You may acquire STI via _______.
skin to skin
It depends on the infection; sex isn’t the only mode of transmission.
What are superinfections?
- Combination of 2 or more infections at the same time
- Occurs in a host with a very weak immune system
Example: HIV with weak immunity can acquire other infections such as gonorrhea.
True or false: Once acquired, HIV can be removed from the body.
FALSE
HIV remains in the body forever.
What are the initial symptoms of gonorrhea?
- Mucopurulent discharge
- No signs in early stages
Late stages may show odor from the reproductive system.
What factors can increase sexual activity and STI transmission?
- Availability of IUD and oral contraceptives
- Younger age
- Multiple sex partners
- IV drug use
- Poor hygiene
These factors contribute to higher risks of experimenting with sexual activities.
What are the diagnostic tests for STIs?
- Culture of tissue (endocervix/urethra)
- Test for antibodies to chlamydia
- PCR or ligase chain reaction
- Urinalysis
These tests help identify the microorganism causing the infection.
What is the treatment for non-pregnant women with gonorrhea?
- Azithromycin (single oral dose)
- Doxycycline (2x/day for 7 days)
Pregnant women require different treatment due to potential risks.
What are the clinical stages of syphilis?
- Primary Syphilis
- Secondary Syphilis
- Latent Syphilis
- Tertiary Stage Syphilis
Each stage has distinct symptoms and timeframes.
What are the symptoms of secondary syphilis?
- Skin rashes on palms and soles
- Mucous patches in mouth
- Generalized lymphadenopathy
- Condylomata lata
These symptoms appear 6 weeks to 6 months after the initial chancre.
What is the treatment for primary and secondary syphilis?
- Benzathine penicillin G (single dose IM)
- Doxycycline for clients allergic to penicillin
Penicillin is preferred due to its effectiveness.
What are genital warts caused by?
human papillomavirus (HPV)
Mainly HPV types 6 and 11 cause these small bumps or growths.
What is the mode of transmission for herpes?
- Skin-to-skin contact
- Oral sex
HSV-2 is the most common cause, but HSV-1 can also cause genital herpes.
What is the main symptom of pubic lice?
intense itching (pruritus)
Symptoms are often worse at night.
What is the treatment for vulvovaginitis?
- Topical azoles (clotrimazole, miconazole)
- Fluconazole (150 mg PO single dose)
Not recommended during pregnancy.
What are the risk factors for balanoposthitis?
- Uncircumcised
- Poor hygiene
- Diabetes
These factors can lead to inflammation of the glans penis and foreskin.
What is the diagnostic test for candidiasis?
- Wet mount/KOH: budding yeast or pseudohyphae
Normal vaginal pH is usually <4.5.
