Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Apart from the fact that sexually transmitted diseases like AIDS are deadly and have no cure, people in India infected with STDs are usually degraded. Living like this can be tormenting and challenging to cope with. Thus, to avoid the increase of STDs, the government has launched many awareness programmes like National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) that educate and motivate people to get diagnosed.
STDs are usually caused by bacteria, viruses, protozoa, nematodes, fungi, ectoparasites, and Chlamydomonas. If one doesn’t take care, they can suffer from diseases like Haemophilus ducreyi. Symptoms comprise the appearance of ulcers at the site of infection, especially over the genitalia. These ulcers can be painful and bleed easily.  Genital herpes and warts show hard outgrowths developed on the surface of the external genitalia, causing discharge. The most common sexually transmitted disease is AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Disease Syndrome) caused by HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), which can be tested using ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay). Other confirmatory tests for STDs include DNA hybridisation, Polymerase chain reaction PCR, Culture, and microscopic observation with specific staining.

Some sexually transmitted diseases-

• Genital warts-Virus
• Syphilis- Bacteria
• Gonorrhoea-Bacteria
• Trichomoniasis-Protozoa
• AIDS: It is caused by HIV- Human immunodeficiency virus. 

Mode of transmission/infection:

HIV can be transmitted through semen, vaginal secretions, or infected blood. This can occur in various ways:

By having sexual contact:

• Vaginal, anal, or oral intercourse with an infected partner whose blood, semen or vaginal discharge enters one’s body. 
• Sores or tears that develop in the vagina or rectum due to intercourse can also serve as gateways for the virus to enter the body.

Blood transfusions:

• In some cases, the disease-causing virus can get transmitted through blood transfusions.
• This generally happens in a rush of emergency cases where negligence leads to the transfusion of infected blood to healthy patients.

By sharing needles:

• Sharing contaminated needles and syringes with an infected person can put one at high risk of contracting HIV and other infections like Hepatitis.
• This happens when infected blood enters the body of a healthy person. Therefore it is crucial to inquire before getting an injection or vaccination, especially while giving blood samples.

During pregnancy or childbirth:

• Pregnant women can pass on the virus to the developing foetus through the placenta.
• Women who have tested positive for any STDs are advised to take proper medication to safeguard their child’s health. 

Breastfeeding:

• Colostrum can cause infection to the baby while breastfeeding from an infected mother.

Prevention:

There is generally no vaccine against sexually transmitted diseases. But by following certain preventive measures one can protect themselves as well as others from getting infected.

Measures to prevent infection:

• Refrain from having intercourse with an unknown partner, since one is unaware of their medical condition and they might be infected.
• If one becomes aware that they were exposed to the infection through intercourse, sharing needles, or any other causes; visit a doctor and seek help immediately. 
• Taking PEP within 72 hours of exposure can reduce the risk of getting infected with HIV.
• Do not re-use old condoms. Also, encourage the other person to engage in hygienic practices.
• Using contraceptives is the best preventive measure.
• Use a clean needle to inject drugs. Make sure it’s sterile and never share or reuse it.
• The act of male circumcision should be performed. Studies show that it helps reduce the chances of getting HIV infection. 
• Avoid unprotected sex at any time.
• Maintain proper hygiene. Do not share towels and undergarments.

Post-infection measures:

• Always inform the partner if one is infected by any type of STI.
• Infected partners are advised to take proper medications regularly to avoid causing others troubles.
• Get a vaccine for Hepatitis B.

Conclusion: 

Providing the younger generation with proper sex education has become very essential to acknowledge myths and taboos. This further helps protect citizens from sexually transmitted diseases. A person who is aware and educated will follow preventive measures and be responsible. Various awareness programmes have been launched to educate people. Apart from this, schools and educational institutions must spread the word. Hospitals and other public places should also manifest the cause. As said prevention is better than cure, together we can fight sexually transmitted diseases.