The Chain of Infection and Sexually Transmitted Diseases

The Chain of Infection… Follow the link below to learn how Pathogens spread and about the Chain of Infection. https://prezi.com/xsdxnzc4nycj/edit/#0_24309637

What is a Sexually Transmitted Disease or STD? STD- Infections spread from person to person through intimate sexual contact STD’s can spread easily, even without having intercourse, through skin-to-skin contact. Many STD’s have no symptoms. Anyone who has sex is at risk of getting a STD, but young people aged 15-24 are at greater risk. STD’s are preventable.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases

CDC

CDC

CDC

Common STD’s Chlamydia Gonorrhea Genital Herpes (HSV-2) HPV (Genital Warts) Hepatitis B HIV Syphilis Trichomoniasis

Prevention is Key to Protecting Health Abstinence (choosing to not be sexually active) is BEST way to protect health and prevent STD’s. If someone decides to be sexually active, they can reduce their risk of STD’s by… Limiting their number of lifelong, sexual relationships. Practice mutual monogamy (both partners agree to only have sexual contact with each other). Getting tested for STD’s, and having their partner get tested. Talking with their partner about STD’s and staying safe… BEFORE having sex. Using a condom correctly every time for any type of sex (vaginal, oral, or anal) from start to finish. Getting vaccinated for HPV. HPV is the most common STD and can be prevented through vaccination.

Why might someone with an STD be unaware of their infection? Most people are asymptomatic, which means they have no symptoms. Unfortunately, many people do not know they have a STD. 

How does someone know if they have an STD? Getting tested for STD’s from a health care provider or local health clinic is the only way to tell for sure if you're infected. If someone is infected, symptoms may appear right away, or they may not show up for weeks or months or even years. Symptoms may come and go. Even if symptoms go away, you can still infect other people through sexual contact. There are places that offer confidential and free STD tests. Visit gettested.cdc.gov to find an STD testing location near you.

Different STDs have different symptoms Symptoms of STDs can include: sores or bumps on and around the genitals, thighs, or butt cheeks abnormal discharge from the vagina or penis burning when peeing and/or having to pee a lot itching, pain, irritation and/or swelling in the penis, vagina, vulva, or anus flu-like symptoms like fever, body aches, swollen glands, and feeling tired. Remember: Many times STD’s have no symptoms, and sometimes symptoms don't show up for weeks, months, or years and can come and go.

Common STD Symptoms Write the following definition in the Summary/Reflection section of your notes. Asymptomatic- producing or showing no symptoms.

What should someone do if they have symptoms? If someone thinks they have an STD, they need to see a healthcare provider to be tested and treated. Being nervous about getting checked for STDs is normal. The tests are usually quick, and it may help to remember that the nurses and doctors are there to help, and that they do these test all the time.

What does getting tested for STD’s involve? Possible STD Tests… A urine test — pee into a cup. A cheek swab — rub the inside of the cheek with a soft swab to test for HIV. A blood test — a nurse or doctor takes blood from the arm or a quick finger prick. A physical exam — a nurse or doctor looks at the genital area to check for warts, sores, rashes, irritation, or discharge. Testing sores — a nurse or doctor takes a sample of fluid from any sores or blisters with a swab. Using a swab to take discharge or cell samples from the penis, vagina, urethra, cervix, anus, or throat.  

Can ALL STD’s be cured? Not all STD’s can be cured, but all STD’s can be treated. Many STD’s can be cured. Some STD’s that have been easily treated and cured in the past have started to develop a resistance. Treatment can help control symptoms and make the infection less severe.

What can happen if someone doesn't get tested and/or treated? Untreated STD’s can lead to… Infertility (inability to have children) Severe, Systemic Health Problems Cancer (HPV  Cervical Cancer) Long-term Pain Endangering Pregnancy/Childbirth Infecting a Partner