STDs

Sexually transmitted diseases or STD's result from infections, which can be passed on from one person to another during sex. A person can pass it on to another person through vaginal intercourse, anal intercourse and oral sex. There are two main types of STD's, those caused by viruses (more serious) and those caused by bacteria.

The common viral STD's are:

• Genital warts
• Genital herpes
• Hepatitis B
• HIV- the AIDS virus.

Warts and herpes can appear as small sores on the affected areas - usually the penis or vagina. Hepatitis B can infect the liver and cause fever and could be fatal in some cases. HIV is discussed below.

The most common bacterial STD's are:

• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhoea
• Syphilis

STD's can result from small bugs which can infect parts of our bodies such as the groin. Some symptoms may include:

• Unusual discharge from the penis or vagina
• Lumps, sores, rashes, blisters or itching on the genitals
• Pain when urinating

Of course these symptoms may be due to something else, especially if you are not having sex, but if you are then make sure you have regular, general checkups with your doctor.