Sexually transmitted infections are some of the most common infections in Anguilla. Some of them can be very severe with deadly consequences and add thousands of dollars to the country’s health care costs.

What is a sexually transmitted infection?
Sexually transmitted infections are infections that can be transmitted from one person to another through sexual contact. Sexual contact includes more than just intercourse. Sexual contact includes oral-genital contact and the use of sexual “toys” such as vibrators. There are more than 20 sexually transmitted infections or diseases, the most deadly being AIDS/HIV. Others include syphilis, gonorrhoaea, Chlamydia and Human pailloma virus infection (genital warts), hepatic B, scabies, herpes and trichomoniasis.

Who can become infected?
Adolescents and young adults 15-24 are the age groups at the greatest risk for acquiring sexually transmitted infections. Abstinence is the only perfect way of avoiding a sexually transmitted infection. Sex in the context of a monogamous relationship where neither party is infected with a sexually transmitted infection is considered safe sex and sexually transmitted infections will not occur.

Condoms are useful in helping to prevent certain diseases such as HIV and gonorrhoea, however, they are less effective protecting against herpes, trichomoniasis and Chlamydia. Condoms provide little protection against human papilloma virus.

What organisms cause sexually transmitted infections?
A number of organisms cause sexually transmitted diseases. Viruses cause infections like AIDS, herpes, and hepatitis B, parasites cause scabies and lice,and bacteria cause gonorrhoea, syphilis and Chlamydia.

How do you know that you have a sexually transmitted infection?
Many people with sexually transmitted infections have no symptoms. If you think you are at risk of having a sexually transmitted infection you should see your doctor for a complete examination including a pelvic and genital examination. If you have a sexually transmitted infection you may notice the following:
• Sores, bumps or blisters near your sex organs, rectum or mouth
• An unusual discharge or smell from the vagina
• Pain in your pelvic area (area between your belly button and sex organs)
• Burning or itching around your sex organs
• Bleeding from your vagina that is not your regular period
• Pain deep inside your vagina when you have sex
• Burning and pain when you urinate (pee)
• Need to urinate often
• A drip or discharge from penis (in men)

Prevention
Not having sex is the best way to protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections. Many more teenagers should be made aware of this fact.
Having sex with only one uninfected partner who only has sex with you is also safe.
All individuals should talk to their partners about past sex partners.
Prior to having sex look closely at your partner for any signs of sexually transmitted infections like a rash, blister, sore or discharge. If you see anything you are worried about do not have sex.
Know the signs and symptoms of sexually transmitted infections. If you are concerned about anything see your doctor for an examination.
Latex condoms will help protect you from some sexually transmitted infections.
You should have regular check ups with your doctor.

Treatment
Treatment will depend on the type of infection. In some individuals more than one infection may occur at the same time. If you have symptoms suggestive of a sexually transmitted infection stop having sex and see your doctor immediately for a check up.
Infections caused by bacteria are usually treated by antibiotics. Infections caused by viruses cannot be cured but medical treatment can keep them under control.
If your doctor tells you that you have a sexually transmitted infection you need to tell you sexual partner(s). This will give them the opportunity to get tested and treated.

Conclusion
Sexually transmitted infections are one of the most under recognized health problems in Anguilla. Many sexually transmitted infections can be successfully treated if diagnosed early, while others can only be controlled. Untreated infections can lead to related conditions such as pelvic inflammatory disease, cervical cancer, liver failure and complications of pregnancy. Individuals with symptoms of sexually transmitted infections, or who think they are at risk of infection, should see their doctor for a check up.

Ask Your Doctor is a health education colun and is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician. Dr. Brett Hodge is an obstetrician/gynecologist and family doctor who has over 20 yers in clinical practice. Dr. Hodge has a medical practice in the Johnson Building in The Valley.

| Printer-friendly page | Send this article to a friend |

World News