The Valentine's Day Gift that Keeps on Giving: STIs!
Becca Boynton & Ada Lambert | February 23, 2023
Had a good Valentine's day? So did sexually transmitted diseases: one in five people has been infected with an STI in their life in the United States. February is the month of love, but that also makes it the month people are most susceptible to spreading and catching infections and diseases.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) — also commonly known as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) — are infections that are spread through sexual contact with an infected person. The symptoms of STIs can vary depending on the type of infection. Some of the most common STIs and their symptoms include:
Chlamydia: This bacterial infection can be easily treated with antibiotics. Symptoms may include discharge from the penis or vagina, painful urination and pain during sex.
Gonorrhea: Another bacterial infection that can be treated with antibiotics. Symptoms can include discharge from the penis or vagina, painful urination and pain during sex.
Syphilis: A bacterial infection that can cause a range of symptoms. In the early stages, symptoms may include a small sore or blister on the genitals or mouth, swollen lymph nodes and a fever. Syphilis goes through four stages: primary, secondary, latent (hidden) and tertiary (late). If left untreated until the tertiary stage, it can lead to more severe complications, such as blindness, dementia and even death.
Herpes: A viral infection that can cause painful sores or blisters on the genitals or mouth. Once contracted, the virus stays in the body and can cause recurring outbreaks. Although lifelong once infected, herpes medication can make it less likely to infect sexual partners and shorten/prevent outbreaks.
Human papillomavirus (HPV): This is a viral infection that can cause genital warts or abnormal cell changes in the cervix, which can lead to cervical cancer.
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV): This viral infection attacks the immune system, leading to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Symptoms may include fever, night sweats and swollen lymph nodes. HIV can be managed with medication, but there is currently no cure.
Trichomoniasis: This parasitic infection can cause vaginal itching, discharge and pain during sex and urination.
Some people with STIs may not experience any symptoms at all. That's why getting regular STI testing is crucial if sexually active.
Getting tested regularly and using protection during sexual activity (such as condoms or dental dams) can reduce the risk of contracting or spreading STIs/STDs. It is also essential to have open and honest communication with sexual partners about one's sexual health status and to seek medical treatment if any symptoms arise.
The best gift to give a sexual partner is the knowledge that all partners are free from sexually transmitted infections and diseases.
Keep you and your sexual partners safe by getting tested. Asheville offers many free or low-cost testing sites that are easily accessible. Western Carolina also has free, confidential HIV, Hepatitis C and Syphilis testing.
Visit Planned Parenthood for more information about STI testing.