160 likes | 443 Views
What Are STIs?. Sexually transmitted infections-infections that are spread from person to person through sexual contact. Knowing the causes and symptoms of STIs can help keep you safe . Go over 12.6 on page 346. Common STIs.
E N D
What Are STIs? • Sexually transmitted infections-infections that are spread from person to person through sexual contact. • Knowing the causes and symptoms of STIs can help keep you safe . • Go over 12.6 on page 346.
Common STIs • Chlamydia-a bacterial STI that may affect the reproductive organs, urethra and anus. • Symptoms are not present in many cases but can include a genital discharge and a burning sensation during urination. • If left untreated Chlamydia can cause pelvic pain, infertility and other infections. • Chlamydia can be treated with antibiotics.
Common STIs • Genital warts-growths or bumps in the genital area caused by certain types of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). • Most common STI in the US. • People often pass it on to others because symptoms do not develop until long after they have been exposed. • There is no cure, but can be treated. • Has been linked to cervical cancer.
Common STIs • Genital herpes-a viral STI that produces painful blisters in the genital area. • The virus may remain inactive in the body causing no symptoms. • Some people have periodic outbreaks of blisters or sores. • Herpes can be transmitted to others whether or not symptoms are present. • There is no cure but medicine can relieve symptoms.
Common STIs • Gonorrhea-a bacterial STI that affects the mucous membranes of the body, particularly in the genital area. • Symptoms include a thick, yellow discharge from the genitals and burning during urination. • If left untreated it can cause sterility in men and infertility in women. • Can be treated with antibiotics.
Common STIs • Syphilis-a bacterial STI that can affect many parts of the body. • Symptoms vary but could be a painless sore at the site where infection entered the body and swollen lymph glands in the genital area. • If left untreated syphilis may cause brain damage, heart disease, and death. • If treated early syphilis can be cured with antibiotics.
Common STIs • Hepatitis B-a liver disease that can be transmitted through sexual contact. • It is the only STI that there is a vaccine available.
HIV and AIDS • Human immunodeficiency virus-is the virus that causes AIDS • Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome-a deadly disease that interferes with the body’s ability to fight infection. • May not show any signs for a long time. 10 years. • During that time the virus damages the immune system. • Eventually the body is too weak to fight infections and diseases.
The Spread of HIV • Having any form of sexual intercourse with an infected person. • HIV circulates in the bloodstream and body fluids such as semen and vaginal fluid. • Avoiding sexual intercourse is the only sure way to protect yourself against this method of transmission.
The Spread of HIV • Using a contaminated needle. • A drop of blood left on a needle can transmit the virus. • To protect yourself • Avoid injecting drugs. • Be sure that any procedure involving needles or blood is performed by a health care professional.
The Spread of HIV • Other modes of transmission. • Blood transfusions. • Vary rare, most infections occurred before 1985. • Birth, from mother to child. • Breast feeding after birth.
How HIV Is Not Spread • HIV is not spread by • Swimming in the same pool • Sharing utensils • Through the air • Donating blood • Hugging/shaking hands • Bites from insects • Using same clothes, towel, sports equipment • Using same phone, shower, toilet, drinking fountain
Battling AIDS • Combinations of powerful drugs can dramatically reduce HIV levels in the blood and prolong the life expectancy of HIV infected patients. • Some drugs can help control infections in people with AIDS. • These drugs have serious side effects and don’t work for everyone. • They are also very expensive.
Abstinence Before Marriage • The only sure way to protect your self from the consequences of sexual activity is abstinence. • Benefits of abstinence • Pregnancy and STIs • Respect for yourself • Enjoy being young • Focus on long-term goals • Make sure that relationship is built on shared interest and mutual trust rather than sexual attraction.