Sexually Transmitted Infections
About STIs, their symptoms and treatment
A sexually transmitted infection (STI) is any virus or bacteria that passes from one person to another through vaginal, anal or oral sex. An STI can also spread through sharing needles or breastfeeding. Sometimes called sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), STIs are common in Australia.
But even though STIs are common, many women find it difficult to talk about them and get the care they need. At Venus Women’s Clinics, we provide a safe and compassionate environment to promote the best and most timely medical care and advice.
What are the symptoms of STIs in women?
Many STIs have similar symptoms, and women often experience:
- Painful or uncomfortable sex.
- Pain when urinating.
- Rashes, bumps or sores on or around the vagina, anus, buttocks, thighs, or mouth.
- Unusual discharge or bleeding from the vagina
- Itchiness in or around the vagina.
Avoid any sexual activity completely if you think that you have an STI. Seek medical attention for your concerns, and refrain from sex until advised by a doctor.
Always tell any current and previous partners if you are diagnosed with an STI.
Sometimes you will not have any symptoms of an STI, yet still carry the infection. That is why STI screening is so important.
What are the most common STIs?
Chlamydia
- more serious infection
- infertility
- serious health issues in newborns (an untreated pregnant woman can pass it to her baby during birth).
Genital Herpes or Herpes Simplex Virus
Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus ( the same type of virus that causes cold sores).
The herpes simplex virus remains, usually in dormant form, in your body throughout your life. From time to time, you can have outbreaks of sores and blisters. These flares of genital herpes can be treated. However, HSV can’t yet be cured.
Flares of genital herpes can be managed with antiviral medicines. These also help reduce the risk of passing the virus on to a sexual partner.
People with HSV must always use protection when having sex, even when symptom-free. Let your sexual partners know that you have HSV, to reduce the risk of infection.
Genital Warts or Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)
Not to be confused with HSV, the human papillomavirus (HPV) most commonly appears as warts on the genitals, mouth or throat.
Some strains of the HPV virus (e.g. HPV 16 and HPV 18) can lead to cancer. However, the strains that cause genital warts are unlikely to cause cancer.
You can get vaccinated for protection against most HPVs that cause genital warts. The same vaccination also provides protection against the high-risk HPV 16 and HPV 18.
Treatment options include:
- wart paint that is specifically for genital warts
- cryotherapy
- laser treatment
- a cream containing imiquimod, to enhance the immune system’s ability to fight the HPV virus
- surgery.
Gonorrhoea
Gonorrhoea, like chlamydia, is a bacterial STI. Sometime called ‘the clap’, it can be treated with a course of antibiotics. Many people don’t know they have it, as they are symptom-free. But if you don’t get treatment, gonorrhoea can lead to:
- infections of the urethra
- pelvic inflammatory disease
- infertility.
As with chlamydia, a woman can pass gonorrhoea to her baby during childbirth. Infection with gonorrhoea can cause serious health problems in the baby.
HIV infection and AIDS
The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is the virus that causes Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). It attacks your immune system, making it weaker and less able s to fight off infection.
These days, people with HIV who take effective treatment (antiretrovirals) are unlikely to develop AIDS.
If you think you could have contracted HIV, have a test immediately. As with other STIs, early diagnosis and treatment is important.
How do I talk with a doctor about STIs?
STI prevention and management are a standard part of medical care. At Venus Women’s Clinics, we make it as comfortable and easy as possible to discuss any medical topic. Just like you, we want to improve treatment and minimise the spread of STIs through our communities.
Here are some questions you can ask one of our doctors:
- How often should I be tested for STIs?
- What does an STI test involve?
- What vaccinations can I have to prevent STIs?
- What should I do if I have an HIV-positive sexual partner?
- What should I do if I have an HIV-positive test result?
- How can I talk to my partner about STIs?
If you think you have an STI, or if you are concerned a sexual partner may have an STI, Venus Women’s Clinics can help. We offer evidence-backed quality diagnosis and management of STIs and their symptoms. Put your health first with the caring and compassionate health professionals at Venus Women’s Clinics.
NOTE: While it is reviewed for clinical accuracy, the content on the Venus Women’s Clinic website does not replace professional advice. This information should not be used as an alternative to professional healthcare. If you have a particular medical problem, please consult a doctor or a specialist.
