Sexually Transmitted Diseases – The Price of Sexual Freedom: Part 2
NSU
The most common sexually transmitted disease is nonspecific urethritis or NSU which continues to increase at an remarkable rate. Many cases of NSU are caused by the Chlamydia germ but not all. NSU is an inflammation of the urethra and has no identifiable cause.
The primary symptom is a discharge from the penis. This may be nothing more than moistness at the tip of the penis but this can vary. The discharge is different to the discharge in gonorrhea and makes it easier to recognize. There is also pain on urinating.
Genital herpes
Genital herpes, another sexually transmitted disease, has reached epidemic proportions in the Western world. This is because the herpes virus cannot be cured and so, once infected, the person carries the germ permanently. Thus, any person infected adds to the population of carriers.
There are two herpes viruses. The first one, HSV 1, is normally found around the mouth and is known as cold sores. The second one, HSV 2 , is an infection passed by sexual contact and is normally found in the genital area and the anus, as well as on the bladder, the buttocks, the thighs and the legs of both male and female sufferers.
After the first attack the virus lies dormant in the body. It will then recur time and time again, usually in the same place, appearing as a painful blister. When any of these blisters are open, the carrier is extremely infectious. Usually, the attacks are linked to emotional or physical lows such as depression, stress, or injury.
Genital herpes causes pain and distress to an adult but is not fatal. However, if the herpes virus is passed to an infant during its journey down the birth canal of an infected mother, it is often fatal. It is important for the mother to inform the medical professionals so that they can monitor her pregnancy and possibly advise her to have the baby by cesarean section.
Genital herpes cannot be cured but there are ways of making the attacks more bearable. By keeping the affected area clean and dry, the carrier can ward off secondary infections. Pain can be kept to a minimum by the application of cold compresses and also by taking salt baths.
Female sufferers need to have a pap smear annually as genital herpes has been linked to cervical cancer.
In women, vaginal discharge may constitute reasons for concern. However, if the discharge is clear, it is unlikely to be the result of disease. If the discharge is offensive and discolored and causes irritation to the vagina and vulva, it would suggest the presence of infection which may need to be investigated. It is essential that this is not allowed to continue and medical advice should be sought as soon as possible, especially if this is accompanied by abdominal pain and fever as it may be an indication of a sexually transmitted disease.
Prevention
Obviously, the best way to avoid sexually transmitted diseases is by abstinence or monogamy. However, if considering sex with a new partner, it would be wise to use a condom until you are sure about the person. If you are worried, cleaning the genital area thoroughly with soap and water after intercourse will kill many of the bacteria. This is true for both males and females.
It is extremely dangerous to apply antiseptic lotions to the genital area and particularly to pour strong antiseptic into the urethra or vagina as it can cause serious and permanent internal damage.
If you believe there is any possibility that you may have an STD, do not hesitate to seek medical attention. Everything that happens is confidential and no information is given to anyone without your permission.
Remember that the staff are there to help you, not to judge you, and the atmosphere is usually very friendly and helpful.
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