Sexually Transmitted Infections

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  • About the disease
  • About testing
  • Treatment and prevention

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are widespread. Millions of new cases of these infections are reported each year in the U.S. alone. Sexually transmitted diseases are caused by more than 30 different bacteria, viruses and parasites. Infections are mostly spread by sexual contact. Most STIs are asymptomatic or have mild symptoms. STIs, including asymptomatic ones, can cause many complications.

Today for STI testing PCR continues to be the gold standard, which uses a vaginal/urethral swab or urine. Genomics offers a single panel of highly sensitive PCR tests to detect ten causes of STIs:

 Chlamydia trachomatis;
Neisseria gonorrhoeae;
Mycoplasma genitalium;
Trichomonas vaginalis;
Ureaplasma parvum ;
Ureaplasma urealyticum;
Mycoplasma hominis ;
Herpes simplex 1;
Herpes simplex 2;
Treponema pallidum;
Gardnerella vaginalis.

The objectives of STI prevention and treatment to reduce their prevalence, reduce the duration of infection, and prevent the development of complications.

Primary prevention involves raising public awareness about sexually transmitted diseases. This includes raising awareness about safe sex.

Secondary prevention is related to treatment. Apart from HIV and viral infections, it is possible to cure the patient completely of these diseases. Therefore, it will no longer be contagious and the transmission chain of infection will be broken.

Most sexually transmitted diseases are asymptomatic or have mild symptoms. Therefore, a person who has a regular sexual life should be tested for STIs at least once a year.

If diagnosed positively, any infection can be treated and managed with medication, and some are completely curable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should undergo STI screening?

Every sexually active individual should be tested for STDs.

How often is STI screening recommended?

If a person has multiple sexual partners, uses intravenous drugs, or has unprotected (without a condom) sexual intercourse, screening is recommended once every 3-6 months.

A person who has a regular sexual life should be tested for STIs at least once a year.

Are STIs curable?

If diagnosed early, infections can be managed, and some of them are completely curable.