When diagnosed and treated early, almost all STDs can be treated effectively. Some organisms, such as certain forms of gonococci, have become resistant to the drugs used to treat them and now require higher doses or newer types of antibiotics. The most serious STD for which no effective treatment or cure now exists is acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), a fatal viral infection of the immune system.
Major Types
Diseases that can be transmitted sexually are:
- Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS)
- Bacterial vaginosis
- Chancroid
- Chlamydial infections
- Cytomegalovirus infections
- Herpes
- Genital mycoplasma infections
- Genital (venereal) warts (Papillomavirus)
- Gonorrhea
- Granuloma inguinale (Donovanosis)
- Group B streptococcal infections
- Molluscum contagiosum
- Pubic lice
- Scabies
- Syphilis
- Trichomoniasis
- Enteric infections: Hepatitis A; Amebiasis; Giardiasis; Shigellosis
Papillomavirus (condylomas)
Papillomavirus is a virus that causes growths (called condylomas or genital warts) and it is the most common STD in the U.S. Condylomas commonly accompany other STDs, such as gonorrhea. The virus is usually spread by direct contact with a wart from an infected person.
Condylomas are fleshy growths that appear alone or in clusters. They usually break out in moist areas on or around the genitals (sex organs) and anus. Growths inside the genital organs are soft and red or pink. Outside growths are firm and dark. They are often no larger than the tip of a pencil, but they may combine to form large, cauliflower-like growths.
Genital warts usually appear one to three months after contact, but some go undetected until they cause discomfort. Lesions can become infected and cause mild irritation or itching. Small condylomas may cause rectal pain or pain during intercourse. Papillomavirus may have a serious complication. The presence of condylomas has been linked to cervical cancer. Women with histories of genital warts should have a Pap test at least once a year.
