Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)

What Causes Sexually Transmitted Diseases?

As the name implies, sexually transmitted diseases are primarily caused by sexual contact. These diseases can be broken up into three categories, bacterial, parasitical, and viral. Bacterial and parasitical infections like gonorrhea can typically be treated with antibiotic medication.

Viruses like human papillomavirus and HIV require prolonged treatment and management. Along with these examples, some STDs like hepatitis can be transmitted without sexual activity.

How Serious Are STDs?

Sexually transmitted diseases can pose lifelong complications. Illnesses like HIV and AIDs, can leave you severely immunocompromised while diseases like syphilis can progress and become life threatening. In any case, it is important to take STDs seriously and get tested regularly if you are sexually active. Most STD tests involve a simple blood draw or urine sample and can be performed in a matter of minutes.

What Are Some Types of STDs?

Different types of sexually transmitted diseases can be passed from one person to another. If you have ever had unprotected sex, you may have been exposed to an STD.

The most common STDs include:

• Genital warts
• Bacterial vaginosis
• Chlamydia
• Syphilis
• Human papilloma virus (HPV)
• Trichomoniasis
• Genital herpes
• Gonorrhea
• HIV

If you think you may have been exposed to one of these STDs, talk to your best rated NYC gynecologist about being tested. Some kinds of cancer such as cervical and rectal cancers may be a complication of an STD if you don’t receive prompt treatment.

Untreated STDs can lead to other serious complications too, such as:

• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Infertility

What Are the Available Treatment Options?

Birth control services and STD counseling are the primary options we can provide for addressing STDs. Additionally, we can offer testing to determine what, if any, STD you may be suffering from. Once we’ve identified your issue, we can offer ongoing counseling and support to help you manage your condition effectively.

At Cohen Medical Practice, we strive to deliver the best health care services in NYC. Visit one of our offices today and experience what we have to offer firsthand.