Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are infections that can be contracted through unprotected sex (risky sex). These used to be referred to as venereal diseases, named after Venus, the ancient Roman goddess of love. These are among the most common and frequent infections. Some are trivial, others are much more serious, so it is imperative to know about them to be able to protect yourself adequately under any circumstances. Anyone can be infected, even without knowing it. Contagion occurs through sexual intercourse, but for some diseases (HPV, for example), even simple contact is enough to cause an infection. The infection may be caused by bacteria, such as with syphilis and gonorrhea, by parasites such as Trichomonas, by fungi such as Candida, or by viruses such as Papillomavirus (there are more than 120 types, of which about 40 are associated with infections of the genital area), Herpes (genital or labial) and HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.
These are mostly transmitted through risky sex with an infected partner. Some STDs are also transmitted through blood (ex. AIDS and hepatitis B) or saliva (hepatitis B). Some infections can also be spread through contact with infected sheets or toilets.
Girls are the most sensitive, but boys are also affected in a more subtle way.
Often, these infections are invisible. In other words, they do not show any apparent symptoms when contracted, making it more difficult to recognize them. If they are not treated immediately, some STDs can cause serious complications.
