Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), now called sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are infectious diseases caused by the transmission of pathogens during sexual intercourse. Early detection of an STD is essential to limit the risk of complications.

What is an STD?

STD is the abbreviation for sexually transmitted disease. Formerly known as venereal disease, an STD is an infectious disease that can be caused by various pathogens. These are transmitted during sexual intercourse, regardless of the type, between two partners. Some STDs can also be transmitted through blood and breast milk.

What are the main STDs (STIs)?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the eight pathogenic germs mentioned above are involved in the majority of STI cases. These include:

1. Syphilis, an infection with the bacterium Treponema pallidum, which manifests as a chancre and can progress and lead to other complications if not treated in time;
2. gonorrhoea, also called gonorrhea or "hot piss", which corresponds to an infection by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae;
3. Chlamydia, often called chlamydia, which is caused by infection with the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis and is one of the most common STIs in Western countries;
4. Infection with the hepatitis B virus (HBV), which results in liver damage;
5. Genital herpes, caused by the Herpes simplex virus, mostly type 2 (HSV-2), manifests as vesicular lesions on the genitals;
6. Infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which is responsible for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS);
7. Infection with the human papillomavirus, which can cause the appearance of condylomas, external genital lesions, and which can promote the development of cervical cancer.

AIDS

HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, is a type of virus that can cause a disease called AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). HIV infection attacks the immune system, which is the body's natural defenses against disease. If left untreated, serious illnesses can develop. Normally mild infections, such as the flu or bronchitis, can worsen, become very difficult to treat, or even lead to death. In addition, the risk of cancer is also increased.

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