Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) in Human

An STD is a contagious disease that spreads mainly through sexual contact.

Every year in the Netherlands more than 100,000 infections with sexually transmitted infection (STI) instead. Almost all STDs are caused by viruses or bacteria. An STD can spread during sexual contact if it involves contact between mouth, penis, vagina or anus. Pubic lice can also spread through adjacent lie or bedding or towels.

How can you recognize?

If there is one or more of the following characteristics is advisable to contact a physician:

    blisters, sores or warts on or around the genitals or anus
    pain (urination)
    strange discharge (from penis, vagina or anus)
    vaginal bleeding after intercourse or between periods
    itching

Not all STDs have these or other symptoms seen. Women in particular often suffer from less symptoms of STDs. It is important to contact your doctor if you have unprotected sex with someone who (possibly) an STD, even if the symptoms diminished or disappeared.

What are the consequences?

The consequences of STDs are different. It is especially important to treat STIs in time. In later stages, some STDs infections or even infertility.

What is there to do?

Many people are ashamed to go to their (family) doctor to go if they (suspected) to have an STD. Doctors are often faced with patients with an STD and there is no reason for shame.

If you go to the doctor can ask for a urine sample. If necessary he will take a swab sample from the urethra. Addition to certain STDs a blood sample taken. These samples are examined in the laboratory and within fourteen days give you the results of your doctor (or assistant). The local health authorities also often help with research on STD's (see below).

The Regional Public Health Service have a clinic where you are on STD's can be tested.
There are also outpatient clinics of dermatology with special provision for this.

Most STIs are relatively easy to cure (eg an antibiotic or in the case of pubic lice, the hair shaving). Other STDs You never lose when you've once sustained (eg herpes). The symptoms are usually fighting. There are no medicines to cure HIV and AIDS.

The treatment and duration of treatment depends on the STD.