Hey y’all! I’m Lado, a practicing Medical Doctor working in the Blantyre CBD. In recent months working here, I’ve encountered a multitude of cases involving Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI’s) among singles and couples. Let’s start off with Rachael* who is a 31-year-old mother of 2.
She recently got into a serious relationship after parting with the kids’ father. However, her new partner wisely insisted on getting tested before embarking on their journey together. Unbeknownst to many, you can contract an STI without exhibiting any symptoms. So, it raises questions like what is an STI and what can be done about it? A number of microorganisms can cause Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) or infections (STIs), be they viral, parasitic or bacterial.
According the World Health Organization (WHO) there are a staggering 374 million new cases of STIs every year! Based on the 1 in 4 curable STIs – chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis and trichomoniasis. Unfortunately, diagnosis of STIs is often overlooked. Treatment options vary due to the diverse causes of STIs; of course, prevention is better than cure. Therefore, condoms provide protection against HIV and other STIs, but not extra-genital ulcers seen in herpes or syphilis.
Vaccines against Hepatitis B and HPV are widely available too. Coupled with informed knowledge, post/pre-exposure prophylaxis (PEP and PrEP), adult voluntary male circumcision and microbicides, treatment outcomes are better overall. Returning to Rachael’s case, we later discovered she tested positive for “the clap”, or gonorrhoea. She didn’t have any obvious symptoms like an unusual discharge, pelvic pain or painful urination and was considered asymptomatic.
She was diagnosed prior to any sexual encounter with her new partner; we treated her and advised her on her condition. She was grateful for the treatment, and we were happy to help, all was right with the world… So, the next time you feel any discomfort around or involving your genital area, feel free to consult a medical professional on advice and treatment. You’ll be A-Okay in no time!
Given the global scope of STIs to sexual and reproductive health, it’s tricky to delve into the details of STIs in one reading; rest assured I’ll do my best on keeping you informed! Until Next Time.
Names have been changed to protect the patients real identities
References
» Morris, Sheldon R., MD, MPH, Overview of Sexually Transmitted Infections, Merck’s Manual 20th Edition, NJ, 2023 https://www.cdc.gov/std/default.htm
» Workowski KA, Bachmann LH, Chan PA, et al: Sexually Transmitted Infections Treatment Guidelines, 2021 https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/ detail/sexually-transmitted-infections-(stis)
