What are sexually transmitted diseases ? Give examples. Mention the different modes of transmission and prevention of sexually transmitted diseases.

Explanation

SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES (STDS) : Diseases or infections which are transmitted mainly through sexual intercourse are collectively called Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) or Venereal Diseases (VD) or Reproductive Tract Infections (RTIS). Other modes of transmission include sharing of injection needles, surgical instruments etc. with infected persons, transfusion of blood from an infected mother to the foetus too. Early symptoms of most of these are minor and include itching, fluid discharge, slight pain, swellings etc in the genital area. Infected females may often be asymptomatic. If timely detection and proper treatment is not taken it could lead to complications like Pelvic Inflammatory Diseases (PID). abortions, still births, ectopic pregnancies, infertility or even cancer of the reproductive tracts. STDs include gonorrhea, syphilis, genital herpes, chlamydiasis, genital warts, trichomoniasis, hepatitis B and AIDS. Except for hepatitis B, genital herpes and HIV infections, other diseases are completely curable.