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What is an STI?
A sexually transmitted infection (STI) is one in which it is transferred from one person to another person through vaginal, oral, or anal sex. It can also be passed through skin-to-skin contact. An STI can be caused by contracting a virus or being exposed to bacteria. Here’s what you need to know about the most common five STIs.
STIs Caused By a Virus
HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
HPV is a sexually transmitted virus that can lead to cancers in women, such as cervical cancer, vaginal cancer, or vulva cancer. Men who have HPV may be at risk of developing penile cancer.
Herpes
Two types of viruses can cause herpes — herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) or herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Oral cold sores and fever blisters can characterize HSV-1. HSV-1 can be spread from the mouth to the genitals through oral sex, which is why HSV-1 causes some genital herpes. An infected partner with genital herpes (HSV-2) can spread it through vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
STIs Caused by Bacteria
Chlamydia
When left untreated, chlamydia can cause permanent damage to a woman’s reproductive system, making it difficult to become pregnant. Thankfully, chlamydia is highly treatable and curable with medication. Chlamydia can be spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea can cause infections to the genitals, rectum, and throat. A pregnant woman can spread gonorrhea to her baby through childbirth. With proper medical treatment, gonorrhea is curable.
Syphilis
When left untreated, syphilis can cause damage to vital organs such as the heart, blood vessels, brain, and nerves. Someone infected with syphilis typically has sores at the original infection site and can occur on or around the mouth and genitals. Syphilis spreads through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. With antibiotics, syphilis can be cured but may not reverse any damage from having the infection.
STI Risk Factors
The following are the top risk factors for contracting an STI:
- Having unprotected sex.
- Sexual contact with multiple partners.
- Having a history of STIs.
- Anyone coerced or forced into sexual activity (assault or rape).
- Use of recreational drugs or misuse of alcohol.
- Sharing needles to inject.
- Being between the age of 15 and 24 years old.
Contracted an STI From a Partner? We Can Help.
If you were infected with an STI from a sexual partner who failed to inform you of their sexual health status, you might be eligible to file an STD lawsuit. Pursuing compensation through an STD lawsuit can help you recover from piling medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Calling out someone who gave you an STI is a personal and private matter — and our attorneys are here to protect your privacy and help you through a difficult time.
Contact KMD Law at (833) 456-3529 to schedule a consultation.
