The ‘How’ of STIs

In today’s vibrant lifestyle, nearly every sexually active individual is at a potential risk of contracting STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections).

Although the concepts of ‘protected’ sex and using fresh needles have spread rapidly in the 21^st century, it is imperative to understand the transmission dynamics of STIs (such as HIV Infection, Chlamydiasis, Gonorrhea, Hepatitis B, Genital Herpes, Genital Warts, etc.)

Medically, we can classify the transmission of such rampant infections as vertical and contact-mediated.

Vertical transmission is the transmission of STIs from a mother to her child via blood (as in the case of HIV infection and Hepatitis B) or body fluids (Like amniotic fluids as in the case of HIV Infection and Hepatitis B, vaginal secretions as in the cases of Genital Herpes and Gonorrhea, cervical secretions as in the case of Chlamydiasis or milk as in the cases of Hepatitis B and HIV Infections).

Contact-mediated transmission is the transmission of STIs via sexual contact and is the most common mode of transmission.

Having said all this, I cannot stress enough on the adage “Prevention is better than cure.”

Once contracted, the eradication of STIs becomes quite difficult and they are often fatal when detected at later stages in some cases.

So, on a farewell note, I wish my readers a healthy, STI-free and happening life ahead.

– By Rohan Basak for MTTN

Delve deeper into our series on STD Awareness.