What is a sexually transmitted disease (STD)?

An STD is an illness that is spread through sexual contact.

How can sexually transmitted diseases be avoided?

1. The less sexual partners a person has, the lower the risk of infection from a STD.
   
   
2. Most sexually transmitted diseases can be avoided to a large extent by practicing safe sex and by using a condom.
   
   
3. Most sexually transmitted diseases can be cured if they are diagnosed and treated in their early stages.
   

The most common diseases and their symptoms are described below.

Syphilis

Syphilis is a dangerous and life-threatening bacterial disease. After infection, the bacteria is transported through the body via the bloodstream and adversely affects vital organs such as the heart, brain, nervous system and spine.

The symptoms are divided into three stages.

Up to 12 weeks after the time of infection:

• one or more red lesions will develop on the penis, labia (lips of the vagina), anus and sometimes on the mouth and lips. These lesions disappear after a week.
  
  

1. a red rash appears on the chest, back, arms, legs, hands and soles of the feet
   
   
2. high fever
   
   
3. sore throat
   
   
4. muscular fatigue
   
   
5. general feeling of discomfort.
   
   

1. heart failure
   
   
2. paralysis
   
   
3. insanity
   
   
4. possible death.
   
   

The diagnosis is made through the detection of the micro-organism or the detection of antibodies in the blood. In its early stages, syphilis can easily be treated with antibiotics.

How to avoid sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)

Avoid high-risk behaviours and practise safe sex.

1. Though not necessarily practical or desirable, abstinence is the only way to completely prevent STDs.
   
   
2. Avoid sex with many different partners.
   
   
3. Always use condoms.