Sexually Transmitted Diseases in Women - Causes & Symptoms

Sexually transmitted infections are one of the biggest concerns among sexually active people. Contracting an STI is no less than a nightmare coming true. 

About 28.1 % of women in India are found to be infected with STIs. That’s a big number for STI women population in India alone. But what can be done? What measures can be taken? 

Well, becoming aware of the STD symptoms in females is step 1. So, let’s dive deep and take that first step together.

What Are STIs and STDs, and How Does One Contract them?

STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections) and STDs (Women Sexually Transmitted Diseases) are often used interchangeably, but there's a subtle difference. 

STIs refer to infections caused by pathogens transmitted through sexual activities, while STDs are diseases that result from untreated STIs. 

Causes of STD in Female

• Unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected partner.
• Sharing contaminated needles or syringes.
• Transmission from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth or breastfeeding.
• Skin-to-skin contact with infected areas (e.g., herpes or HPV).
• Engaging in sexual activities with multiple or high-risk partners.
• Not using condoms or barrier methods during sex.
• Having sex with someone unaware of their STI status or not regularly tested.
• Using unclean sex toys.
• Rare cases of STIs are transmitted through non-sexual means (bodily fluids or tissues).
• Blood transfusion risk (rare in developed countries due to strict screening).

Tip: Always follow the safe sex practices recommended by doctors and STI preventive tips.

Woman's Sexually Transmitted Disease

Here are some common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) that affect women, along with their symptoms, possible treatments, and effects on the body:

Chlamydia

Symptoms: Often asymptomatic, but may cause abnormal vaginal discharge, painful urination, lower abdominal pain, and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in severe cases.

Treatment: Antibiotics, such as azithromycin or doxycycline, can effectively treat chlamydia.

Effects on the body: If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to complications like PID, which can damage the reproductive organs and cause infertility.

Gonorrhoea

Symptoms: Similar to chlamydia, gonorrhea may also be asymptomatic but can cause painful urination, abnormal vaginal discharge, and pelvic pain.

Treatment: Antibiotics like ceftriaxone or cefixime are used to treat gonorrhoea.

Effects on the body: Untreated gonorrhoea can lead to PID and complications like ectopic pregnancies or infertility.

Book test for Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea online today with Newmi Care!

Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)

Symptoms: Often asymptomatic, but certain strains of HPV can cause genital warts or abnormal Pap smear results.

Treatment: There is no cure for HPV, but genital warts can be removed, and the HPV vaccine can prevent infection with certain high-risk strains.

Effects on the body: Persistent infection with high-risk HPV strains can increase the risk of cervical, vaginal, vulvar, anal, and throat cancers.

Herpes simplex Virus (HSV)

Symptoms: Painful genital sores, itching, and flu-like symptoms during initial outbreaks.

Treatment: Antiviral medications like acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir can help manage herpes outbreaks.

Effects on the body: HSV is a lifelong infection, and outbreaks may recur during times of stress or weakened immunity.

Syphilis:

Symptoms: Syphilis progresses through primary, secondary, and latent stages, with symptoms like painless sores, rash, fever, and fatigue.

Treatment: Penicillin is the preferred treatment for syphilis at various stages.

Effects on the body: Untreated syphilis can lead to severe complications affecting the heart, brain, and nervous system.

Trichomoniasis

Symptoms: Vaginal itching, burning, and frothy greenish-yellow vaginal discharge with a strong odor.

Treatment: Oral antibiotics like metronidazole or tinidazole can cure trichomoniasis.

Effects on the body: Trichomoniasis during pregnancy may increase the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight.

It's crucial for women to practice safe sex, get regular STD screenings, and seek medical attention promptly if they experience any concerning symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and protect overall reproductive health.

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

Symptoms: Vaginal discharge with a fishy odor, itching, and burning.

Treatment: Antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Effects: BV can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) if left untreated, potentially causing fertility issues or pregnancy complications.

You can book an online test for 8 common STIs and get earlier treatment if the results are positive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Although we have covered all the important topics in our blog, we understand that you might still have a few questions or doubts. That’s why we have listed some of the most commonly asked questions for you, Have a look:

What are the first signs of an STD in a woman?

Abnormal vaginal discharge, painful urination, genital itching, and blisters or bumps in the genital region are early symptoms of STDs in females. For those who engage in sexual activity, routine testing is necessary because many STDs may not manifest any symptoms.

Would I know if I had an STD female?

No, you might not always know if you have had a female who is STD-positive. It is so because many STDs can be asymptomatic in women, and transmission can occur without visible signs or symptoms.

Which STD is most common in females?

HPV (Human Papillomavirus) ranks as the most common STD in females. Symptoms may include genital warts, abnormal vaginal bleeding, and a higher risk of cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers.

What are the common sexually transmitted infections in women?

Some of the most common sexually transmitted infections in women are Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, HPV (Human Papillomavirus), Genital Herpes, Trichomoniasis, Syphilis, HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), Bacterial Vaginosis (BV).

The Bottom Line

Symptoms of STDs in women call for attention, and any sign of STDs shouldn’t be ignored. Now that you have an idea of STD symptoms, most common STIs, and possible treatments, be careful. 

And if you are experiencing any of the STI symptoms, women, then get a consultation scheduled now!