Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs): Overview, symptoms and treatment
Sexually transmitted diseases—also known as STDs—are among the most common infectious diseases worldwide. Many of these conditions initially cause no symptoms and are therefore often detected only at a late stage. However, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to avoiding serious complications and preventing transmission to a partner.
At UROMED, we offer discreet examinations and tests for all common sexually transmitted diseases.
HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
HPV viruses infect skin and mucous membrane cells and can trigger uncontrolled cell growth. Most HPV infections are harmless and manifest as genital warts in the genital or anal area. However, certain HPV types can also cause cancer, including cervical cancer and penile cancer.
- Transmission: Skin-to-skin contact, especially during sexual intercourse
- Symptoms: Warts in the genital area, often asymptomatic
- Treatment: Various topical and surgical procedures; high risk of recurrence
- Prevention: HPV vaccination reduces the risk of disease by up to 90%
Genital herpes
Genital herpes is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases and is caused by the herpes simplex virus.
- Transmission: Exclusively through unprotected sexual intercourse or close mucosal contact
- Symptoms: Painful, itchy skin blisters in the genital area; occasional swelling of the genital organs
- Special feature: Once infected, the virus remains in the body for life and can lead to recurring outbreaks
- Treatment: Antiviral medications can alleviate symptoms and reduce the frequency of outbreaks
HIV/AIDS
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) damages the immune system and, if left untreated, can lead to the immune deficiency disease AIDS.
- Transmission: Through the exchange of bodily fluids—blood, semen, vaginal secretions, or breast milk; even a single unprotected contact can be sufficient
- Symptoms: Often flu-like symptoms at first, then symptom-free for years; without treatment, progressive immune deficiency
- Treatment: Modern antiretroviral combination therapies allow for a nearly normal life, but a complete cure is not yet possible
- Prevention: Consistent use of condoms is the most effective protection
Hepatitis B
The hepatitis B virus (HBV) causes liver inflammation and can become chronic.
- Transmission: Similar to HIV, via bodily fluids, particularly blood and semen
- Symptoms: Yellowing of the skin, fatigue, nausea; however, it can also be asymptomatic
- Treatment: Antiviral medications for chronic cases
- Prevention: An effective vaccine is available and is generally recommended
Gonorrhea and Chlamydia
Both infections are among the most common bacterial sexually transmitted diseases and are transmitted through unprotected sexual contact.
Symptoms in men
- Burning pain when urinating
- Yellowish, mucous discharge from the urethra
- Inflammation of the prostate
Symptoms in women
- Foul-smelling discharge
- Mild burning sensation when urinating
- Painful inflammation of the uterine lining or fallopian tubes
Important
Without timely treatment, both conditions can lead to infertility—in men due to narrowing of the urethra and prostate damage, and in women due to inflammation of the fallopian tubes. All sexual partners must be informed and treated as well.
Syphilis (Lues)
Syphilis is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum and progresses through several stages.
- Transmission: Any mucosal contact can lead to infection
- Symptoms: In the early stage, painless sores at the site of entry and swollen lymph nodes; without treatment, the disease can become chronic and cause severe organ damage
- Treatment: Easily treatable with antibiotics (penicillin), especially in the early stages
When should you get tested?
If you have had unprotected sex, belong to a high-risk group, or notice symptoms, prompt testing is recommended. At UROMED, we perform all necessary tests discreetly and professionally.
