Women’s Health

The number of reported cases of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is increasing at an alarming rate. Lisa Jewell looks at the most common diseases that are doing the rounds and discusses the key things every woman should know about STIs

Let's face it, no one really wants to talk about sexually transmitted infections. They are the downside to an activity that can be a lot of fun and a way to create more intimacy with your partner. But unfortunately, the stigma that still surrounds sexually transmitted infections (STIs) means that many thousands of people are undiagnosed and passing on infection to others. We take a look at the most common STIs (also called STDs) and discuss the implications for women's health.

CHLAMYDIA This is a bacterial infection of the genital tract that spreads easily through sexual contact. Symptoms don't always present themselves so it is important to go for STI testing if you have had unprotected sex or have a partner who has recently had unprotected sex. There can be serious consequences if chlamydia is left untreated – it can cause Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, which can affect your fertility and chances of
having a child.

BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS This is an infection of the vagina that's often characterised by itchiness and excessive discharge. Some research indicates there's a link with sexual activity, but there's no definitive evidence that it is spread through sex. Bacterial vaginosis is associated with pelvic inflammatory disease, and it may increase the risk of HIV infection.

GONORRHOEA Sometimes referred to as 'the clap', this is caused by a bacterium that spreads through sexual contact. It can produce symptoms such as a burning sensation when urinating or a thick discharge from the penis or vagina. This STI can also cause Pelvic Inflammatory Disease.

GENITAL HERPES Caused by a strain of the Herpes Simplex virus, it involves pain, itching and painful sores in the genital area. It can be passed on through vaginal, anal and oral sex. Once infected, the herpes virus remains in your body for the rest of your life but you can go through periods where it becomes inactive and doesn't cause outbreaks.

SCABIES An itchy condition caused by a mite. It can be spread through close physical contact, not just sexual intercourse.

TRICHOMONIASIS This is an STI that can cause vaginitis (vaginal inflammation) in women and infect a man's urethra.

HEPATITIS B This is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus. In some people, it can develop into a serious illness but most people recover fully from the virus.

HEPATITIS C Another liver infection but this time caused by the hepatitis C virus. It's transmitted mostly by exposure to blood infected with the virus, but there is still a risk through sexual contact.

PUBIC LICE Also known as 'crabs', this involves small lice that live in pubic hair and are spread by close body contact, especially during sex.

HIV/AIDS HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus and is the virus that can go on to cause AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). Figures released by St James's Hospital, Dublin last December showed that there was a significant increase of new cases of HIV in Ireland in 2009. The highest figures of HIV infection are in the heterosexual population.

YEAST INFECTIONS Women usually develop yeast infections in their bodies and don't get them through sex. However, they can pass them on to male partners through unprotected sex.

HUMAN PAPILLOMA VIRUS More than 100 types of this virus have been categorised. Most of them are relatively harmless but a few are responsible for diseases like cervical cancer and genital warts. Genital warts are not harmful and don’t increase the risk of cancer or reduce fertility. However, they do look unslightly and can be uncomfortable for the person who has them. It is possible to contract HPV and for the body to clear it of its own accord but it is best to try and avoid getting it in the first place.

SYPHILIS Many people assume this disease had long died out but it has shown resurgence in the last decade. Syphilis is a bacterial infection usually transmitted by sexual contact. Left untreated, it can lead to serious complications or death but with treatment (usually penicillin), it can be successfully treated.