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Sexually Transmitted Infections Current Approach

Updates in diagnosis treatment and screening strategies for STIs

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Sexually Transmitted Infections Current Approach?

Sexually transmitted infections are infectious diseases transmitted through sexual contact including vaginal anal and oral routes. World Health Organization estimates indicate over one million new treatable STI cases occur globally each day. Major pathogens include Neisseria gonorrhoeae Chlamydia trachomatis Treponema pallidum syphilis Trichomonas vaginalis hepatitis B human papillomavirus herpes simplex and HIV.

Recent epidemiologic trends include increasing syphilis cases especially among men who have sex with men and pregnant women rising gonorrhea antimicrobial resistance threatening treatment options and continued HPV related cancer prevention through vaccination. Pre exposure prophylaxis with tenofovir based regimens prevents HIV acquisition while doxycycline post exposure prophylaxis reduces bacterial STI incidence in high risk populations.

Screening recommendations vary by population age sex and risk factors. Sexually active women under twenty five should receive annual chlamydia and gonorrhea screening. All pregnant women require syphilis HIV hepatitis B and chlamydia testing at first prenatal visit. Men who have sex with men benefit from extragenital chlamydia and gonorrhea testing along with annual syphilis HIV and hepatitis screening. Partner notification expedited partner therapy where legal and counseling on prevention complete comprehensive STI care.

Symptoms

Genital ulcer rash or discharge
Dysuria and urethral or vaginal discharge
Pelvic pain in women
Asymptomatic in many cases
Systemic symptoms in disseminated disease

Risk Factors

Multiple or new sexual partners
Inconsistent condom use
Men who have sex with men
Sex work or transactional sex
Substance use during sex

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When genital symptoms develop
  • When sexual partner is diagnosed with STI
  • When unprotected sex with new partner occurs
  • When pregnancy is planned or confirmed

Treatment Methods

01
Nucleic acid amplification testing for chlamydia gonorrhea
02
Treponemal and non treponemal serology for syphilis
03
HIV antibody antigen combination assay
04
Empiric treatment with culture for resistance assessment
05
Pre exposure prophylaxis for high risk individuals
06
Partner notification and treatment coordination

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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COVID-19

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COVID-19 is a contagious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus with a wide clinical spectrum ranging from asymptomatic to severe pneumonia.

Upper Respiratory Tract Infection

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Upper respiratory tract infections are diseases that include common cold, pharyngitis, sinusitis, and laryngitis, often of viral origin and self-limited.

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Urinary tract infections are common bacterial infections most often caused by Escherichia coli, presenting with burning and frequent urination.

Hepatitis A (HAV)

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Hepatitis A is an acute, self-limited liver infection transmitted via the fecal-oral route causing acute hepatitis without chronicity; supportive care suffices in most cases, while vaccination prevents outbreaks and post-exposure prophylaxis within 2 weeks is effective.

Hepatitis B

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Hepatitis B is a contagious infection caused by HBV virus transmitted via blood, sexual intercourse, and mother-to-child, that can become chronic and progress to cirrhosis and liver cancer.

Hepatitis C

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HIV/AIDS Information

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.