Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) How to Handle With Herbs

STI and STD — Sexually Transmitted Diseases

What are STIs

STI typically stands for Sexually Transmitted Infection, which is an infection transmitted through sexual contact, caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections that can be passed through sexual activity and sometimes during childbirth.

When STIs are treated early, you can prevent many of the negative outcomes of STIs, including infertility in both men and women. Testing and treatment are important for sexually active people and pregnant women.

There are many different types of STIs. Some of these have symptoms, while others don’t. Some symptoms may take longer to appear. If you have an STI but have no symptoms, you could still pass the STI on to other sexual partners.

Types of STIs

Here are some common types of STIs:

Bacterial STIs:

Chlamydia: Often asymptomatic, can cause pain during intercourse and discharge.
Gonorrhea: This may result in a burning sensation when urinating and discharge from the genitals.
Syphilis: Can present in several stages, from sores to serious internal organ damage if left untreated.

Viral STIs:

HIV: Attacks the immune system, leading to AIDS if not treated.
Genital herpes: Causes painful blisters on the genital area.
HPV infection and genital warts: Can lead to cervical cancer and other types of cancer.
Hepatitis A, B, and C: Affects the liver, with varying severity and treatment options.

Parasitic STIs:

Trichomoniasis: Usually causes itching, burning, and discharge from the genitals

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), More than 30 different bacteria, viruses and parasites are known to be transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal and oral sex. Some STIs can also be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding. Eight pathogens are linked to the greatest incidence of STIs. Of these, 4 are currently curable: syphilis, gonorrhoea, chlamydia and trichomoniasis. The other 4 are incurable viral infections: hepatitis B, herpes simplex virus (HSV), HIV and human papillomavirus (HPV).

Symptoms of STIs

The symptoms of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) can vary widely depending on the type of infection. However, some common symptoms include:

Unusual discharge from the penis or vagina.
Sores or warts on the genital area.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Painful or frequent urination.
Itching and redness in the genital area.
Blisters or sores in or around the mouth.
Abnormal vaginal odor.
Anal itching, soreness, or bleeding.

Common symptoms

Many people often don’t notice symptoms when they have an STI.

Left untreated, STIs can affect your health. If you have any of the symptoms listed below, we recommend getting tested as soon as possible.

In women and men:

Pain when you urinate
Itching, burning or tingling around the genitals
Blisters, sores, spots or lumps around the genitals or anus
Black powder or tiny white dots in your underwear – this could be droppings or eggs from pubic lice.

In women:

Yellow or green vaginal discharge
Discharge that smells
Bleeding between periods or after sex
Pain during sex
Lower abdominal pain.

In men:

Discharge from the penis
Irritation of the urethra (the tube urine comes out of).

It’s important to note that many STIs can be asymptomatic, meaning they do not show symptoms. That’s why sexually transmitted infections may go unnoticed until complications arise or a partner is diagnosed. Regular screening and safe sexual practices are crucial for sexual health.

Causes of Sexually Transmitted Infections

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are caused by a variety of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites. These pathogens can be transmitted through sexual contact, which includes vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Here are the major causes of STIs:

Bacteria: This includes infections like Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Syphilis.
Viruses: Such as HIV/AIDS, Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), Human Papillomavirus (HPV), Hepatitis B, and others.
Parasites: For example, Trichomoniasis, which is caused by a protozoan parasite.

In addition to sexual contact, STIs can also be transmitted through non-sexual means such as blood transfusions, shared needles, and from mother to child during pregnancy and childbirth. It’s important to note that not all STIs show symptoms, so regular screening and preventive measures are key to maintaining sexual health. If you have any concerns or symptoms, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional for advice and treatment.

How to Prevent Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STIs)

Preventing Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STIs) involves several strategies to reduce the risk of transmission. Here are some key prevention methods:

Abstinence: The most reliable way to avoid STIs is to not have sex, which includes vaginal, oral, or anal sex.
Vaccination: Vaccines are effective in preventing certain STIs, such as hepatitis B and HPV. HPV vaccination is recommended for preteens and young adults.
Reduce Number of Sex Partners: Limiting the number of sexual partners can decrease the risk of STIs.
Mutual Monogamy: Engaging in a long-term, mutually monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner is one of the most reliable ways to avoid STIs.
Use Condoms: Correct and consistent use of condoms greatly reduces the risk of STI transmission. This applies to all forms of sexual activity.
Regular Testing: Many STIs do not show symptoms, so regular testing is important for early detection and treatment. Encourage your partner to get tested as well.

It’s also important to have open and honest conversations with your partner(s) about STIs and sexual health. If you test positive for an STI, prompt treatment is crucial to prevent further transmission and complications. For more detailed information, you can refer to resources provided by health organizations like the CDC and WHO.

Herbal Treatments for STIs

Here are some common natural remedies:

Hyssop

Star Anise (Illicium verum)

Locust Beans (Parkia biglobosa)

Cone flower (Echinacea purpurea)

Newbouldia (Newbouldia laevis) Plant

Sage Plant (Salvia officinalis)

Blue Vervain Plant

Garlic: Known for its antibacterial and antiviral properties, garlic is sometimes used as a natural remedy.
Tea Tree Oil: Applied topically, it may help with symptoms of infections like herpes due to its antiviral properties.
Echinacea: Believed to boost the immune system, it might help manage symptoms of certain STIs.
Goldenseal: Often used for its antimicrobial properties, which some believe can help with bacterial STIs.
Turmeric: Contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties and may support immune function.

Facts about STIs From the WHO website

More than 1 million sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are acquired every day worldwide, the majority of which are asymptomatic.
Each year there are an estimated 374 million new infections with 1 of 4 curable STIs: chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis and trichomoniasis.
More than 500 million people 15–49 years old are estimated to have a genital infection with herpes simplex virus (HSV or herpes) (1).
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is associated with over 311,000 cervical cancer deaths each year (2).
Almost 1 million pregnant women were estimated to be infected with syphilis in 2016, resulting in over 350,000 adverse birth outcomes (3).
STIs have a direct impact on sexual and reproductive health through stigmatization, infertility, cancers and pregnancy complications and can increase the risk of HIV.
Drug resistance is a major threat to reducing the burden of STIs worldwide.