Why Men Are In Sexual Danger
The majority of sexually transmitted infections (STDs) afflict both men and women, although the health issues they cause are frequently more common and severe in women.
In fact, the most important thing sexually active men can do to protect themselves and their partners is to get regular STD tests.
What are sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections that transfer from person to person through sexual contact. The most prevalent sort of contact is vaginal, oral, or anal intercourse. They can, however, spread through other intimate physical contact. This is because some STDs, such as herpes and HPV, are transmitted through skin-to-skin contact.
What are the types of STDs?
Some sexually transmitted infections include:
- Genital herpes.
- Vaginitis.
- HIV/AIDS.
- Genital warts.
- Hepatitis B.
- Chlamydia.
- Gonorrhea (sometimes called "clap").
- Trichomoniasis (sometimes called "trick").
Who is at risk of contracting an STD?
Anyone who has sexual contact is at risk of developing an STD. The use of narcotics and other illegal substances can raise the likelihood of developing an STD. STDs can be transmitted through the sharing of needles. Furthermore, being high makes you less inclined to participate in safe sex.
The threat is exacerbated by secrecy about one's sexual orientation. People who are stigmatized by STDs (shame or embarrassment) may be less likely to seek treatment. They may be hesitant to tell others they have an STD. Without treatment, however, people continue to spread the STD to others. It is vital for your and your partners' health and well-being to be upfront about your symptoms and sexual history.
Common Sexually Transmitted Diseases in Men
Some of the most common STDs may not create symptoms in men, yet they can infect men and cause more serious consequences if left untreated.
The absence of symptoms does not rule out the likelihood of consequences.
The following is a list of some of the most prevalent sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in men, along with their symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.
1. Gonorrhea
Many men with gonorrhea often experience no symptoms at all.
However, when men do have symptoms, they can include:
- Painful or burning sensation when urinating
- White, yellow, or green discharge from the penis
- Painful or swollen testicles (less common)
Diagnosis
A simple urine test or swabbing the infected site, such as the genital area, rectum, or throat, can be used to test for gonorrhea.
Treatment
Antibiotics are used to treat gonorrhea.
2.Syphilis
Syphilis symptoms can be difficult to detect and may appear and disappear over time.
The disease can also progress through several stages, each with its own set of symptoms.
Diagnosis
By examining your sores or rashes, a doctor or other health care practitioner may be able to determine whether you are in the main or secondary phases of syphilis.
Others may scrape the chancre and examine the cells under a microscope to look for spirochetes (the bacteria that causes syphilis).
Blood tests can also be utilized to make a diagnosis.
Treatment
Depending on the stage of the disease, there are several treatment options for syphilis.
The most common treatment consists of an injection of ceftriaxone followed by an oral dose of azithromycin (Zithromax, Zmax) or doxycycline (Monodox, Vibramycin).
3. Hepatitis A and B
Men who have sex with other men are more likely to become infected with both the hepatitis A and hepatitis B viruses.
The symptoms of both diseases are similar and can include:
- Extreme fatigue
- Nausea
- Fever
- Dark urine
- Bloated and tender abdomen
- Yellowish-tinged skin and eyes
Diagnosis
Treatment
Most people with hepatitis A or B recover without treatment within 4-8 weeks of the onset of symptoms.
4. HIV
Most men do not develop HIV symptoms for a long time after becoming infected.
It can take 10 years or more for HIV to manifest any symptoms—much longer for people who take HIV medications.In the first 2-4 weeks after being infected with HIV, you may experience:
- Fever
- Body aches
- Nausea
These flu-like symptoms are your body’s first reaction to the HIV infection.
Over time, the damage HIV does to the cells in your immune system can lead to AIDS.
Diagnosis
To diagnose HIV, a test must be performed.
There are various types of tests, such as a cheek swab or a blood test.
If you get tested soon after exposure, known as the "window period," you may still test negative, which is why it's critical to get tested on a regular basis—especially if you suspect you've been exposed to HIV.
Treatment
There is no effective cure for HIV, but with proper medical care, you can control the disease.
HIV is treated with a combination of drugs called antiretroviral therapy (ART). If you’re diagnosed with HIV, you should start your ART right away and take the medication as directed by your doctor to keep your CD4 cell count up and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
5. Trichomoniasis
Is it possible to cure STDs?
Many STDs are treatable. Some, however, such as HIV, require lifetime care and therapy. You can also re-infect yourself with an STD. If you participate in hazardous sexual behavior, you run the danger of re-infection (multiple partners, not using condoms).
Suggestions for Prevention
Anyone who engages in sexual activity runs the risk of contracting an STD.
Here are some precautions you can take:
- Use a condom correctly every time you have sex.
- Limit your number of partners to a few.
- Get vaccinated Maintain an open line of communication with your partner
- Regular testing is required.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If you are suffering any of the following symptoms, especially in your genital area, or feel you may have been exposed to an STD, call your doctor or health care provider straight soon.
Tell your doctor about your sexual activities and let him or her know you wish to be tested.