urethritis is left untreated, it can cause complications. It can spread to the bladder that will cause pain during urinating and perhaps some bleeding. It may also spread to the testicles that will result in swelling and tenderness. If NSU spreads to the prostate there will be pain in the groin. How is nonspecific Urethritis contracted? Nonspecific urethritis has a variety of causes because it cannot be identified as one disease; it is recognized to be several. There may be perfectly normal microorganisms in a partner's rectum, which will affect the other partner adversely. NSU is not always sexually transmitted and can also appear in a strictly monogamous relationship. Using a latex condom or dental dams for oral-anal contact will significantly reduce the risk of NSU. How is nonspecific urethris treated? Nonspecific urethritis is occasionally mistaken for gonorrhea and treated with penicillin. Penicillin is not an effective treatment for NSU. It must be treated with tetracycline or alternative antibiotics if allergies are a concern.
Vaginitis can best be described as the inflammation of the vulva and vagina. The vagina is exposed to clothing and the environment but has many ways to protect itself. The vaginal lining is lubricated and its cells are being constantly renewed. These discarded cells mixed with secretions from the cervix make up the normal whitish vaginal secretions. The vagina also contains many microorganisms, which exist in balance with each other and protect the vagina. Vaginitis is caused by one-celled protozoa called trichomonas vaginalis. When this biological balance of the vagina is disrupted, it increases the likelihood of contracting vaginitis. What are the symptoms of vaginitis? The most common symptom observed by women is an abounding amount of discharge. This discharge ranges in color from white to yellowish to greenish. When it comes in contact with the vulva, the discharge can cause irritation making the vulva sore and itchy. When urine comes in contact with the irritated area, the patient may experience pain or burning. Many women with vaginitis experience no symptoms. How is vaginitis contracted? Trichomonas vaginalis is the cause of vaginitis. The condition is transmitted during intimate contact with infected vaginal or urethral secretions. Men can carry the protozoa in the urethra or prostate but usually have no symptoms. Transmission is possible between two women if one partner's infected discharge comes in contact with the other partner's vulva. There may be non-sexual transmission because the protozoa can survive in warm, moist areas such as whirlpools and saunas. If you are infected with vagintis it is necessary to avoid vaginal penetration or close contact of vaginal secretions during treatment. Women with vaginitis should also stay out of public baths so that the condition does not spread. Condoms are a means to reduce the risks of infection. It is important to note that not all inflammation of the vagina is caused by vaginitis. Other causes of inflammation include allergic reactions to soaps, perfumed tampons and pads. How is vaginitis treated? The antibiotic is prescribed to treat trichmonas vaginitis. It may have some unpleasant side effects such as nausea and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. |
