Self-treatment of venereal diseases. Treatment of venereal diseases. Features of the treatment of sexually transmitted diseases

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:

1. Demographic – population growth, an increase in the proportion of young and sexually active people, traditions of early sexual activity.
2. Progress in the socio-economic sphere - labor migration, tourism development, more free time and money, youth attraction to cities and availability of sexual contacts.
3. Behavioral norms are changing: more divorces, easy change of sexual partners; women are emancipated, and men are in no hurry to start a family.
4. 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.
5. 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 later 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.

Signs of infection with new STDs

photo: typical discharge from chlamydia

Chlamydia

Primary signs of infection atmen– urethritis with characteristic morning discharge in the form of a transparent drop. Uwomen– urethritis, inflammation of the cervix with scanty and cloudy secretions, associated pain and acyclic bleeding. Transmission of the infection is possible only through sexual contact; oral transmission is unlikely. Impossible become infected through contact and household contact (through pool water, toilet seats, bathhouses or bed linen.). Newborns can get chlamydial conjunctivitis or pneumonia from their mother during childbirth.

Trichomoniasis

The infection is transmitted sexually or by everyday means(the only one of the sexually transmitted diseases! although such cases are extremely rare), oral and anal infections are uncommon. In men, symptoms of urethritis and colpitis prevail, in women – colpitis. Trichomoniasis is characterized by yellowish, profuse, foamy discharge with an unpleasant odor, itching in the perineal area, pain during sexual intercourse and when urinating.

Mycoplasmosis

“sexual” types of mycoplasmas

Mycoplasmas occupy an intermediate position between bacteria and viruses and can live in the body of humans, animals and even plants. Capable of multiplying on the mucous membranes of the mouth and pharynx, and organs of the genitourinary tract. Often detected in healthy people, up to 50% of women are carriers of mycoplasmas. Mycoplasmahominis And M. genitalium are the cause of the development of urethritis in men, and bacterial vaginosis in women ( gardnerellosis), inflammation of the fallopian tubes and ovaries. Mycoplasma pyelonephritis may also develop. Infection occurs through sexual contact; transmission of the infection is unlikely through household contact.

Ureaplasmosis

Pathogens – Ureaplasmaparvum And U. urealyticum, causing urethritis in men and inflammation of the uterus and ovaries in women. Urolithiasis develops as a complication; spontaneous abortion or early birth is possible during pregnancy. Many completely healthy people become carriers of the infection; more often these are women.

Genital herpes

The causative agent is the herpes simplex virus ( Herpessimplex); Sexual transmission occurs through oral, anal and genital contact. Household spread of this virus is unlikely. The first sign of the disease is a painful spotty-bubble rash at the site of virus introduction; the patient feels sharp pain and burning, local swelling increases. At the same time, the general condition worsens, the temperature rises and a headache begins. The bubbles transform into erosions, from which a yellowish liquid is released. After 5-7 days, the erosions heal, leaving pigmentation. Relapse of the disease or reinfection is always possible.

HPV (human papillomavirus)

HPV causes a spectrum of different skin lesions, including pointedcondylomas. The cause is sexually transmitted infection, including oral infection, with HPV serotypes 6 and 11. Epithelial outgrowths resembling cockscombs form on the genitals. Formations can merge and increase in size. In women, genital warts are most often found in the vulva and vagina, in men - on the penis and inner leaf. preputium(foreskin). Warty growths are possible in the corners of the lips and on the tongue.

skin manifestations of papillomavirus infection - papillomas

Candidiasis (thrush)

Candidiasis is the result of rapid proliferation of fungi (genus Candida), which are normally always present in healthy people on the mucous membranes of the mouth, urogenital and intestinal tracts. It is classified as a sexually transmitted disease due to the possible sexual transmission and skin manifestations that are often observed in the genital area. Candidiasis can develop after treatment with antibiotics and corticosteroids (prednisolone, dexamethasone), with diabetes, AIDS, after prolonged stress, in the third trimester of pregnancy. Symptomsgenital candidiasis in women - curdled, sour-smelling vaginal discharge, pain when urinating and during sexual intercourse. In men, a whitish coating is visible on the head of the penis, pain is present during miction and after sexual intercourse.

Laboratory diagnostics

Laboratory examination using various techniques is the basis for diagnosing sexually transmitted diseases. Previously, preference was given visualidentification of pathogens, performing (cervix, vagina, urethra, rectum, pharynx) followed by microscopy. The technique is quite accurate, but the result takes at least a week, and the loss of time is a serious problem for the attending physician and the patient.

It is done quickly, the method is inexpensive and simple. The discharge is taken with a sterile swab: in men - from the urethra, in women - from three standard points (urethra, vestibule of the vagina, cervix). The material is then applied to a glass slide, stained, and examined under a microscope. You can determine the degree of inflammation by the number of leukocytes and evaluate the qualitative composition of the microflora. Viruses cannot be seen with light microscopy.

Modern diagnostic options in venereology - PIF analyzes ( straightimmunofluorescence), (immunoenzyme). The material is secretions; the doctor receives the examination results within a few hours. The methods are cheap and widely available, but the accuracy is disappointing - only up to 70%. Therefore, these tests are used for preliminary diagnosis.

The final diagnosis is made based on the results, which means “ polymerasechain reaction"or a DNA test for the pathogen. The material is excretions and urine, the time to obtain the analysis result is up to 2 days, the accuracy is up to 95%. Preferably PCR is used to determine. In case of acute purulent inflammation, it is recommended to do PIF, ELISA, and culture.

(material – venous blood) indicates that there is an immune response to the presence of this pathogen, i.e. infection is determined by indirect signs and is not detected directly. Mainly used to determine viral diseases (genital herpes, HIV, viral hepatitis, cytomegalovirus) and syphilis. Antibodiesto bacteria remain in the blood for a long time; they are present even after complete recovery, which is why this method is never used to test for bacterial venereological diseases, chlamydia and ureaplasmosis.

Treatment

Treatment for bacterial STDs is carried out antibiotics, additionally including local procedures (urethral instillations), immunotherapy and physiotherapy. For combined infections (gonorrhea and chlamydia, syphilis and gonorrhea), drugs are used that act simultaneously on several pathogens. Viral infections (HIV, hepatitis B or C virus, herpes simplex virus) are treated with special agents, and antibiotics are prescribed only for accompanying complications caused by bacteria. It should be remembered that antibiotics do not work on viruses!

• Treatment acuteuncomplicated gonorrhea: tablets cefixime, ofloxacin (0.4 g once) or ciprofloxacin (0.5 g once).
• Chlamydia: doxycycline tablets 0.1 g x 1, or azithromycin 0.1 x 2, course 1 week.
• Soft chancre: once - azithromycin tablet. 1.0 g, or ciprofloxacin tab. 0.5 g x 2 courses for 3 days, or erythromycin tab. 0.5 g x 4 – course 1 week.
• Venereallymphogranulomatosis: tab. doxycycline (0.1 g x 2, course 3 weeks) or erythromycin (tablet 0.5 g x 4, course 1 week).
• Donovanosis: trimethoprim (0.16 g x 2) or doxycycline (0.1 g x 2), course up to 3 months.
• Ureaplasmosis: azithromycin tab. 1.0 g once, or doxycycline (tablet 0.1 g x 2, course 1 week).
• Candidiasis: for skin lesions - clotrimazole cream, twice a day, course 5-7 days. Orally – fluconazole tablets, 50-100 mg per day, course 5-7 days. For women - vaginal suppositories (clotrimazole, isoconazole). Suppositories betadine, polzhinax, terzhinan are considered ineffective against candidiasis, and can also cause vaginal dysbiosis and, as a result, the development of gardnerellosis.
• Herpetic rashes in the genital area: antiviral agents (acyclovir, Valtrex, farmciclovir). Oral and intravenous administration of the solution is more effective than local use in the form of ointments or creams. It is impossible to completely get rid of the herpes simplex virus; symptoms reappear when there are problems with the immune system (stress, acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections, AIDS).
• Condylomas acuminata removed (laser, cryotherapy, electrocoagulation), interferon injections are prescribed at the base of each wart. Antivirus pharma. the remedies are ineffective. Approximately a third of patients recover without treatment within 1-3 months; 25% experience a relapse after therapy or removal of genital warts.

Prevention of STDs

Spermicidal drugs (contraceptin, pharmatex) have not undergone clinical trials regarding protection against STDs, therefore their use as a means of prevention is not recommended.

The only and guaranteed way not to get sexually transmitted infections is a traditional monogamous relationship, a happy life with one partner.

Video: sexually transmitted diseases – “Health Expert”

In most cases, the symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases manifest themselves with typical signs. A person infected with a sexually transmitted disease often experiences pain when urinating , A urge to urinate become more frequent . Signs of sexually transmitted diseases also include: genital discharge and them redness . Depending on the disease, the discharge may be mucous and foamy, white or greenish. The discharge can sometimes have an unpleasant odor. Often due to irritation occurs itching in the groin area . The patient sometimes body temperature rises . Venereal diseases in men cause pain in the scrotum , later spreading to the lower back and sacrum.

Other symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases appear depending on the type of illness.

However, quite often sexually transmitted diseases in men and women occur without any symptoms at all. It is during the latent course of this type of disease that experts consider them to be the most dangerous, because due to the lack of adequate therapy, latent infections can become chronic.

At x chronic venereal diseases Local complications may also occur (, inflammation of the uterus and appendages in women, in men), and have a negative impact on the condition of the body as a whole. Protracted, chronic diseases can provoke the occurrence of diseases of the cardiovascular system , adrenal dysfunction , and a number of other serious diseases. When a sexually transmitted disease develops in the body, the immune system is noticeably overstrained. After the weakening of the immune system, all internal organs begin to work less smoothly; accordingly, the body can no longer effectively fight the negative effects of a number of factors. Therefore, ordinary hypothermia, attack viruses And bacteria .

Diagnosis of sexually transmitted diseases

First of all, for a high-quality diagnosis of sexually transmitted diseases, you should immediately contact specialists at the first suspicion of signs of sexually transmitted diseases. As a rule, the symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases are similar, but they are caused by different pathogens. Accordingly, such ailments appear a certain time after the infection occurs. Diagnosis of such diseases is a complex process, so even an experienced specialist must approach the diagnosis very carefully. Laboratory tests are mandatory, with the help of which it is possible to identify the causative agent of the infection and prescribe the most effective treatment.

Several types of tests for sexually transmitted diseases are carried out in laboratory conditions. Using microscopic analysis of a smear from the vagina, urethra, or cervical canal, the presence in the patient’s body is determined trichomonas And gonococci . Also, in some cases, such analyzes determine ureaplasma And chlamydia . This analysis is carried out very quickly, but its information content is relatively low.

If the situation is controversial, the patient is prescribed a blood test for sexually transmitted diseases. This analysis allows you to monitor the development of pathology.

With the help of tests for sexually transmitted diseases - cultures - the pathogen is determined with high accuracy. Sowing also makes it possible to determine how susceptible the pathogen is to . It is bacteriological culture that is the most informative of all tests.

When performing any of the described tests on a patient who is in the acute stage of the disease, the pathogen is determined quite simply. But if a person does not have signs of sexually transmitted diseases, there is not a sufficient number of pathogens in the body. Therefore, the patient must prepare for the tests in advance by fulfilling several conditions: abstain from sexual intercourse for three days, do not urinate for several hours before taking a smear.

Treatment of sexually transmitted diseases

Venereal diseases in women and men should be treated only under the supervision of a medical specialist. It is important to realize that the treatment of sexually transmitted diseases in the acute stage is much simpler and more effective than the treatment of diseases that have become chronic. For the fastest and most effective treatment, it is necessary to make a timely diagnosis.

Today, treatment of sexually transmitted diseases is carried out using both medicinal , so physiotherapeutic methods. Before prescribing a treatment regimen, the specialist must conduct a thorough diagnosis and be sure to use an exclusively individual approach to the choice of therapy. Indeed, in some cases, treatment of sexually transmitted diseases may not have the desired effect due to the fact that a certain drug, entering the blood, and later into the tissues, does not properly affect the causative agent of the disease, which is located inside the cell. After the prescribed medication ends, the pathogen leaves the cells and begins to multiply again and provoke a relapse of the disease.

Therefore, the doctor must select the treatment regimen exclusively on an individual basis and only after a thorough diagnosis. When choosing a treatment method, you should take into account the effectiveness of a particular drug, the ease of use for a person, how well he tolerates the drug, and whether adverse reactions occur during treatment. The specialist also takes into account whether there is a possibility of a patient having a combination of different infections, and the resistance of the causative agent of a sexually transmitted disease to the drug that was chosen for treatment.

Another important point that is necessary for effective treatment of the disease is to draw the patient’s attention to the fact that his sexual partner also needs immediate examination and treatment, regardless of whether he exhibits symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases. Otherwise, the treatment will not have the desired effect.

Complications of sexually transmitted diseases

If the disease does not respond to timely treatment, then a number of different complications may occur. Thus, sexually transmitted diseases in women can cause subsequent development adnexitis , salpingitis . In men, the consequence of such ailments is often prostatitis , vesiculitis . Another serious complication of this type of disease sometimes becomes infertility , manifested in representatives of both sexes. Some sexually transmitted diseases can be transmitted from mother to newborn baby. If a woman is sick genital chlamydia , then her newborn child is often diagnosed , conjunctivitis . The baby may also experience a variety of brain pathologies, and in some cases may die. In view of this, relatively recently , And chlamydia were recognized as a threat to normal pregnancy .

In men, diseases based on chlamydia and ureaplasmosis provoke a noticeable decrease in , pathological changes in the composition of sperm and ultimately become the cause of male infertility.

Prevention of sexually transmitted diseases

Methods for the prevention of sexually transmitted diseases are aimed at preventing the occurrence of the disease. Today, the most effective remedy used to prevent infection with sexually transmitted diseases is. This product should be used for all types of sex, and you need to wear a condom correctly.

Prevention of sexually transmitted diseases also involves being selective in your choice of sexual partners. Sexual relationships with a single, trusted partner are optimal.

If sexual contact occurs with a sexual partner who may be suspected of having a sexually transmitted infection, you should rinse the genital tract with an antiseptic solution as quickly as possible (preferably in the first two hours).

It is important to remember that many infections that are transmitted through sexual contact can provoke the onset of the disease without the manifestation of severe symptoms. If you have had sexual intercourse without a condom, you should be examined to rule out infection. Self-medication in case of manifestation of any symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases or if the presence of such a disease is suspected is strictly contraindicated. Prevention of sexually transmitted diseases must be constant and very carefully observed.

Common sexually transmitted diseases

Gardnerellosis – an infectious disease that leads to disruption of the normal microbiological composition in the vagina. In women it manifests itself in the form of bacterial vaginosis, in men it is asymptomatic. The manifestation of the disease is facilitated by long-term treatment with antibiotics, douching, pregnancy, constant change of sexual partners, etc. With this disease, women experience symptoms of itching and noticeable discomfort in the vagina and external genitalia. Observed with a pungent odor. To diagnose the disease, a smear test is performed. Antibacterial and antiprotozoal agents are used for treatment. Sexual contact is prohibited until the end of therapy.

Gonorrhea - is a specific infectious disease. It is almost always transmitted during sexual contact. It primarily affects tissues that are covered with glandular cylindrical tissue. Gonorrhea affects a number of systems and organs. Today, low-symptomatic gonorrhea and severe forms of the disease are often observed. A complication of the disease is often infertility in both sexes. Symptoms of gonorrhea in men appear on the second to sixth days after infection. At first, painful sensations appear when urinating, urination becomes more frequent, and the urine becomes cloudy. Erections also become painful. If a visit to a doctor is not timely, then men may develop complications in the form of lesions of the seminal glands and vesicles, seminal tubercle, inflammation of the epididymis, and prostatitis.

In women, the disease often develops without symptoms. Often the manifestation of some symptoms (pulling, yellowish vaginal discharge) is confused with other diseases. However, later women begin to experience difficulties with urination - frequent urges, pain. The temperature may rise, purulent discharge may appear, and the monthly cycle may be disrupted.

Gonorrhea is diagnosed by smear analysis, bacteriological and immunofluorescence tests. Treatment is prescribed depending on the stage of development of the disease. This could be taking antibiotics, cephaloprorins, or physiotherapy.

Chlamydia cause chlamydia. You can become infected with chlamydia through sexual contact, but there are also cases of infection in the home. The incubation period lasts from 5 to 30 days. In the acute form of chlamydia, changes in the mucous membranes of the genital organs, discharge from the vagina, urethra, itching, and problems with urination may be observed. Chlamydia can be detected in the body only during laboratory testing. The main means of treating the disease are antibiotics.

() occurs due to exposure to yeast-like fungi Candida. Symptoms of this disease often include itching and inflammation. In men, itching and burning appear on the head of the penis, followed by pain, swelling, and plaque. Treatment is carried out using special external agents - creams, gels, ointments. Sometimes therapy includes taking antifungal drugs.

Syphilis – a disease that affects the skin, mucous membranes, internal organs, nervous and osteoarticular systems. You can become infected with the disease through sexual contact, but there are also cases of infection with syphilis in everyday life, through common things. Syphilis can be transmitted to the fetus from the mother. In the primary period of syphilis, the patient develops a hard chancre; as a rule, it occurs on the genitals. Syphilis is diagnosed through a laboratory blood test. It is important to consult a doctor in time, because syphilis is one of the most serious sexually transmitted diseases. Treatment is carried out using antibiotics, and it is very important to cure the disease completely.

The term “venereological disease” refers to an infectious disease that is transmitted during sexual intercourse. It is worth saying that such diseases have been known to mankind for a long time. Today, of course, they are not so common, and effective methods of therapy exist. Unfortunately, many patients prefer to ignore the symptoms of the disease and seek help when complications develop.

That is why it is worth familiarizing yourself with the available information. How and where can you get an infection? What do the symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases look like in men and women? Where can I get tested? What does the treatment regimen look like? How to protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections? Many readers are looking for answers to these questions.

Venereal diseases in men and women

Sexually transmitted diseases are considered quite common, with 50% of those infected being young people under 24 years of age. The risk group primarily includes men and women with promiscuous sexual intercourse, especially if condoms are not used during contact.

Symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases in men and women, of course, depend on the type of pathogen. The incubation period can last from several weeks to several months and even years. During this period, a person becomes a spreader of infection, without even suspecting that he has his own problem.

Despite the diversity, several main symptoms can be identified that are present to one degree or another with any sexually transmitted infection. Venereal disease is usually accompanied by an increase in body temperature. Patients complain of discomfort in the genital area, sometimes there is a burning sensation and pain. General symptoms include inflammation of the lymph nodes (most often their enlargement is observed in the groin area). Many patients complain of an increased urge to urinate, and the process itself is often accompanied by pain.

Many diseases are accompanied by external signs, such as rash, redness and swelling of the genitals. Often men experience mucous or purulent discharge from the urethra. Venereal diseases in women are accompanied by vaginal discharge of an uncharacteristic color, often with an unpleasant odor.

If you notice any of the signs, you should consult a doctor. Self-treatment is very dangerous, because first you need to determine the nature of the pathogen and the stage of development of the disease. In the absence of adequate therapy, sexually transmitted diseases quite often become chronic, which entails very unpleasant consequences (prostatitis, infertility). It is much more difficult to cure a chronic disease, and even with the right approach, it is not always possible to get rid of the infection and the consequences of its activity.

Gonorrhea: causes and symptoms

Gonorrhea is an infectious disease that is accompanied by inflammation of the genitourinary system. The causative agent is gonococcus, which is most often transmitted during sexual intercourse. Microorganisms infect organs that are lined with columnar epithelium, in particular the urethra and uterus. Much less often, the infection spreads to the mucous membranes of the intestines, pharynx, and conjunctiva of the eyes. If left untreated, pathogens can attack the musculoskeletal system, particularly the joints.

Signs of sexually transmitted diseases are quite characteristic. There is swelling of the mucous membranes of the genitals. Many patients complain of pain in the lower abdomen and pain during urination. People are constantly bothered by discomfort, burning and itching. Discharge appears from the vagina and urethra - often it contains impurities of pus and has a very unpleasant odor.

Syphilis: features of the clinical picture

At one time, syphilis was a terrible disease that invariably led to a rather painful death. Today, this disease is easily diagnosed and quite successfully treated. The causative agent is a pallidum spirochete, which is spread sexually. The incubation period lasts about 3-4 weeks.

Syphilis is a systemic disease with an undulating course. The primary stage of the disease lasts about 6-8 weeks and is accompanied by the formation of a hard chancre at the site of infection penetration through the skin (usually a tubercle or pimple on the genitals). Secondary syphilis develops over years - the infection gradually spreads to other organs, affecting the circulatory system and the musculoskeletal system. Syphilis is often accompanied by characteristic skin rashes and alopecia. The tertiary stage is characterized by severe damage to the central nervous system, which often leads to death.

Symptoms of chlamydia

Chlamydia is a very common sexually transmitted disease. The photo shows the pathogen, namely chlamydia. This is a group of quite dangerous diseases. Pathological microorganisms primarily affect the organs of the genitourinary system. Urethritis, vulvovaginitis and cystitis are observed. In men, this disease often leads to the development of prostatitis. Women suffer from cervicitis, endometritis and erosions, which, of course, is fraught with infertility.

In some cases, the infection spreads to other organ systems. Chlamydial pneumonia may develop. Other complications include bacterial conjunctivitis and encephalopathy. The most dangerous is the generalized form of chlamydia, in which pathogenic microorganisms affect the tissues of the liver, heart, digestive tract and lungs.

Clinical picture of trichomoniasis

The causative agent of trichomoniasis is Trichomonas vaginalis. By the way, these microorganisms exclusively affect the organs of the genitourinary system. In men, the target organs are the testicles, seminal vesicles, urethra and prostate gland. Women suffer from inflammation of the urethra, vagina and cervical canal.

Patients complain of pain, redness and irritation in the genital area. Often there appears abundant foamy discharge with an unpleasant odor of yellow or even green color. There is discomfort during urination and sexual intercourse. Ulcers and erosions may form on the mucous membrane of the genital organs. Some patients develop dermatitis on the skin of the thighs.

Viral venereal diseases

If we are talking about viral diseases, then it is worth mentioning genital herpes, the causative agent of which is the herpes simplex virus (most often type 2). Signs of sexually transmitted diseases in this case are the appearance of a blistering rash on the skin of the penis, scrotum in men, in the anus and external genitalia in women. Often quite painful ulcers form at the site of the rash. By the way, a herpes infection, as a rule, becomes more active against the background of a decrease in the activity of the immune system, and it is completely impossible to cure it.

The next common pathogen is the human papillomavirus, which can also be transmitted during sexual intercourse. There are more than 100 varieties of this virus. In most cases, against the background of its activity, warts (papillomas) of various shapes and sizes appear. They can form on the skin and mucous membranes, and not only in the genital area.

The most dangerous viral disease is the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The infection spreads during sexual intercourse, as well as through contact with the blood of an infected person. This virus destroys a person's immune system, making the body susceptible to almost any other infection (even a common cold can be dangerous). The incubation period lasts on average 10 years. Today, doctors can only offer supportive therapy.

Tests for sexually transmitted diseases and other diagnostic methods

If you notice suspicious symptoms, you should consult a doctor. After a general examination, the patient must be tested for sexually transmitted diseases. There are several main research methods.

The advantages of the technique include speed and low cost. On the other hand, it is not always possible for a laboratory technician to identify all pathogens, so this analysis is used for preliminary diagnosis - additional examinations are needed to make a final diagnosis.

Additionally, bacteriological culture of samples obtained from the smear is carried out. The study takes several days, but it makes it possible to accurately determine the causative agent of the disease, as well as the degree of its sensitivity to certain medications.

Sometimes a blood test is performed, although it is more effective for viral infections. It is worth saying that in some cases false results are possible, since it takes time for the immune system to begin producing antibodies.

Basic principles of treatment

Treatment of sexually transmitted diseases directly depends on the type of disease, the stage of its development and, of course, the nature of the pathogen. If we are talking about a bacterial infection, then antibiotics will be effective. For example, for chlamydia, Azithromycin is used. If we are talking about gonorrhea, then Cefixime or some other broad-spectrum antibiotics are used. Syphilis in the first stage also responds well to treatment with antibacterial agents. Of course, as the disease progresses, the infection spreads to other organs, so other drugs are also included in therapy.

As for viral diseases, for example herpes, papillomavirus, it is not possible to completely get rid of them - viral particles remain in the body, from time to time provoking an exacerbation of the disease. During an acute inflammatory process, antiviral drugs (Acyclovir) are used in the form of tablets or gels for external use.

It’s worth saying right away that if a patient has a venereological disease, then both partners should undergo therapy, since there is a high probability of re-infection. During treatment, it is recommended to abstain from sexual contact. The state of the immune system is also important. Proper nutrition, frequent walks, physical activity, normal sleep and rest, lack of stress - all this has a positive effect on the body's protective functions, increasing resistance to infectious agents.

Preventive precautions: how to prevent infection?

As you can see, sexually transmitted infections can be quite dangerous, and therapy takes a lot of time. It is much easier to avoid infection than to then undergo complex treatment. What does prevention of sexually transmitted diseases look like? Unfortunately, there are no specific remedies. But by following certain rules, you can reduce the risk of infection.

As mentioned, people with promiscuous sex life are at risk. In this case, the use of a condom is simply necessary, since today it is the only means of protection against infection (oral contraceptives and other means only prevent fertilization). In the event that sexual contact does occur without the use of protection, it is important to carry out hygiene procedures as soon as possible. For washing, you can use boiled water and soap. Women are recommended to douche, preferably using antiseptics, in particular Miramistin.

Afterwards, you should get tested for sexually transmitted diseases - the sooner the disease is detected, the faster and easier its treatment will be.

In 1999, WHO recommended the term sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as the main term for sexually transmitted diseases in men.

The genital tract includes all types of sex, but under certain conditions, infection can occur through extrasexual contact.

Many men are unaware that they are infected. Infections can occur in any sexually active person. They affect people of all races and sexual orientations equally.

Fortunately, sexually transmitted diseases in men are largely preventable.

• Some male sexually transmitted diseases can be cured with a course of antibiotics, while others are persistent and incurable.
• Some STDs may cause mild symptoms, while others may be present without causing any symptoms.
• Many sexually transmitted diseases in men do not cause symptoms and can be transmitted through infected people who have no obvious symptoms.
• All men who actively have sex are at risk. The only group of young men who are not at risk are monks.
• Using barrier contraception can reduce the chance of infection, but even this method is not completely safe.

Rosstat released a report according to which in recent years urogenital chlamydia has taken first place, and urogenital trichomoniasis has taken second place. Young people under the age of 24 account for approximately half of newly infected people. Young men and young women are affected approximately equally.

The main signs of sexually transmitted diseases in men

Most sexually transmitted diseases in men do not initially cause symptoms. This leads to the risk of transmitting the disease to other people.

For men, sexually transmitted diseases can be divided into three categories:

1. Those that cause genital ulcers and other lesions of the genital organs.
2. Sexually transmitted diseases that primarily cause urethritis or inflammation of the urethra. This may be accompanied by a burning sensation and pain when urinating.
3. Systemic STIs that cause symptoms throughout the body.

Signs of sexually transmitted diseases in men directly depend on the type of pathogen.

Chlamydia is an infection caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. At first, many of those infected have no obvious symptoms. When symptoms of urethritis occur, they are the most common. It can also cause infection of the epididymis and testes.

Gonorrhea Caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The disease may occur without obvious signs and remain undiagnosed. Gonorrhea can cause urethritis in men. Signs of sexually transmitted diseases in men from the pathogen Neisseria gonorrhoeae are manifested by burning, pain, and purulent discharge. The disease can cause inflammation in the rectum and throat. The bacteria can spread in the body, causing rashes and joint pain.

Major infections

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is the most dangerous STI.

Infection can occur through sexual contact, through shared needles, or from an infected pregnant woman to her child. The virus ultimately leads to dysfunction of the body's immune system. The average time from infection to immunosuppression is 10 years. HIV has no specific symptoms, but some people develop a fever.

Human herpesvirus type 2 can cause genital herpes. In men, sores can be found on the penis, scrotum, anus, and on the skin of the thighs. Herpes simplex virus type 1 usually appears around the mouth, while HSV type 2 appears on the genitals. Both types of HSV can infect the genital area.

Human papillomavirus is a very common STI. Different types of viruses manifest themselves in different ways. Some HPVs cause warts, which are not a sexually transmitted disease. Other types spread during sexual activity. The vast majority of people with HPV do not develop genital warts or cancer.

Attention

The body is able to get rid of the infection on its own. It is believed that more than 75% of Russians have been infected at one time. When a man develops genital warts, they appear as soft, fleshy, raised bumps on the penis or anal area.

Syphilis is a bacterial infection caused by Treponema pallidum. If left untreated, the disease progresses in three stages, but can persist in a latent state. The first sign of this venereal disease in men is a hard chancre on the penis. Chancre develops after infection and may resolve after some time.

How are sexually transmitted diseases diagnosed in men?

Many sexually transmitted diseases are diagnosed based on clinical history and examination. Herpes and syphilis can be detected immediately. Diagnosis involves identification of the infectious agent. There are a number of clinical tests that involve drawing blood from a vein.

Treatment of venereal diseases: basic list of drugs

Basic medicines for sexually transmitted diseases

Chlamydial infection is treated with azithromycin. However, reinfection may occur if sexual partners refuse to be treated together.

Antibiotics such as cefixime are commonly used to treat gonorrhea. In case of resistance, other groups of antibiotics are used to treat sexually transmitted diseases in men. Treatment of gonorrhea is often accompanied by management of chlamydial infection, since these two infections usually occur together.

STD medications containing metronidazalom and tinidazole are effective against Trichomonas infection.

The herpes simplex virus is incurable and remains in the body until death. Outbreaks of infection occur when the immune system is weakened. In this situation, for the treatment of genital herpes, it is recommended to take Acyclovir in the form of ointments or tablets.

There is no specific treatment for HPV infection, but it often goes away on its own. It is possible to remove genital warts using a laser.

• Syphilis can be safely treated with antibiotics during the first stage.
• Without treatment, secondary syphilis develops, which is dangerous due to the spread of infection to other organs.
• Skin rashes, swollen lymph nodes, and kidney disease may appear.
• After this, tertiary syphilis may develop, which can cause various conditions, including encephalitis, aortic aneurysm.
• Syphilis is curable with proper and timely treatment with antibiotics.

Treatment of herpes

If sexually transmitted diseases in men are left untreated, some of them can spread throughout the body, causing serious consequences. Gonorrhea and syphilis are examples of treatable diseases, while HIV infection leads to immune suppression.

Using condoms can help prevent the transmission of many STIs, but no method of prevention is 100% safe. Limiting the number of sexual partners can help reduce your risk of getting infections.

How to treat sexually transmitted diseases at home?

If a laboratory is not equipped at home, then the infection can only be detected in the blood in a hospital.

Serious sexually transmitted diseases can be treated at home only on the recommendation of a doctor after discharge from the hospital. In mild cases, for example, during exacerbation of herpes, you can use a drug for sexually transmitted diseases such as Acyclovir.

Sexually transmitted diseases are sexually transmitted diseases.

Some of them have been known to mankind for hundreds of years, others appeared relatively recently. In addition to “age,” they also differ in their danger and prevalence.

The following is a list of the 10 most common sexually transmitted diseases, which will begin with the most common and end with fairly rare diseases, but no less dangerous.

1. .

About 70% of sexually active men and women are asymptomatic carriers of this sexually transmitted disease. Infection mainly occurs through sexual contact, but it is also possible in domestic conditions.

Asymptomatic carriage turns into disease when the maximum safe content of the pathogen in the human body is exceeded. Symptoms in men are clear discharge, a slight burning sensation when urinating, and symptoms of prostatitis.

In women, ureaplasmosis causes pain in the lower abdomen (due to inflammation of the internal genital organs), vaginal discharge and burning during urination. In men, prostatitis can be a complication of ureaplasmosis, in women – infertility and ectopic pregnancy.

2.

According to some reports, about 40% of women suffer from this sexually transmitted disease. Outwardly, it manifests itself in the formation of genital warts, which were first described in Ancient Greece. Not long ago it became known that human papillomavirus infection is a viral disease that can be a precursor to cervical cancer.

3. .

This sexually transmitted disease occurs with a frequency of 7 to 30%. Manifests itself in the formation of blisters on the skin and mucous membrane. At the moment there is no cure for herpes, there are only drugs that can suppress its reproduction. In some cases, herpes can affect the nervous system.

4. .

The incidence of gonorrhea among women under 30 years of age is about 15%. The pathogenic effect of gonococci (the causative agents of this disease) is exerted mainly on the mucous membrane of the genital organs. The disease can occur in both acute and chronic forms. In men, in the acute form, there may be discharge of pus, mucus, a sensation of “tickling”, “broken glass” when urinating. Possible inflammation of the urethra and epididymis, damage to the bladder and kidneys. The external genitalia become swollen and inflamed. In women, all the symptoms are similar.

5. .

According to various sources, chlamydia affects 5 to 15% of the sexually mature and sexually active population. Symptoms in women include burning and itching in the external genital area, discharge with an unpleasant odor and a yellowish tint. A slight increase in temperature is possible. Women are more susceptible to this disease. Symptoms in men include pain in the lower back, scrotum, testicles and urethra. Itching and cloudy urine may occur.

6. .

Of the total number of sexually transmitted infections, it accounts for about 10%. This disease is dangerous because the affected area is not only the genitourinary system, but also the tonsils, conjunctiva of the eyes and even the lungs. Women with this disease experience pain during sexual intercourse, vaginal discharge and itching. In men, symptoms of prostatitis and discharge from the urethra.

7. Cytomegalovirus infection.

Frequency of occurrence 0.2 – 2.5%. Complete recovery from this infection does not occur; the virus can only go into latent form and wait for a decrease in immunity, during which it will manifest itself again. Contained in all biological fluids of the body. May cause retinitis, leading to blindness. Particularly dangerous for children. The main carriers of this disease are homosexuals and prostitutes.

8. .

This disease affects less than 1% of the world's population. It is associated with lesions of the skin, mucous membranes, nervous system and bones. This disease is caused by Treponema pallidum. Syphilis has several stages. At the site where the infection enters the body, a so-called chancre is formed. If left untreated, this disease leads to significant changes in a person's appearance and ultimately death. ...

9.

According to official data, it affected 0.2% of the world's population. HIV infection affects the body's immune system and prevents it from effectively resisting infections. An HIV-infected person may not know about his disease for several years, since it is initially asymptomatic, but can already infect healthy people with it. In the later stages, many concomitant diseases are added to HIV, such as Kaposi's sarcoma. A cure and prevention for HIV have not yet been developed, but research is being actively conducted in this direction.