Question

STDs are a threat to reproductive health. Describe any two such diseases and suggest preventive measures.

Answer 1

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)

Infections or diseases that are transmitted through sexual intercourse are collectively called sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or venereal diseases (VD) or reproductive tract infections (RTI). These include gonorrhoea, syphilis, genital herpes, chlamydiasis, genital warts, trichomoniasis, hepatitis B and HIV. 

Early symptoms: Itching, fluid discharge, slight pain and swellings in the genital region.

Complications due to chronic STDs: Pelvic inflammatory diseases (PID), abortions, still births, ectopic pregnancies, infertility, or even cancer of the reproductive tract. 

Transmission of hepatitis B and HIV occurs by the following ways: 

1. Sharing of injection needles or surgical instruments with infected persons; 
2. Transfusion of infected blood; 
3. Transfer from the infected mother to the foetus through placenta.

By following simple principles, STDs can be prevented: 

1. Avoid sex with unknown partners/multiple partners.
2. Always use condoms during coitus.
3. Contact a qualified doctor for any doubt, in early stage of infection.