Sexually transmitted diseases (STDS) are also called sexually transmitted infections, according to Planned Parenthood. The more common term is STDs, even when there is no sign of disease.
These diseases are spread from one person to another during sexual contact, as the infections that cause them pass from one person to another. Planned Parenthood states that more than half of all people will develop an STD at some point in their lives; however, practicing safe sex can greatly reduce your risk.
Genital Herpes
Genital herpes is a common STD affecting both men and women, according to the Mayo Clinic. Its cause is a specific type of herpes simplex virus--usually HSV-2--and small breaks in your skin or mucous membranes is its means of entry.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) adds that this disease has no or few symptoms, and when these symptoms present themselves, they appear in the form of one or more blisters around the genitals or rectum. Once these blisters break, painful ulcerations or open sores are left in their wake, which may take as long as two to four weeks to heal during the first outbreak.
The CDC goes on to explain that additional outbreaks may occur within weeks or months after the first, but with less severity than the first. And while this disease may remain in your body for an indefinite period of time, the number of outbreaks you experience over the years tend to decline.
You can still participate in sexual activity according to the Mayo Clinic, however proper precautions need to be taken to prevent the spread of this disease.
Chlamydia
Chlamydia is an STD that spreads easily through the genital tract. Its cause is the bacterium, Chlamydia trachomatis, explains the CDC, and this can damage a woman's reproductive organs. The symptoms of chlamydia are usually mild; however, the complications this STD causes are severe. One of these complications includes infertility in women, which happens silently, or before she realizes it is taking place.
The Mayo Clinic states that chlamydia is one of the most common STDs in the Unites States, affecting approximately four million people each year. This includes both men and women; however, it is most prevalent among teens.
This STD is easy to treat, but if left untreated, it can lead to more serious health problems.
Gonorrhea
The bacterium, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, is responsible for gonorrhea, growing and multiplying easily in the warm, moist areas of the reproductive tract in women, including the womb, cervix and fallopian tubes. While this is a sexually-transmitted disease affecting both men and women, it can also be passed on from pregnant women to their unborn babies, affecting the eyes of the newborns, according to the Mayo Clinic.
The CDC estimates that approximately 700,000 Americans contract this disease each year, and while any sexually active person is susceptible, the highest prevalence is among sexually active teens, young adults and African Americans. The best way to protect yourself is to abstain from sex, or to use a condom each time you engage in sexual activity.
Syphilis
Syphilis is the result of the bacteria Treponema pallidum, according to the CDC. It has often been called the "great imitator" because its symptoms mirror those of other STDs, making it difficult to distinguish it from other diseases.
The Mayo Clinic website states that syphilis may begin with painless sores located on your genitals, mouth or other areas of your body, and if left untreated, can cause heart and brain damage. The website also states that approximately two-thirds of new cases occur in men who participate in intercourse with other men, although rates of this disease are also increasing among women.
It is a progressive disease that may cause serious complications, or even death. If caught early it can be treated with antibiotics. However, this STD makes its sufferers more vulnerable to HIV, according to the Mayo Clinic.
