Sexual infections of women. Methods of transmission of STIs. How do various sexually transmitted infections manifest themselves?

Some diseases (for example, gonorrhea) can be treated with the use of antiseptics. They are inserted into the urethra and vagina.

Washing the genitals with antiseptics allows you to quickly destroy pathogenic bacteria. Within 2 hours of unprotected sex, they can prevent infection.

Can be carried out at home. For this, chlorhexidine, Miramistin, and silver preparations are used.

Antiseptics are injected into the urethra every other day or every day. If in treatment of sexually transmitted infections, deep instillations are used with the introduction of antiseptic substances into the bladder; such procedures are not carried out independently. Medical assistance is required as medications are administered through a catheter.

Sex in the treatment of sexually transmitted infections

Some doctors prescribe to their patients sexual rest in the treatment of infections.

The reasons for this are obvious:

by having sex, you infect other people;
the infection can spread to overlying organs;
you can injure already damaged mucous membranes.

Plus, sex is uncomfortable. The inflamed mucous membrane of the urethra and vagina hurts and sometimes bleeds. An unpleasant-smelling discharge appears, which does not add sexual arousal. But if that kind of sex suits you, you can have it. Just remember to use a condom.

Treatment of sexually transmitted infections during pregnancy

Not all drugs can be used during pregnancy. Some are toxic to the fetus. Therefore, therapy is carried out with the participation of an obstetrician-gynecologist.

Tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones are prohibited for use. Of the antiviral agents, only acyclovir can be used.

Among macrolides during pregnancy for treatment of sexually transmitted infections in women Azithromycin is preferred. For gonorrhea, ceftriaxone is used.

Most penicillins are not toxic to the fetus, as they do not even penetrate the amniotic fluid. Therefore, it can be performed at any stage of pregnancy.

Traditional treatment of sexually transmitted infections

Despite the rapid development of medicine in recent years, traditional methods of treating various diseases are still popular in Russia. Often treatment of sexually transmitted infections, carried out according to “grandmother’s recipes”. There are many ways.

If you believe traditional healers, then there are no plants or food products in the world that could not rid you of trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, chlamydia and other sexually transmitted diseases in a week.

Treatment of sexually transmitted infections in men often involves not only ingesting herbal decoctions, but also rinsing the “manhood” in medicinal baths.

Self-medication usually leads to the following consequences:

spread of infection to the overlying organs of the genitourinary system;
infertility;
chronicity of the pathological process;
complications (abscesses, joint damage, etc.).

As a result, the patient is still forced to see a doctor. But an advanced disease takes longer and is more difficult to treat.

Hospitalization and intensive antibiotic therapy may be required.

Clinic for the treatment of sexually transmitted infections

If you have symptoms of sexually transmitted infections, treatment you can get it from a venereologist in a good private clinic.

Advantages of this approach:

wide diagnostic capabilities – identification and treatment of hidden sexually transmitted infections;
painless smear taking;
affordable prices;
highly qualified doctors;
possibility of maintaining anonymity.

One of the services offered by venereology clinic – treatment of sexually transmitted infections together with a partner. In this case, situations in which infection will occur again are excluded. Therapy is prescribed to both partners simultaneously.

If you suspect sexually transmitted infections, contact competent venereologists.

Sexual infections are a number of infectious diseases that affect the genitourinary system. Most of the list of such diseases is occupied by sexually transmitted diseases (hereinafter referred to as STDs). However, the list of diseases called sexually transmitted infections is more extensive and contains various diseases transmitted in different ways. Genital infections in men have some differences from female diseases. This is due to the fact that the reproductive system, depending on gender, has significant differences. At the first signs of the disease, you should seek medical advice and get tested for sexually transmitted infections. Only a medical specialist can determine which treatment method to choose and prescribe medications. It is possible to cure most sexually transmitted infections; you just need to consult a doctor in a timely manner and begin treatment.

General signs

The symptoms of all sexually transmitted infections in men are quite similar, although there are differences. Sexually transmitted diseases are often asymptomatic in the early stages, but they can be noticed by certain signs. Common symptoms of sexually transmitted infections include:

atypical discharge from the genital organ, changes in its consistency, appearance and smell;
itching;
sharp pain when emptying the bladder;
impurities in the urine: blood, pus and others;
inguinal lymphadenitis;
painful sensations that occur during sexual intercourse and during ejaculation;
nagging pain in the lower abdomen;
atypical pigmentation on the genitals, skin ulcerations, the appearance of rashes, redness, pimples.

Such symptoms are characteristic of all sexually transmitted infections. The degree of their severity depends on the stage, type and severity of the disease.

Symptoms of some sexually transmitted infections in men may not appear for a long time after infection. Therefore, it is important to undergo preventive examinations regularly, at least once a year. If you have been tested and they did not reveal the presence of infections, but there are first signs, then you should take the samples again, since some infections are not detected in the early stages, even by laboratory tests.

Types of sexually transmitted infections and routes of transmission

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A disease that affects the mucous membrane of the penis and organs of the urinary system, transmitted in most cases through sexual contact. The danger of ureaplasmosis lies in the fact that this disease does not have a clear clinical picture and often occurs in the absence of pronounced symptoms. Without experiencing any signs of the disease, the man does not consult a doctor and does not treat the disease, and in the meantime the amount of pathogenic microflora increases, which leads to the development of urethritis (an inflammatory process of the urinary tract). Urethritis manifests itself with more pronounced symptoms, such as a feeling of itching in the genital organ, severe sharp pain when emptying the bladder and discharge with an ammonia odor.

Chlamydia

Chlamydia, entering a man’s body, masters itself within three to five days. After this, pathogenic microorganisms infect the tissues of the epithelium of the genital organs, destroying cellular structures. Symptoms of chlamydia in men include clear, thin discharge from the genitals and sharp pain when emptying the bladder. In the absence of proper treatment, chlamydia causes urethritis, as well as inflammation of other reproductive organs and organs of the urinary system.

Trichomoniasis

It is the most common disease of the reproductive system. In the early stages it occurs without visible manifestations. If left untreated, it leads to the development of infectious prostatitis, urethritis, and cystitis. Very often, trichomoniasis occurs in conjunction with other sexually transmitted infections. The first sign of this disease in men is painful urination. In some cases, itching, irritation, and redness on the skin of the penis may occur.

Mycoplasmosis

A very dangerous infectious disease of bacterial origin. Men, as a rule, are carriers of pathogenic mycoplasmas. The disease is characterized by the absence of pronounced symptoms, but can manifest itself against the background of a weakened immune system or after prolonged stress. Often leads to inflammation of the prostate or testicles. Some types of pathogenic mycoplasmas cause complications in the form of damage to the respiratory tract and lungs.

HIV infection

Today, it is one of the most severe infections, most often transmitted through sexual contact with an infected partner. The main danger of the human immunodeficiency virus is that modern medicine does not have a cure for this disease. There are drugs to suppress the activity of the virus, but it is impossible to destroy it. HIV destroys the cells of a person's immune system and makes him defenseless against bacteria. If a man does not treat the infection or take pills to boost immunity, this leads to the development of the dangerous disease AIDS and death. You can live a full life with HIV infection and even produce offspring who will not show symptoms if you strictly follow the recommendations given by your doctor.

Human papillomavirus

According to WHO, a third of the world's population is currently affected by this virus. Like HIV, it is incurable. Depending on the type of virus and a person’s protective capabilities, papillomavirus can manifest itself with such signs as the appearance of condylomas, papillomas and other neoplasms on the genitals. They subsequently spread throughout the body. The danger of this disease is that neoplasms can be malignant and lead to the development of oncology.

Gonorrhea

Gonococcus affects the mucous membranes and provokes inflammatory processes in the organs of the reproductive system. Spreading deeper into the body, the disease leads to prostatitis and inflammation of the testicles. The first signs of gonorrhea are itching and burning in the penis. Subsequently, pus flows from the male genital organ, in the first stages it can be noticed by pressing on the head, then the pus flows continuously. Gonorrhea is often complicated by a combination of other diseases. The infection affects the male genitourinary system and, in the absence of proper treatment, causes erectile dysfunction, impotence and infertility.

Syphilis

Syphilis is a particularly dangerous infectious disease. It is easy to identify, since, unlike other common sexually transmitted infections, the symptoms of syphilis have pronounced signs from the very beginning. Progressive syphilis leads to dangerous pathologies of the male genital organs, multiple inflammatory processes, and in the absence of timely treatment causes damage to the nervous system and musculoskeletal system. Tertiary syphilis leads to necrosis of soft tissues of various organs. Syphilis also “loves” cartilaginous tissue; everyone has probably heard about a collapsed nose at the last stage of disease progression. In rare cases, advanced syphilis causes necrosis of the tissue of the penis, which leads to amputation of the affected organ.

Genital herpes

The first sign of genital herpes is the appearance of small pimples and blisters on the genitals. Ulcerations and erosions of the skin may then appear. The disease is manifested by burning and itching of the genital organ, swelling, redness of the skin, and inguinal lymphadenitis. In the absence of adequate treatment, it leads to bacterial damage to the external genital organs, a decrease in the immune properties of the affected area and the body as a whole. With advanced genital herpes, diseases that affect the nervous system develop, as well as chronic prostatitis.

In most cases, the above diseases are transmitted sexually. Infectious agents are not able to survive in an open environment, so they are transmitted only through close contact and exchange of fluids between partners. However, some microorganisms, for example, the papilloma virus and Trichomonas, can be transmitted through household means, through shared towels, washcloths, bed or underwear. There are known cases of contracting sexually transmitted infections through poorly sterilized medical instruments or through untested blood transfusions.

Diagnostics

Infections of the genital organs in men are treated by a urologist or venereologist. First, complaints are analyzed and the patient is examined. Due to the fact that the symptoms of various sexually transmitted infections in men are quite similar, the disease can be accurately diagnosed solely on the basis of laboratory tests. The doctor will suggest a general blood and urine test, as well as a specific test for sexually transmitted infections. Bacteriological studies of a smear from the genital organ are also carried out. The most reliable and sensitive diagnostic methods at the moment are PCR tests and bacteriological urine culture. If any sexually transmitted infections (hereinafter referred to as STIs) are detected, the doctor also prescribes a test for hidden infections.

It is necessary to seek medical help immediately after the first symptoms appear. The sooner an accurate diagnosis is made and treatment is started, the greater the chance that the cure will be quick and effective. Advanced sexually transmitted infections lead to the development of severe complications and entail dangerous consequences that manifest themselves over a long period of time.

Treatment of all sexually transmitted infections in men involves complete abstinence from sexual contact during the course of therapy. Most infectious diseases can be successfully treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics. In each specific case, the doctor selects the appropriate drugs for the man to combat the causative agent of the disease. In addition to antibacterial, antifungal, or antiviral therapy, medications may be prescribed to relieve symptoms. Along with the main treatment, a course of immunomodulatory drugs is administered to strengthen the body’s general and local defenses.

Various medications are used to treat sexually transmitted infections; their choice is made by the attending physician; self-medication in such cases is unacceptable. Also, you should not listen to the advice of friends who have suffered from venereal diseases, and do not take the pills that they used to treat them. This can lead to dangerous health consequences, since each case is individual, and treatment should be carried out under the supervision of a doctor.

Complications

In the absence of timely and adequate treatment, sexually transmitted infections cause various complications. Basically, they affect the male sexual sphere, potency and ability to conceive. Often, sexually transmitted infections lead to prostatitis and the development of prostate adenoma. In case of infection of the genitourinary system, the pathogen can penetrate through the ascending pathway into the kidneys and cause renal failure, pyelonephritis, cirrhosis and other serious diseases.

Some infections affect not only the human reproductive system and urinary tract, but can also penetrate other organs. Thus, syphilis, if left untreated, can cause severe organic damage to the brain, leading to the development of mental illness. A disease such as herpes cannot be completely cured and remains with a person forever, periodically reminding itself.

Prevention

The surest method of preventing sexually transmitted infections for men is to avoid unprotected sexual intercourse and maintain an orderly sex life with a regular partner. The most reliable method of protection against sexually transmitted infections remains the use of a condom. It is recommended to use various local postcoital agents that have a suppressive effect on infections. A good means of prevention is to follow the rules of personal hygiene, use individual washcloths and sponges for washing, razors, and separate towels. You should be careful when visiting public baths, swimming pools, and saunas. You can catch an infection by simply sitting on a shelf or sofa without first laying down a sheet or towel.

Some sexually transmitted infections can be protected through vaccination. It is also necessary to undergo regular medical examinations and be tested for the most common infectious agents. Prevention of sexually transmitted infections includes educational conversations in educational institutions, since the main risk group is sexually active youth.

Criminal liability

The legislation of the Russian Federation provides for liability for intentional infection with an STI. Lawyers distinguish two types of intentional infection of a sexual partner: criminal act and criminal inaction. A criminal act is understood as refusing to use protective equipment during sexual contact, and attempting to infect someone through sharing dishes, washcloths, linen, towels and other things. Criminal inaction is understood as a deliberate omission before sexual contact about the presence of a sexually transmitted disease.

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Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can be contracted through many different types of sexual contact. Many STIs have obvious symptoms that make it easy to identify the disease. Other STIs are more difficult to recognize and may have mild or delayed symptoms. In addition to feeling uncomfortable, many STIs can lead to long-term health problems if left untreated. If you think you have an STI, see your doctor to check if you have it.

Steps

Signs of a bacterial STI

Look for possible signs of unusual vaginal or penile discharge. Trichomoniasis, gonorrhea and chlamydia are accompanied by genital discharge. Although it is normal and healthy to have vaginal discharge, an unusual color or smell may indicate a bacterial STI. Discharge from the penis, other than urination and ejaculation, is also a sign of a bacterial STI.

Pay attention to pain during intercourse or pain in the pelvic area. STIs such as chlamydia or trichomoniasis usually cause local or general pain during sexual intercourse. Pain caused by an STI may include discomfort in the pelvic or genital area, or pain when urinating.

In men, STIs are often accompanied by testicular pain, which is not necessarily associated with sexual intercourse or ejaculation.

Pay attention to difficulty or painful urination. Urination may be accompanied by pain and increased temperature in the pelvic area in women or a burning sensation in men. Such signs may indicate chlamydia and other STIs.
Take a closer look at irregular vaginal bleeding. Irregular periods may indicate an STI. This is especially true for chlamydia and gonorrhea. In addition, bacterial infections may cause excessive bleeding during menstruation.
- Please note that chlamydia can be difficult to diagnose because it causes mild symptoms in the early stages. Typically, symptoms do not appear until three weeks after infection.
Pay attention to open sores in the genital area. Painful round sores may indicate herpes and appear 2-3 weeks after infection. Painless, open sores called chancre that appear on the infected area (usually the genitals) may be a sign of syphilis or chancre. Such ulcers usually appear 10–90 days after infection.
- Other symptoms of herpes include high fever, chills, general discomfort (painful condition) and extremely difficulty urinating.
- If syphilis is not treated, the symptoms of the infectious disease worsen: larger, multiple ulcers appear, the patient experiences fatigue, vomiting and high fever, which is accompanied by a rash. There are 4 stages: primary, secondary, latent (latent) and tertiary syphilis. The disease is relatively easy to treat in its primary and secondary forms. If you notice any signs of syphilis, contact your doctor for tests and, if the diagnosis is confirmed, appropriate treatment.
- Symptoms of chancroid include fever, chills, and general discomfort. In addition, some patients experience discharge and difficulty urinating. Over time, the ulcers may burst and their number increases.

Symptoms of a viral STI

Check for small warts or sores in the genital area. With many viral STIs, including genital herpes, small red bumps, blisters, warts, or even open sores may appear on or around the genitals. Typically, these warts and bumps cause itching and a burning sensation.
- If you have recently had oral or anal sex that could cause an oral or anal STI, check for warts and bumps on your lips, mouth, buttocks, and around the anus.
- Herpes may not appear for a long time after infection. Subsequent outbreaks of herpes may be less painful than the first outbreak. An infected person may experience frequent outbreaks of herpes for decades.
- Oral herpes can be contracted through contact with the genitals (or genital area), and after an initial outbreak, this form of herpes usually becomes hidden.
Note the fleshy bumps and blisters. Fleshy, raised lumps and warts on the genital area or mouth may be a sign of genital warts or human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. HPV is a serious STI, but it can be difficult to detect. This infection can cause gray lumps to form on the genitals, which may coalesce and form areas similar to the surface of a cauliflower.
- Although genital warts are not a particularly serious STI, they can cause discomfort and frequent itching.
- Some strains of HPV can increase the risk of cervical cancer. If you suspect that you have HPV, talk to your doctor or gynecologist: you may need to get tested and have gynecological examinations more often.
Pay attention to persistent fever, fatigue, and nausea. Although these signs are common symptoms, they can indicate two serious viral STIs: some strains of hepatitis or the early stages of HIV infection. In the early stages of HIV infection, lymph nodes may also become enlarged and a skin rash may appear. Hepatitis affects the liver and often causes pain in the lower abdomen and dark urine.
- Strains of hepatitis and human immunodeficiency virus can be transmitted through sexual contact. In addition, both diseases can be transmitted through contact with contaminated blood (or other body fluids) or sharing an intravenous needle.

Genital (vaginal) infection, or vaginitis, is an inflammation of the vagina, resulting in abnormal discharge, odor, irritation or itching. Vaginitis is not easy to detect because it has many different causes. To treat itching, discharge and discomfort caused by this infection, women Various over-the-counter products are used.

... cycle. Maintaining hygiene standards, maintaining a hygienic environment, and health education will help limit transmission infections. Infection- this is the introduction of pathogenic microorganisms into the tissues of the host body, their reproduction, as well as the reaction of the tissues...

The most common symptoms of various forms of vaginitis are vaginal discharge, itching and burning. Although the symptoms of these infections can be very similar, there are some differences in the color and smell of the discharge.

Some vaginal discharge is quite normal for women of childbearing age. Normally, the glands of the cervix produce a cleansing mucous secretion, which flows out of the body, mixing with bacteria, separated vaginal cells and the Bartholin gland of the vaginal vestibule. These substances give the mucus a whitish color depending on the amount of mucus, and the discharge turns yellow when exposed to air. There are times during the menstrual cycle when the glands in the cervix produce more mucus than others, depending on the amount of estrogen produced. This is fine.

In women, sexual arousal and emotional stress also affect normal vaginal discharge. Such discharge is a clear substance similar to mucus.

If your discharge has changed in color, for example, turned green, is accompanied by an unpleasant odor, changes in consistency, or has significantly increased or decreased in quantity, then you may be developing a form of vaginitis.

Bacterial vaginosis may cause pathological discharge with an unpleasant odor. Some women have a strong fishy odor, especially after sexual intercourse. The discharge is usually white or gray in color and may be thin. This may be accompanied by a burning sensation when urinating or itching in the vaginal area, often both. Some women have no symptoms of bacterial vaginosis at all.
Yeast infection or candidiasis lead to a thick white-gray “curdy” discharge and are accompanied by itching. There may be severe itching in the genital area. In this case, pain during urination and sexual intercourse is common. Vaginal discharge may not always be present. Men with genital candidiasis may have an itchy rash on the penis. In men, this infection does not cause any symptoms or other infections.
Trichomoniasis is the cause of foamy vaginal discharge, which may be yellow-green or gray, accompanied by itching and irritation in the genital area, burning when urinating, which is often mistaken for a urinary tract infection. During sexual intercourse, discomfort and unpleasant odor may occur. Because trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted disease, symptoms may appear within 4-20 days after sexual intercourse. Symptoms are rare in men, but when they occur, they may include a thin, whitish discharge from the penis, pain, or difficulty urinating.
Pain itself is not a common symptom of vaginal infections, other than itching. But this is a sign that you need to see a doctor.
If you have vulvodynia, it may be accompanied by a burning sensation, sharp pain, irritation, or sores on the genitals, but without infections or skin diseases of the vulva or vagina. The pain may come and go. This is a completely different disease that requires further measures and consultation with a doctor.

When to Seek Medical Help

You should seek medical help if you have pain. Although vaginal infections may cause uncomfortable itching, they are not painful.

Make an appointment with your doctor the first time you experience symptoms of a yeast infection unless you are sure it is a yeast infection. And if you are sure, then you need to undergo a course of treatment with over-the-counter medications. But if your symptoms do not go away after this treatment, you may have a yeast infection.

Although a yeast infection is uncomfortable, it is not a life-threatening condition. But you need to see a doctor. Moreover, seek medical help if you:

Vaginal discharge is yellow and has an unpleasant odor
Abdominal or lower back pain
Nausea or fever
Symptoms return within two months

You should check for other pelvic conditions with similar symptoms by contacting an emergency room doctor. Seek medical attention if the following symptoms occur:

If vaginal discharge is accompanied by fever, nausea or abnormal pain, or if there is blood in the discharge, it is not considered a normal menstrual period - you should go to the emergency room.
If symptoms have not improved after three days, the discharge continues in large quantities or if the initial symptoms have worsened.
You have greenish or heavy discharge or a fever.
You are taking antifungal medications for yeast infections, your skin and eyes have turned yellow (the whites of the eyes), or you have pale stools.
Pathological changes and rashes appear everywhere, that is, painful, red, pus-filled bumps that can spread to the thighs and anus.
I felt dizzy.

Tests for vaginal infections

Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and perform a physical examination. Most likely, you will need to submit urine and smears of discharge for analysis.

You may be asked the following questions:

When did the first symptoms appear? Were there any changes in discharge during the month?
What does this discharge look like? What color and consistency are they? Is there a smell?
Do you have pain, itching or burning?
If you have a sexual partner, does he also complain about discharge from the penis?
How many sexual partners do you have?
Do you use condoms?
What relieves the symptoms of discharge? How often do you take baths? Have you taken over-the-counter medications? Will you douche?
What other symptoms do you have?
What medications do you take for other diseases?
Have you changed the detergents and soaps you use?
Do you often wear tight underwear, trousers or jeans?

During a pelvic exam, the doctor examines the vagina and cervix for discharge and inflammation. During a pelvic examination, your doctor will determine the size and location of your uterus and cervix, and will determine whether you have pain or tenderness to movement of the cervix and uterus or in the area adjacent to it, which corresponds to the fallopian tubes and ovaries.

To examine the cervix, a speculum is inserted into the vagina. To determine whether a woman's infection is fungal (thrush), protozoal (trichomoniasis), or bacterial (bacterial vaginosis), a smear of any discharge is taken. The laboratory then examines a sample of vaginal discharge under a microscope to determine the presence of microorganisms that cause vaginal infections.
In some cases, a Pap test is performed to rule out the possibility of cervical cancer. For this test, a swab is sent to a laboratory and results are available within a week.

You may be prescribed a colposcopy or biopsy if your doctor determines that your cervix is pathological. Colposcopy uses an illuminating microscope to obtain a magnified image of the surface of the cervix. In the case of a biopsy, tissue samples are taken for analysis.
Some blood tests may show antibodies to yeast, an infection that causes Candida white. This test is not very reliable and is only needed if the infection affects the patient's entire body.
If Trichomonas is detected and confirmed by laboratory tests, the doctor may prescribe additional tests to detect other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Treatment of sexually transmitted infections in women

The diagnosis is usually made based on symptoms and the results of urine tests and vaginal microflora cultures, that is, smears examined in the laboratory. Treatment is prescribed based on the type of microorganism causing the infection. Depending on the cause of the infection, your doctor may prescribe vaginal suppositories, antifungal tablets, or antibiotics in tablet or injection form. Treatment varies and depends on the type of vaginitis, the severity, duration and frequency of the infection, and whether you are pregnant.

Treatment at home

Bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis will not go away if you treat yourself with over-the-counter medications. This requires antibiotics. You need to see a doctor.

Only a yeast infection can be treated with over-the-counter medications. If you have never had such an infection and think you may have one, it is important to have a doctor diagnose it before you try self-treatment at home or take over-the-counter medications. Typically, the first case of yeast infection should be treated by a doctor.

If the infection appears for the second time, and you have no doubt that it is a yeast infection, then you can self-treat with over-the-counter medications, for example, miconazole (trade name Monistat, etc.) and vaginal antifungal medications.
Due to the availability of over-the-counter medications, many women self-diagnose that they have a yeast infection. When in fact, about two-thirds of all yeast infection remedies purchased at pharmacies were used by women who did not actually have one. Using medications when they are not needed can lead to infection resistance. Such infections are very difficult to treat with modern drugs. If in doubt, consult your doctor.

Many of today's over-the-counter medications are designed for mild illness. The success rate for treatment with over-the-counter medications is 75%-90%.
The drugs are sold in the forms of vaginal suppositories or creams. They are inserted into the vagina using an applicator, usually every day for a week. Higher dosages can only be used for 1-3 days. Most women can treat a yeast infection at home with the following medications:

Miconazole (Monistat-7, M-Zole)
Tioconazole (Vagistat Vaginal)
Butoconazole (Femstat)
Clotrimazole (Femizol-7, Gyne-Lotrimin)

Introduce these products with massage movements into the vagina and apply to surrounding tissues for 1-7 days, or insert the suppository into the vagina in accordance with the form and instructions. If there is increasing irritation in the area of application, stop taking the drug immediately.
If you are pregnant, consult your doctor before starting to use the drug.
If symptoms continue for more than 1 week, consult your doctor. You may have a more severe form of a yeast infection or another condition that has symptoms similar to those of a yeast infection.

Methods for treating infections in women at home have been used for many years, although scientific research has not confirmed their effectiveness.

Douching with vinegar. Although women douche to cleanse after a menstrual period or sexual intercourse, doctors do not approve of this method. The vagina is designed in such a way that it cleans itself. Douching can also flush out healthy bacteria from the vagina. Trying to treat pathological vaginal discharge with douching can worsen your condition. If your discharge is abnormal, do not douche without telling your doctor and do not douche 24 hours before visiting your doctor.
Eating yogurt that contains live lactobacilli acidophilus or the same bacteria in capsules. Yogurt creates an environment for certain beneficial bacteria to thrive. Despite popular belief, research on the benefits of consuming lactobacillus acidophilus in preventing yeast infections has produced controversial results. The benefits of consuming yoghurt cultures have not been scientifically proven.
Other retail products contain antihistamines or local anesthetics, which only mask symptoms and do not treat infections in women.

Drugs for sexually transmitted infections

Bacterial vaginosis: Your doctor may prescribe the antibiotics metronidazole (Flagyl) or clindamycin (Cleocin). Male partners are not usually treated for this condition. Many women with symptoms of bacterial vaginosis do not seek medical help, and those women who do not have symptoms do not receive treatment. This disease does not go away on its own without treatment.
Yeast infection: If you have a yeast infection for the first time, you should consult your doctor before starting home treatment with over-the-counter medications. Typically, your doctor will recommend the use of vaginal creams and other products more often than oral medications. Pregnant women with this infection are treated longer and under close supervision.

More severe infections require antifungal medications, which are usually taken orally in one dose. This may be fluconazole (Diflucan) or itraconazole (Sporanox). These medications have a treatment success rate of over 80% and can be prescribed for 3-5 days. The drugs may cause liver disorders. Symptoms of the disorder in some cases may include yellow skin and eyes, pale stools. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. He will most likely immediately stop taking the medications, order a blood test, and prescribe a liver function test.
In cases of less severe infection in women, vaginal tablets or creams with an applicator may be prescribed as medications. An example would be nystatin (Mycostatin) with a treatment success rate of about 75% - 80%. The treatment success rate for Micnazole (Monistat-7, M-Zole) and clotrimazole (Micelex, Gyne-Lotrimin) is about 85%-90%.
In some cases, a single dose of the drug has been shown to be effective in treating yeast infections. In other cases, a longer dose of the drug may be prescribed for 3 to 7 days.
If the infection occurs periodically, i.e., more than 4 cases per year, then it may be necessary to use drugs such as fluconazole and itraconazole orally or clotrimazole inserted into the vagina for 6 months.
Pregnant women require a longer course of treatment. It is very important to consult your doctor before starting treatment.

Trichomoniasis: For trichomoniasis, metronidazole is prescribed. It is usually taken in a single dose. Do not drink alcohol while taking this drug because these two substances may cause severe nausea and vomiting in some cases. This drug is prescribed to both partners, even if they do not have symptoms of this disease.

Aftercare

If you are diagnosed with vaginitis, then make sure that the genital area remains clean and dry. Take a shower instead of a bath. This will also prevent future infections. During the course of treatment, do not douche or use feminine hygiene products in the form of aerosols. Avoid sexual intercourse during treatment.

After returning from your doctor, abstain from sexual intercourse until treatment is completed and symptoms have subsided.

Further observation

Ask your doctor for the results of your cervical tests and Pap tests. It is recommended to have a full physical examination every year, regardless of the presence of symptoms.

The chemical balance in the vagina is very sensitive, so it is better to let the vagina cleanse itself on its own. This cleansing process occurs naturally through the secretion of mucus. It is best to clean the outside of the vagina using warm water and mild, unscented soap while taking a bath or shower. Products such as intimate hygiene soaps, powders and sprays are not at all necessary, they can even be harmful.
Douching is washing or cleansing the vagina by squirting water or another solution into the vagina, such as a vinegar solution, baking soda, or a douching solution that can be purchased at the pharmacy. Water or solution is sold in a bottle and injected into the vagina using a special device with a nozzle. Although women in the United States often use douching, doctors do not recommend this procedure for cleansing the vagina. Douching changes the sensitive chemical balance of the vagina, making women more likely to develop vaginal infections. Research shows that women who douche frequently are more likely to develop vaginal infections than those who do not douche at all or do so very rarely.
Douching does not help prevent pregnancy; there is no need to do it after sexual intercourse.

Prevention of sexually transmitted infections in women

The best ways to prevent bacterial vaginosis are not yet known. However, a connection has been established between bacterial vaginosis and a woman’s change of sexual partner or with the presence of several partners. This disease is rarely found in women who have never had sexual intercourse. The main methods of preventing the disease include using condoms, limiting the number of partners, abstaining from douching, and taking all prescribed medications, even if symptoms have disappeared.
In most cases, yeast infections can be easily prevented.

Keep your vagina dry, especially after showering.
After using the toilet, wipe from front to back.
Wear looser cotton underwear.
Change your swimsuit after swimming.
Don't wear skinny jeans or tights.
Pregnant women should consult a doctor immediately if any symptoms appear.
Do not use deodorized tampons; they contain chemical irritants. Do not douche or use feminine hygiene products. Regular bathing is usually sufficient to cleanse the vagina.

Trichomoniasis can also be prevented. If you are diagnosed with this infection, your partner also needs to be examined. He or she may have other sexually transmitted diseases, and there is a possibility of reinfection if the partner is not treated. Safe sex using condoms and counseling about sexually transmitted diseases will help reduce the risk of infection and re-infection.

Forecast for sexually transmitted infections

With proper diagnosis and treatment, all forms of vaginitis usually respond well to treatment, and symptoms will decrease and disappear completely. If symptoms do not go away or return again, you should be re-examined by a doctor.

Bacterial vaginosis is associated with pelvic inflammatory disease, which leads to infertility and ectopic pregnancy. Bacterial vaginosis can lead to premature birth and low birth weight babies. Your doctor will monitor you closely if you are pregnant or if you have already had preterm labor. Bacterial vaginosis poses a risk for gonorrhea and HIV infection.
A connection has been established between trichomoniasis and an increased risk of HIV transmission, as well as with the birth of children with low body weight and premature birth.

Sexually transmitted diseases are infectious, that is, arising due to the introduction of various pathogens. They are broadcast from person to person only contact and mainly during sex.

The generally accepted definition does not raise questions among doctors, but for patients it is better to decipher it point by point:

Pathogens can be bacteria, protozoa, fungi, rickettsiae or viruses. Mixed infection is possible - infection by several types of microorganisms at once.
A sexually transmitted disease is a local and general manifestation of the impact of infection on a person.
For infection, you need a source of infection (the patient or a carrier) and the route through which the pathogens are transmitted. Infection with a sexually transmitted disease is possible if there is:
1. Sexual transmission during any sexual activity (traditional, oral or anal intercourse). Pathogens are transmitted from the skin or mucous membranes of the genitals, anus (anus), lips and oral cavity.
2. Transmission - infection through blood - through transfusion of whole blood, red blood cells; infection from needles or instruments on which the blood of a patient or a carrier of infection remains.
3. Contact and household route: through linen or objects that are contaminated with infectious secretions.

The word “venereal” is associated with the name of Venus, the Roman goddess of love: it emphasizes that diseases are more often transmitted through sexual contact.

What diseases are considered sexually transmitted, their classification

Modern sources provide a list of sexually transmitted infections. The list includes only two dozen diseases. Among them are 5 original venereal diseases:

And a number of STDs, which today are conventionally called “venereal”, based on the sexual route of infection:

, And , , .
Some sources also classify intestinal giardiasis and amebiasis as STDs, although sexual transmission (mainly anal) is not the main route for them.

Sexually transmitted diseases are classified in very different ways:

According to etiological principle(based on the reasons for the development of diseases), ailments are divided into viral, bacterial, fungal, etc.

According to the effect on the body There are genital types of sexually transmitted diseases (for example, gonorrhea, vaginal trichomoniasis), skin types (pediculosis pubis, scabies, condylomas) and those affecting other organs and systems of the human body (viral hepatitis B and C, amoebiasis, AIDS, giardiasis).

In accordance with the age of the description of the signs distinguish between classic, known even before our era, venereal diseases - syphilis, gonorrhea, donovanosis, chancroid and lymphogranuloma venereum (all of them are oral infections), and the so-called new venereal diseases - the rest of the list.

The names of some classic STDs have historical roots: the godfather of gonorrhea was an ancient Roman doctor Galen, who observed the "flow of seed" and used Greek words to describe this feature. The word “syphilis” is associated with a myth according to which the gods, offended by disrespect, punished a shepherd named Syphilus with a genital disease. There was even a poem dedicated to this plot, where the main symptoms were described in detail. A later name is lues ( lues) – translated from Latin means “contagious disease”, and it appeared after the syphilis epidemic in Europe, which lasted about 50 years (late 15th – mid 16th centuries). The names of new STDs are derived from the names of pathogens (trichomoniasis, chlamydia, etc.) and virus serovars (viral hepatitis B and C), main manifestations (scabies, condylomas) or symptom complexes (AIDS).

Prevalence and risk groups

Top lines of the world rankings, including the most common sexually transmitted diseases , Trichomoniasis and chlamydia are firmly occupied: up to 250 million cases are identified annually, and the proportion of those infected is about 15% of the total population of the Earth. They are followed by gonorrhea (100 million “fresh” cases of the disease per year) and syphilis (up to 50 million). The graphical representation of the incidence resembles a wave, the peaks of which occur during times of social change for the worse and the post-war years.

Reasons causing an increase in the incidence of STDs:

Demographic – population growth, an increase in the proportion of young and sexually active people, traditions of early sexual activity.
Progress in the socio-economic sphere - labor migration, tourism development, more free time and money, youth attraction to cities and availability of sexual contacts.
Behavioral norms are changing: more divorces, easy change of sexual partners; women are emancipated, and men are in no hurry to start a family.
Medical reasons - frequent cases of self-medication and the transition of diseases into a latent form; women and men feel safe using condoms and instant STD prevention.
Prevalence of drug addiction and alcoholism.

Traditional risk groups include prostitutes, homeless people, illegal migrants, alcoholics and drug addicts leading a “non-prestigious” lifestyle. However, they are confidently being overtaken by the growing incidence rate among quite successful people: personnel of companies operating abroad; those employed in the tourism business and tourists; sailors, pilots and flight attendants are also included in the list of unreliable STDs.

Incubation period

The appearance of visible changes at the site of infection is the result of the reproduction and vital activity of STD pathogens. A small number of infectious agents can be rebuffed by the immune system and die, and for the development of signs of the disease, the law of the transition of quantity into quality needs to work. Therefore, any infectious diseases have an incubation period - a period of time necessary for the number of pathogens to increase and the first visible symptoms of infection to appear (for STDs - rash, discharge).

Typically, the incubation period figures are given in days, for viral infections - in hours. Incubation time may vary, which is associated with the duration of contact, the amount of a single dose of pathogens, the route of transmission and the state of the immune system of the recipient person. The incubation period (IP) is shortened in elderly and weakened patients, with transmission of pathogens and in patients with immunodeficiency syndrome.

IP for some common sexually transmitted infections (per day):

Chlamydia: 7-21 days;
Trichomoniasis: 7-28 days;
Gonorrhea: 2-10 days;
Urea and mycoplasmosis: 21-35 days;
Syphilis: 21-28 days;
Genital herpes: from 1 to 26, usually 2-10 days;
(pointed): 30-90 days.

The main manifestations of classical venereal diseases

Symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases are divided into primary signs that appear on the skin or mucous membranes at the site of entry of pathogens, and are common associated with their toxic effects on the body. For example, - these are local manifestations of sexually transmitted infections, and fever is a general symptom.

Syphilis

The causative agent of syphilis ( Treponevapallidum, spiral-shaped bacterium or spirochete) is predominantly transmitted through sexual contact. The risk of infection during unprotected sex reaches 30%. In the external environment, spirochetes are unstable; to maintain activity they require certain temperatures and humidity. The mucous membrane of the genital organs, mouth or rectum serves as such an “incubator”. The infection can also be transmitted in utero - to the child from the mother, or through a transfusion of contaminated blood.

Primary a sign of syphilis infection: it appears at the site of direct introduction of treponemes and does not initially cause concern. A compaction appears, then in its place a round ulcer with a hard bottom and raised edges appears. There is no pain, but the chancre can be small in size - from 1 cm in diameter. After a couple of weeks, the lymph nodes, which are located closer to the chancre, enlarge, but they are also painless and do not bother the patient. The chancre heals on its own in 1-1.5 months. after appearance, however, the infection remains in the body and syphilis goes into the secondary period.

Start secondary syphilis is a symmetrical venereal rash ( roseola), which often appears even on the feet and palms. When the rash occurs, the temperature rises and the lymph nodes enlarge throughout the body. Characteristic is the alternation of deterioration and improvement of the general condition - periods of exacerbations and remissions. Among skin manifestations, warts (condylomas lata), which are localized in the perineum and anus, can attract the patient’s attention; Hair loss on the scalp is also noticeable.

syphilitic roseola

Tertiary the period of syphilis is associated with severe internal diseases that develop within several years after infection. If left untreated, about 1/4 of patients die.

Gonorrhea

The causative agent is paired cocci, which under a microscope look like coffee beans, with their concave side facing each other. The name is sonorous - Neisseriagonorrhoeae, given to microbes in honor of their discoverer, venereologist A.L. Neisser. Gonococci are introduced exclusively through the mucous membranes, more often - the genitals, rectum and orally, less often - the eyes (gonoblepharrea of newborns when a child is infected from the mother). The household route of transmission of infection is impossible, because gonococci are very sensitive to temperature and humidity conditions.

in the photo: gonorrheal discharge in men and women

Basicsigns infections - purulent inflammation of the mucous membranes. When transmitted sexually, both partners almost always develop (inflammation of the urethra). Gonorrhea is distinguished by (urination), ; even at rest they can. The discharge during the acute period is profuse and purulent, the color ranges from white to yellow. When transitioning to the chronic form, there is little discharge, they become whitish and thick.

Important: in contrast, with gonorrhea they are often minor, they can be mistaken for a symptom of nonspecific urethritis, cystitis or. Be sure to make an appointment with a doctor if the discharge occurs for more than one cycle and has a putrid odor; if there is bleeding between menstruation; if you “don’t have the strength” and your lower back is constantly aching.

Complications are associated with ascending urogenital infection. In women, gonococci affect the uterus, tubes and ovaries, in men - the testicles, epididymis (), and prostate. The standard result of chronic gonorrhea is adhesions internal organs. If adequate treatment is not received or the immune system has failed, gonococcal infection is possible. sepsis(blood poisoning) with a fatal outcome or the infection spreading to internal organs (liver, heart, brain) and an unclear prognosis for future life. The sad, although not fatal, result of chronic gonorrhea is 100% male and female infertility.

Soft chancre (shacroid)

The causative agent is a bacillus Haemophilusducreyi. The disease is mainly “associated” with countries where there is a warm and humid climate (Africa, Asia, South America); it is rare in European countries. Infection occurs through sexual contact, through anal and oral sex. The chances of getting an infection during one time of unprotected sex are 50 to 50.

differences between soft chancre and hard chancre (syphilitic)

Signsinfection: the primary manifestation is a red spot, indicating the locus of infection. Then a purulent blister appears and turns into an irregularly shaped ulcer, soft and painful. The diameter of the ulcer varies from 3-5 mm to 3-10 cm or more. Then the lymph vessels become inflamed ( lymphangitis), forming painful subcutaneous cords. In men they are palpated on the back of the penis, in women - on the skin of the labia majora and on the pubis. After 7-21 days, inflammation spreads to the lymph nodes ( lymphadenitis); dense buboes appear, which later turn into soft ulcers and open. Complications- swelling of the foreskin, pinching of the glans penis, gangrene of the genitals.

With chancre, skin manifestations are numerous and are at different stages of development: spots, ulcers and scars are visible at the same time.

Lymphogranuloma venereum (inguinal lymphogranulomatosis)

The causative agent of lymphogranuloma venereum - some serotypes Chlamydiatrachomatis. The disease is quite rare in Europe; mainly “imported” infections and cases associated with port cities are recorded. The possibility of becoming infected through everyday life exists, but transmission of the infection mainly occurs through sexual contact.

in the photo: signs of lymphogranulomatosis venereum - inflamed inguinal lymph nodes in women and men

Basicmanifestations: 1-3 weeks after infection, a vesicle appears at the site of chlamydia penetration, which disappears without treatment and may go unnoticed. Then the regional lymph nodes enlarge, merging with each other; the skin over the source of inflammation is purple-violet, palpation causes pain. Next, suppuration occurs, the formations are opened with the flow of yellowish pus.

Complications inguinal lymphogranulomatosis – fistulas anal, scrotum, urethra, recto-vaginal, between the rectum and bladder. Later development is possible elephantiasis genitals due to local lymphostasis, strictures(narrowing) of the rectum and urethra.

in the photo: manifestations of donovanosis on the genitals

Donovanosis (venereal (inguinal) granuloma)

Donovanosis is an exotic disease native to the tropics. The causative agents are callimatobacteria or corpusclesDonovan, they become infected through sexual and household contact. Symptoms develop slowly. It begins with the formation of a red nodule on the skin or mucous membrane of the genitals, mouth, or anus. Then the nodule turns into an ulcer with a velvety bottom and raised edges, the size of the defect increases over time. Strictures urethra, vagina and anus, elephantiasis– main complications of donovanosis.