New Delhi: A Sexually Transmitted Infection is abbreviated as STI and a Sexually Transmitted Disease as STD. STIs result from bacteria, parasites, or viruses which break out in a person’s body due to engaging in sexual activity. Infections, unlike diseases, are typically treatable and have the potential to be resolved. Examples include bacterial vaginosis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and Trichomoniasis. While interacting with News9Live, Dr Seema Jain – Senior Director – Obstetrics and Gynaecology – Max Super Speciality Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, differentiated between STIs and STDs In detail.

When STIs escalate and start presenting with symptoms or complications, STDs emerge. They tend to last for an extended period, if not a person’s life. A few examples of STds are hepatitis, herpes, and Hiv as well as some antibody types of HPV.

Symptoms

Symptoms of STI include:

Burning, itching, or discharge in the genital area

Sores or bumps in the genital region or in the vicinity of the genital region

Bleeding from the rectum

Symptoms of STD include:

Discomfort when engaging in sexual intercourse and during urination

Abnormal menstruation characterized by pain

Increased body temperature

Pain that returns

Lack of energy

Reduction in body mass

Swelling and lumps

STIs’ origins

STIs are often created with a presence of a variety of bacteria, parasites or a virus entering the body. These micro-organisms are made available in fluids such as blood, urine, semen, or saliva which are exchanged during sexual activity (vaginal or anal intercourse, as well as oral sex and other sexual contact). If a STI is left untreated and is able to evolve, pathogens are encouraged to grow and this disrupts the body’s normal functions, leading to STD’s. In a way, all STD’s are developed from STI’s, however, not every STI goes through to becoming a disease.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Different types of blood tests, urine analysis, oral swab, genital/rectal swab or physically examining the patient helps to diagnose STI’s. When any such infection is detected, depending on the type of infection, antibiotic or antiviral medications are prescribed. People are advised to get regular screenings as it aids in detecting sexually transmitted diseases (STIs) in its initial stages. When identified at early stages and treated timely, the chances of the infection developing into severe conditions, including sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), are significantly reduced.

Prevention

Abstinence is said to be the best way in avoiding a STI.

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