Syphilis in Women
Medical Author:
Melissa Conrad Stoppler, MD
Medical Editor: William C. Shiel
Jr., MD, FACP, FACR
What are sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections that can be
transferred from one person to another through any type of sexual contact. STDs
are sometimes referred to as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) since they
involve the transmission of a disease-causing organism from one person to
another during sexual activity. It is important to realize that sexual contact
includes more than just sexual intercourse (vaginal and anal). Sexual contact
includes kissing, oral-genital contact, and the use of sexual "toys," such as
vibrators. STDs probably have been around for thousands of years, but the most
dangerous of these conditions, the
acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), has only been recognized since
1984.
Many STDs are treatable, but effective cures are lacking
for others, such as HIV, HPV, and hepatitis B and C. Even gonorrhea, once easily
cured, has become resistant to many of the older traditional antibiotics. Many
STDs can be present in, and spread by, people who do not have any symptoms of
the condition and have not yet been diagnosed with an STD. Therefore, public awareness and education about these infections and
the methods of preventing them is important.
There really is no such thing as "safe" sex. The only truly effective way to
prevent STDs is abstinence.
Sex in the context of a monogamous relationship wherein neither party is
infected with a STD also is considered "safe." Most people think that kissing is
a safe activity. Unfortunately, syphilis, herpes, and other infections can be
contracted through this relatively simple and apparently harmless act. All other
forms of sexual contact carry some risk.
Condoms are commonly thought
to protect against STDs. Condoms are useful in decreasing the spread of certain
infections, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea; however, they do not fully protect
against other infections such as genital herpes, genital warts, syphilis, and
AIDS. Prevention of the spread of STDs is dependent upon the counseling of
at-risk individuals and the early diagnosis and treatment of infections.
Next: What is syphilis? »
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