Types of Diseases - Sexually Transmitted Infections (GCSE Biology)
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Sexually transmitted infection (STI) is an infection that is transmitted via body fluids through sexual contact.
The spread of STIs can be reduced by educating people about STIs, abstaining from intercourse or having protected sex. Limiting the number of sexual partners can also reduce the spread. It is also good to get screened for the infection and make partners aware if the test returns positive. There are some vaccines for specific STIs but for infections like HIV, there are medications that can decrease the risk of the HIV being passed onto others. For example, during pregnancy, the mother can take medication to stop her from passing HIV to her baby.
Some examples of STIs include HIV (covered in the virus chapter), Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia.
Gonorrhoea
- Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Gonorrhoea is an STD transmitted by sexual contact. The spread can be prevented using antibiotics, or by barrier contraception (e.g. a condom).
- Gonorrhoea is caused by a bacterium. Gonorrhoea is spread by bacteria and until recently could be treated by penicillin. However, recently, antibiotic resistant strains of the bacteria have developed.
- Gonorrhoea has many unpleasant symptoms. Gonorrhoea causes pain during urination, and is characterised by the discharge of a yellow / green fluid from the vagina or penis.
Chlamydia
- Chlamydia is another sexually transmitted disease (STD). It can spread by genital contact, not just by sexual intercourse. It doesn’t always present with symptoms however, it can cause infertility in both men and women.
- Chlamydia is a type of bacterium however, it behaves like a virus. It can only replicate inside host cells.
- The spread of Chlamydia can be prevented. Having protected sex can reduce transmission. Individuals can be screened for Chlamydia so can start treatment and can also avoid sexual contact.
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