Treatment of sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are diagnosed in millions of people worldwide every year. Often, these diseases are asymptomatic, which complicates their timely detection and treatment. According to WHO, syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia and trichomoniasis are most often diagnosed. Bacterial infections can be successfully treated with antibiotics, and viral infections - with modern antiviral drugs.

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About the service

About the service

Advantages of STD treatment at K+31:

  • We employ qualified gynecologists, urologists, dermatovenerologists
  • Comprehensive rapid diagnostics (multimodal approach). We have the equipment, skills and knowledge to conduct a high-quality examination
  • Individual and confidential approach

Many other infections that are not considered STDs, including salmonellosis, shigellosis, campylobacteriosis, amebiasis, giardiasis, hepatitis (A, B and C) and cytomegalovirus infection - can be transmitted sexually.

Table: Types of sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Category of sexually transmitted diseases Examples of sexually transmitted diseases Characteristics and consequences
Bacterial infections
  • Syphilis (Treponema pallidum)
  • Gonorrhea (Neisseria gonorrhoeae)
  • Chlamydia (Chlamydia trachomatis)
  • Mycoplasmosis and ureaplasmosis
Effectively treated with antibiotics. Without treatment, they lead to infertility and systemic organ damage.
Viral infections
  • Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
  • Genital herpes
  • Human papillomavirus (HPV)
  • Hepatitis B and C
Rarely curable, but controllable. Reduces the risk of complications and transmission of infection when using therapy.
Protozoal infections Trichomoniasis (Trichomonas vaginalis) Often asymptomatic, increase susceptibility to other infections.
Fungal infections Candidiasis (thrush) Not always sexually transmitted, but symptoms are similar to STIs. Occurs with weakened immunity.
Symptoms of sexually transmitted infections

There are common symptoms that indicate sexually transmitted diseases in women and men:

  • Venal discharge
  • Itching, burning, irritation in the genital area
  • Pain when urinating
  • Discomfort during intimacy
  • Redness, swelling of the genitals
  • Enlarged lymph nodes in the groin area

Each disease has its own specific signs. For example, trichomoniasis in women is accompanied by abundant foamy discharge of a gray-yellow color with an unpleasant odor, itching and burning. Gonorrhea in men is manifested by pain when urinating and purulent discharge, in women - intermenstrual bleeding, pain in the lower abdomen, redness of the vulva. HPV is accompanied by the formation of warts or papillomas on the mucous membranes, which vary in shape and size.

STIs during pregnancy

Sexually transmitted infections can negatively affect the health of a pregnant woman and the development of the child. You should seek medical help if you have the following symptoms:

  • Abnormal discharge with an unpleasant odor
  • Itching or burning in the genital area
  • Drawing pain in the lower abdomen
  • Pain or discomfort during intercourse
  • Frequent and painful urge to urinate

Regular medical examinations allow you to detect a sexually transmitted disease in time and begin treatment, which reduces the risk of complications for the mother and child.

Causes of sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections occur due to the entry of pathogenic microorganisms into the body: bacteria, viruses, protozoa.

The main routes of infection include:

  • Vaginal, anal or oral sexual contact
  • Using a shared razor, toothbrush, towels on which the biological fluids of an infected person remain
  • Transmission from mother to child during pregnancy or childbirth

It is recommended to maintain personal hygiene, use barrier methods of contraception and limit the number of sexual partners.

Incubation period and disease development

Incubation period and disease development

The incubation period is the time between infection and the appearance of the first symptoms. Its duration depends on the pathogen and the state of the immune system.

Approximate incubation periods of sexually transmitted diseases:

  • Gonorrhea - 2-10 days, most often the first signs appear within 3-7 days
  • Chlamydia - 7-21 days
  • Syphilis - 3-4 weeks
  • Genital herpes - 2-14 days
  • HIV - 3 weeks-3 months

The duration of the incubation period of a sexually transmitted disease depends on several factors. Among them:

  • The number of pathogenic microorganisms that have entered the body
  • The state of the immune system
  • The presence of other diseases that weaken the immune system

In women, the incubation period is usually longer due to the structural features of the reproductive system.

What happens during the incubation period?

The causative agent of the disease actively multiplies in the body, which makes the infected person a carrier of a venereal infection. When the incubation period ends, the disease goes into an acute stage, which is manifested by the first symptoms. If the disease is not treated at this stage, it becomes chronic, which complicates therapy and increases the likelihood of severe complications.

Some pathogens, such as the human papillomavirus, are in the body for a long time without visible signs. The absence of symptoms does not mean safety for the patient. Such sexually transmitted diseases lead to serious consequences, including the development of malignant tumors.

Diagnosis of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Identifying sexually transmitted infections is a crucial step toward successful treatment. There are several diagnostic methods for women and men that help determine the type of infection and identify its causative agent.

Microscopic Method

Involves examining samples of secretions from the male urethra, vagina, or cervix under a microscope. It is used to detect gonococci, chlamydia, and trichomonas. This simple and convenient method is suitable for the initial diagnosis of sexually transmitted diseases but does not cover the full spectrum of STIs.

Cultural Method

Culture involves taking material from the genital organs and applying it to a nutrient medium, where a colony of microorganisms forms. This method accurately identifies the type of pathogen and its sensitivity to antibiotics. The waiting time for results significantly exceeds other methods, making it less convenient for urgent diagnostics.

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

A modern method based on detecting the DNA of the causative agent of sexually transmitted diseases in women and men. Suitable for analyzing various types of biological materials: secretions, scrapings, or blood. PCR guarantees up to 97% accuracy, making it one of the most reliable methods for detecting STIs in the early stages of the disease or with minimal amounts of pathogens.

Blood Test

Blood from men and women is tested for antibodies or antigens, which helps identify sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV, syphilis, or viral hepatitis. This method takes time, as antibodies do not appear immediately but several weeks after infection. Blood tests are more often used to confirm a diagnosis or monitor treatment results.

Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)

ELISA is used to detect antibodies to viral sexually transmitted diseases, such as HIV or hepatitis. The study helps determine the presence of infection and assess the activity of the body's immune response. This method is used in comprehensive examinations to confirm the diagnosis after preliminary tests.

Treatment of sexually transmitted infections

Antibiotic therapy

Therapy for sexually transmitted infections requires a comprehensive approach, which is selected individually depending on the type of pathogen and the stage of the disease. The main goal of treatment is to eliminate the sexually transmitted disease, relieve symptoms and prevent possible complications.

Antibiotic therapy is used to treat bacterial infections. The selection of drugs is carried out by a doctor based on the type of pathogen and the patient's well-being.

For chlamydia, azithromycin or doxycycline are often prescribed, which effectively destroy bacteria inside cells. The duration of treatment is from one to two weeks. It is important that both partners undergo treatment at the same time, even if one of them has no symptoms. This prevents re-infection and promotes complete recovery.

Antiviral treatment

HIV or herpes require the use of antiviral drugs. They help control the viral load and slow the progression of the disease. To combat herpes, drugs containing acyclovir are used. It reduces the frequency of exacerbations and alleviates symptoms.

Nuance! Despite high efficiency, it is still impossible to completely cure viral venereal diseases.

The main goal of therapy for both women and men is to control the course of the disease and reduce the risk of transmission.

Immunomodulators and supportive therapy

To effectively combat infection and increase the body's defenses, doctors prescribe immunomodulators. Additionally, vitamin complexes and probiotics are used to restore normal intestinal microflora after a course of antibiotics.

Physiotherapy treatment

In the presence of complications or chronic inflammation in the pelvic organs, physiotherapy is used. Magnetic therapy and laser therapy have proven themselves well. The procedures improve blood circulation, accelerate tissue regeneration, reduce inflammation caused by venereal disease. They also enhance the effect of drug treatment and speed up the recovery process.

Prevention

To avoid sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), it is important to follow these recommendations:

  1. Use barrier contraception. Condoms protect against most STDs and unwanted pregnancy. Effectiveness depends on correct use and absence of damage
  2. Avoid casual sex and limit the number of partners
  3. Wash regularly before and after sex to reduce the risk of infection
  4. Get tested for STDs at least once a year
  5. See a doctor at the first unpleasant symptoms or after unprotected sex
  6. Get tested together with your partner. If an STD is detected in one of the partners, treating the other helps to avoid re-infection

You can get treatment for sexually transmitted infections at the K+31 medical center in Moscow. We guarantee confidentiality, modern equipment and an individual approach. In the clinic "K+31" you will receive a high level of service at average prices for Moscow. Trust your health to professionals!

Prevention

Answers to popular questions

Doctors of "K+31" answer frequently asked questions about sexually transmitted diseases.

Can sexually transmitted infections go away without treatment in women?

No, without treatment, STDs do not disappear. Symptoms may decrease, but the infectious disease itself will remain, which threatens to become chronic and cause infertility.

How long does it take to treat sexually transmitted infections in women?

The duration depends on the STI. Bacterial infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhea are treated with antibiotics within 7–14 days. Viral STIs require ongoing therapy.

How to prepare for a doctor's visit if you suspect a sexually transmitted infection?

Record symptoms: when they started, how severe they are. List sexual partners over the past few months and inform the doctor of any other diseases and medications you are taking.

Can you have sex during treatment?

No, it is better to abstain from sexual activity during treatment. This protects the partner and reduces the burden on the body.

How often should women get tested for STIs?

Get tested at least once a year, especially if you have multiple partners or do not use protection.

How to tell a partner about an STI?

Calmly discuss the issue, explain why it is important for both to get tested and treated. Emphasize that this is a medical issue, not a reason for blame.

Why are sexually transmitted infections increasing?

Reasons include decreased condom use, lack of sexual education, and insufficient access to healthcare services.

What should a woman do after unprotected sex?

See a doctor immediately and get tested, even if there are no symptoms. It is also important for your partner to get tested.

How to prepare for STI testing?

Avoid intimate contact for 24–48 hours before testing and refrain from using topical medications.

Can you get an infection without sexual contact?

Yes, some STIs can be transmitted without sexual contact. HIV, hepatitis B, and syphilis can be transmitted through blood or from mother to child during childbirth.

Can a woman get reinfected with the same STI?

Yes, it is possible. For example, after treatment for chlamydia or gonorrhea, reinfection can occur if you contact an infected partner.

Are there vaccines for sexually transmitted infections?

Yes, there are vaccines for STIs. The most well-known are the HPV vaccine, which reduces the risk of cervical cancer, and the hepatitis B vaccine.

Can STIs be transmitted through oral or anal sex?

Yes, STIs can be transmitted, especially without condom use.

Which age groups are at the highest risk of infection?

Teenagers and young adults aged 15–24 are at the highest risk due to lack of experience and knowledge. Older adults are also at risk as they often neglect protection.

Which doctor treats STIs?

Gynecologists (for women), urologists (for men), and dermatovenereologists (for all) specialize in STI treatment. You can consult any of them.

How to care for yourself during treatment?

Maintain personal hygiene, avoid sexual contact until recovery, and take medications as prescribed by your doctor.

Can test results be inaccurate?

Yes, tests can sometimes give inaccurate results due to improper preparation or individual body characteristics. If in doubt, it is better to retest.

How to protect a child if a woman has an infection?

It is important to treat the infection before or during pregnancy and undergo regular testing. In some cases, a cesarean section may be required to reduce the risk of transmission.

Can you have sex with a condom if one partner has an infection?

A condom reduces the risk of transmission but does not provide full protection. It is better to abstain from sexual contact until full recovery.

Is there a risk of getting an STI through kissing?

Yes, herpes virus can be transmitted through kissing. If the partner has an active infection, the virus can be transmitted through saliva or mucosal injuries.

How to know if an infection has become chronic?

Signs of chronic STIs include periodic pain, discharge, or other symptoms of an infectious disease.

Can an STI cause abdominal or back pain?

Yes, pain in the lower abdomen or back is possible due to inflammation in the pelvic organs. In women, this is often associated with the uterus and ovaries; in men, with the prostate.

Can STIs be contracted in a swimming pool?

No, STIs cannot be contracted in a pool. STI pathogens do not survive in chlorinated water. It is important to avoid sharing towels or contacting surfaces if you have open wounds.

Is there a risk of infection through a toilet seat?

The risk is extremely low. STIs are transmitted through close contact, but with skin injuries, other infections might be possible.

Can tattoos be a source of infection?

Yes, if instruments are not sterile, HIV or hepatitis can be transmitted. Always go to licensed salons that strictly follow hygiene protocols.

Our doctors

Kappusheva
Laura Magomedovna
Deputy chief doctor in gynecology, obstetrician-gynecologist
Kamoeva
Svetlana Viktorovna
Deputy Chief Physician for Obstetrics and Gynecology, obstetrician-gynecologist
Pivovarova
Svetlana Victorovna
Head of the outpatient department, gynecologist, endocrinologist
Shevchuk
Alexei Sergeyevich
Oncogynecology consultant, obstetrician-gynecologist
Pegova
Maria Romanovna
Obstetrician-gynecologist
Smirnova
Angelica Yuryevna
Obstetrician-gynecologist, endocrinologist
Dukhina
Tatiana Alexandrovna
Obstetrician-gynecologist, ultrasound specialist
Sirotinina
Maria Vasilievna
Obstetrician-gynecologist, gynecologist-endocrinologist, ultrasound diagnostics doctor
Grishin
Igor Igorevich
Obstetrician-gynecologist
Gomov
Mikhail Alexandrovich
Consultant in oncogynecology, obstetrician-gynecologist
Kashoyan
Anna Robertovna
Obstetrician-gynecologist, ultrasound diagnostics doctor
Gumerova
Dinara Radikovna
Obstetrician-gynecologist, ultrasound doctor
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