Not sexually. Classification of genital infections. Post-sex hygiene measures to protect against infection

Chlamydia, human papillomavirus (HPV), genital warts (genital warts), chancre and syphilis (chancre), urethritis and vaginitis of gonococcal (gonorrhea) and non-gonococcal (non-specific) nature.

Chlamydia a bacterial infection spread by vaginal, oral, and anal intercourse. In women, chlamydia can also cause other pelvic organs, which are in the first place among the causes of ectopic pregnancies and female infertility. In men, chlamydial infection is manifested by inflammation of the urethra and epididymis (the organ in which sperm accumulates).

Gonorrhea (gonorrhea) a bacterial disease caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae is transmitted through vaginal, oral and anal intercourse. It usually appears in people who have multiple sexual partners, especially those who prefer unprotected intercourse. Gonorrhea is relatively easy to treat, but in the absence of adequate and timely treatment, it can cause dangerous complications. Immunity to gonococcus is not produced, and a person can get sick again. This disease in men is manifested by purulent discharge from the penis, pain and burning sensation when urinating, itching in the anal area and (rarely) severe pain in the intestines with blood streaks in the stool. In women, soreness is found during vaginal intercourse, pain and burning sensation when urinating, yellow and red vaginal discharge, acute pain, fever and vaginal bleeding. Newborn babies can become infected with gonorrhea when passing through the birth canal, while a few days after birth, yellow purulent discharge from the eyes appears.

Genital herpes highly contagious viral disease, transmitted through sexual contact and enters the body through microcracks in the skin. The causative agent of the disease is the herpes virus of the second type. The main manifestations last three to four weeks, include tingling or mild soreness in the genital area, itching, small painful blisters and sores in the anus, buttocks or thighs, severe burning, especially when in contact with urine, an increase in the inguinal lymph nodes. Even after the symptoms disappear, the virus remains in the body for life, periodically causing exacerbations. It is very important for pregnant women to treat herpes before delivery, as the virus can be transmitted to the baby through the birth canal. This can lead to blindness, brain damage, and sometimes death of the child.

Syphilis a very contagious infection caused by spirochetes and transmitted by any type of intercourse. The disease is most common among people with multiple sexual partners, especially those who do not use barrier methods of contraception. The first stage of the disease begins approximately 10 days after infection and manifests itself as a painless hard chancre (ulcer) on the external genitals, anus, and less often fingers, hands, the infection can be brought into the oral cavity. As a result, the same ulcers appear in the mouth and throat. Another characteristic symptom is enlarged lymph nodes. If untreated, the infection progresses and can progress into the following two stages. The third is the most severe. It is characterized by the appearance throughout the body (including the palms and soles), which may be persistent or recurrent, ulcers in the mouth and throat, swollen lymph nodes throughout the body, bone pain, fever, loss of appetite, and hair loss, meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain). At this stage, serious complications arise, such as paralysis, deviations, mental illness. The damage to the body can be severe enough to cause death.

STD symptoms

Unusual discharge from the genitals
- various outgrowths of the mucous membrane of the external genital organs,
itching
- wounds and ulcers,
- skin rash,
- pain and burning sensation when urinating.

What can you do

If you suspect you have an STD, consult your doctor, as only a doctor can confirm the diagnosis and begin treatment. Don't try to heal yourself.
Even if the symptoms disappear, complete the course prescribed for you, because an infection in the body may still be present.

Be sure to tell your sexual partner about the detected infection and make sure that he also undergoes medication, otherwise you may get infected again. Refuse sexual intercourse during treatment. Use condoms.

What a doctor can do

The doctor will order an examination. You and your partner must get tested to confirm the infection. After the examination, the doctor should prescribe the appropriate therapy. The choice of medication depends on the identified pathogen. After the end of the course of treatment, you need to re-take tests to make sure that you are really cured.

Infectious diseases, the transmission of which occurs mainly through sexual contact, are combined into one group called sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They often have multiple transmission routes. According to WHO, the list of STIs includes about 30 pathogenic microorganisms that can infect a person during various types of sex (anal, oral, vaginal). Eight viruses are classified by WHO as the most common: gonorrhea, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, hepatitis B, syphilis, herpes, HIV and HPV. The last three STI pathogens are incurable.

Classification

Syphilis

A rapidly developing dangerous disease that affects almost all systems and organs of the human body. The causative agent is treponema pale. The main route of transmission of the disease - sexual, parenteral and contact are much less common. From the moment of infection with treponema pale to the onset of the first symptoms, on average 3-4 weeks pass. At the place where treponema enters the body, the so-called hard chancre develops, which is a round, regular ulcer with a smooth bottom and even hard edges. This is the first clinical symptom of infection.

The localization of the chancre can be different: on the external genitals in men and women, on the fingers, in the mouth (more often on the amygdala). The lymph nodes located near the primary formation increase, become dense, but at the same time painless, mobile and "cold". Chancres disappear literally in a month, regional lymphadenitis disappears. From this period, various skin manifestations begin to appear, in the form of a pale pink rash, small hemorrhages into the skin. There are signs of chronic general intoxication of the body: weakness, low-grade fever, lack of appetite. After 1-2 weeks, these manifestations gradually disappear, and the majority of patients develop the stage of asymptomatic bacterial carriage. However, in the absence of timely treatment, serious complications are possible:

Damage to the aorta and other large arteries (syphilitic aortitis and endarteritis);
lesions of the musculoskeletal system;
lesions of the brain and spinal cord.

Mycoplasmosis

The causative agents of urogenital mycoplasmosis are the intracellular viruses Mycoplasma hominis and Mycoplasma genitalium. These are conditionally pathogenic microorganisms capable of developing the disease only with reduced local immunity. A number of authors do not include mycoplasmosis in the list of STIs, due to its universal prevalence and the possibility of self-healing. Clinical manifestations in mycoplasmosis differ in men and women. Symptoms of STDs in men:
urethritis (inflammation of the urethra);
epididymitis (inflammation of the testes);
orchitis (inflammation of the testicles);
prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate gland).
The participation of mycoplasmas in the development of prostatitis in men has not been proven.

Symptoms of STDs in women:

Urethritis;
cystitis;
colpitis;
cervicitis;
salpingoopharitis;
sluggish pelvioperitonitis.

Chlamydia

Urogenital chlamydia is the most common STI. It surpasses gonorrhea and syphilis in terms of seeking medical care. According to the WHO, about 90 million people fall ill with chlamydia every year. This infection is socially significant, since a high incidence rate, often late diagnosis due to the absence of obvious symptoms leads to the development of infertility in both men and women.

Etiology

Chlamydia is caused by Chlamydia trachomatis. This is a bacterium belonging to gram-negative microorganisms with an intracellular development cycle. The source of infection is infected people who practice promiscuous sex and do not use barrier methods of contraception. There is a sexual and non-sexual, extremely rare route of infection. Chlamydia is also transmitted from a sick mother to a newborn. First of all, the genitourinary system becomes infected. But there is also inflammation of the rectum, posterior pharyngeal wall, eyes, cells of the immune system, joints.

Clinical picture

The manifestations of chlamydia in men differ from those in women. Usually in men, the disease manifests itself as urethritis, which has a subacute course with minor discharge of pus and painful, sometimes difficult urination. Also, urethritis can develop asymptomatically, which leads to a protracted course of the disease with severe complications. Less commonly in men, the prostate and epididymis are affected, which is manifested by prostatitis, as well as epididymitis, respectively. The chronic nature of prostatitis is manifested by discomfort in the perineum, incomplete urinary retention, frequent urination, decreased potency, loss of orgasm. Epididymitis occurs suddenly, from a rise in temperature to 40 ° C and acute pain in the testicular area. There is swelling of the scrotum, also leading to severe pain. After a few days, the manifestations of the disease can completely disappear without therapy. Chlamydia is one of the most common causes of male infertility. It is this STI in women that is characterized by an asymptomatic course of the disease until complications arise, starting with inflammation of organs in the pelvic region. Symptoms of complications are as follows: painful discomfort in the external genital area, discharge of a mucopurulent nature, body temperature up to 39 ° C, a serious failure in the cycle, pulling sensations in the lower abdomen. Female chlamydia manifests itself in the form of bartholinitis, endocervicitis, endometritis, salpingitis, pelvioperitonitis. Not carried out in time for the analysis of STIs in women and treatment started late leads to infertility in most cases.

Gonorrhea

It is of great social importance, since recently the incidence has increased and the age contingent of patients has changed towards rejuvenation. This is due to the prevalence of the infection, which has become resistant to some antibiotics due to their uncontrolled use.

Etiology

The cause of the disease is Neisseria gonorrhoeae, a gram-negative intracellular coccus. The source of infection is infected people. In addition to the traditional route of infection, there is a 1% indirect infection through general personal hygiene equipment. Newborns get the disease at birth from an infected mother.

Clinical picture

Gonorrhea in the strong half is characterized as a form of urethritis. It manifests itself as painful discomfort when urinating with profuse pus. After 10 days, the signs may disappear completely even without medical attention. This is not a complete cure for the disease, as many may think, but the transition of the process to a chronic form, which has a protracted and prolonged course with frequent periods of exacerbation. Gonorrheal urethritis leads to the following complications: morganitis, colliculitis, tizonitis, lymphangitis, lymphadenitis, cooperitis, paraurethritis, epididymitis. These complications have some peculiarities in the form of localization of pain, but they are united by an acute onset, an increase in body temperature up to 40 ° C, severe pain at the site of inflammation. Delaying treatment leads to impotence. Women do not have such a vivid clinical picture when infected. Symptoms appear after complications occur. But for female gonorrhea, the process is multifocal. Allocate gonorrhea of ​​the lower urinary tract, which manifests itself in the form of urethritis, vaginitis, endocervicitis, bartholinitis. These inflammatory diseases manifest themselves with such symptoms as burning pain when urinating, a slight separation of pus from the genital tract, redness of the mucous membranes of the genitals, pain during sexual intercourse. Ascending gonorrhea includes: salpingitis, endometritis, pelvioperitonitis. These diseases are manifested by cramping, pulling pain in the abdomen, painful menstruation, cycle disorders, profuse mucous discharge of pus from the cervix, a rise in temperature several degrees above normal.

Genital herpes

Clinical signs of the disease allow you to immediately identify the infection and correctly begin treatment for STIs. But the infection is very widespread due to the reluctance of patients to see a doctor. This leads to undesirable consequences, including infertility. Etiology The causative agents are 2 types of pathogenic viruses - HSV-1 and HSV-2. The source of infection is a person with clinical manifestations or a virus carrier. Typically, herpes simplex virus type 1 infects the face, while herpes simplex virus type 2 affects the genitourinary organs. Infection of the genitals with HSV-1 and vice versa occurs during orogenital intercourse. Ways of infection - sexual and indirect, through personal hygiene items. The fetus becomes infected from an infected mother in one in three cases. Herpes during pregnancy is a common cause of miscarriage.

Clinical picture

Genital herpes is specific. Men and women have the same clinical signs. In the genital area, small bubbles with a transparent liquid appear. They burst, leaving ulceration in place. This occurs with severe pain, itching, and fever. Further, herpetic urethritis develops, then - lymphadenitis with burning sensation during urination and viscous discharge from the urethra.

HPV

Warts and genital warts are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). The disease plays the role of a trigger factor for oncological processes in the outer membranes of the body. According to many experts who have studied this disease, more than 90% of people are carriers.

Etiology

Human papillomavirus is a DNA virus. There are many ways of transmission of infection. And they determine the clinical manifestations and localization of warts. With genital warts, the sexual transmission of the virus is noted. The source is a virus carrier without clinical manifestations or a person with papillomatosis.

Clinical manifestations

This disease manifests itself latent, painless. May not give any symptoms for a long time. In case of violations in the immune system or infection with any STI, the human papillomavirus is activated and warty formations appear on the patient's body. These outgrowths have a pointed shape. If they are improperly removed or inadvertently torn off, this area is ulcerated. In the future, deep erosion or ulcers appear at this place, followed by suppuration. Genital warts are singly located where the mucous membrane borders the skin. With a protracted course of the disease, a lot of them grow in one place, which resembles a cauliflower. Human papillomavirus is the cause of the cervix in 30% of infected women.

HIV infection

A slowly developing disease caused by the human immunodeficiency virus. A feature of the virus is its tropism for CD4 receptors. This type of receptor is found in the cells of the immune system (T-helpers, monocytes, macrophages) and the nervous system (microglia, dendritic cells). By damaging these cells, the human immunodeficiency virus leads to suppression of the immune system and the development of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). The AIDS stage in HIV infection is characterized by the development of opportunistic diseases, such as: tuberculosis, candidiasis, cryptococcosis, pneumocystis pneumonia, herpes, histaplasmosis, Kaposi's sarcoma. At the moment, no effective antiretroviral treatment has been invented. The drugs used to treat HIV infection only slow down the progression of the disease and serve to prevent concomitant complications.

STI Prevention


Prevention of sexually transmitted infections is divided into two main types:
1. Primary - aimed at preventing infection.
barrier methods of contraception (condoms);
avoidance of promiscuous sexual intercourse, limiting the number of intimate partners to a minimum;
compliance with the rules of intimate hygiene;
avoiding sexual contact with an infected partner.
2. Secondary - aimed at preventing the development of the disease, with suspected infection. In case of "unreliable" contact or in the case when you were informed about the presence of an STD only later by an accomplished, unprotected intimate relationship, you should contact a medical facility. Where appropriate prophylactic STI treatment will be prescribed.

STI diagnostics

An experienced dermatovenerologist, knowing the features of the incubation period of STIs, will set a date for the diagnosis. It is important to understand that most sexually transmitted infections begin to be serologically diagnosed only after a certain period of time. And some can be determined only after the onset of clinical symptoms. For example, in syphilis, the titer of the pathogen increases after a few days, and sometimes even weeks, after the appearance of a specific ulcer. Therefore, only a doctor can determine exactly when it is best to get tested for STIs.

Sexually transmitted diseases are sexually transmitted diseases.

Some of them have been known to mankind for hundreds of years, others have appeared relatively recently. In addition to "age", they also differ in their danger and prevalence.

Below is a list of the 10 most common sexually transmitted diseases, which will start with the most common and end with fairly rare diseases, but no less dangerous from this.

Directory of the best venereologists

Asymptomatic carriers of this sexually transmitted disease are about 70% of sexually active men and women. Infection mainly occurs through sexual intercourse, but it is also possible in a domestic environment.

Asymptomatic carriage turns into a disease when the maximum safe content of the pathogen in the human body is exceeded. Symptoms in men are clear discharge, slight burning sensation when urinating, symptoms of prostatitis.

In women, ureaplasmosis causes pain in the lower abdomen (with an inflammatory process of the internal genital organs), vaginal discharge and burning sensation during urination. In men, prostatitis can become a complication of ureaplasmosis, in women - infertility and ectopic pregnancy.

2.

According to some reports, about 40% of women suffer from this sexually transmitted disease. Outwardly, it manifests itself in the formation of genital warts, which were first described in ancient Greece. Not so long ago it became known that human papillomavirus infection is a viral disease that can be a harbinger of cervical cancer.

3. .

This sexually transmitted disease occurs with a frequency of 7 to 30%. It manifests itself in the formation of bubbles on the skin and mucous membrane. At the moment, there is no cure for herpes, there are only drugs that can suppress its reproduction. In some cases, herpes can affect the nervous system.

4. .

The incidence of gonorrhea among women under 30 is about 15%. The pathogenic effect of gonococci (causative agents of this disease) is mainly exerted on the mucous membrane of the genital organs. The disease can occur in both acute and chronic forms. In men in an acute form, it is possible to discharge pus, mucus, a feeling of "tickling", "broken glass" when urinating. Possible inflammation of the urethra and epididymis, damage to the bladder and kidneys. The external genitals become swollen and inflamed. In women, all symptoms are similar.

5. .

Chlamydia, according to various sources, affects from 5 to 15% of the sexually mature and sexually active population. Symptoms in women are burning and itching in the external genital area, discharge with an unpleasant odor and a yellowish tinge. A slight rise in temperature is possible. Women are more susceptible to this disease. Symptoms in men are pain in the lower back, scrotum, testicles and urethra. Itching and clouding of urine are possible.

6. .

The total number of sexually transmitted infections is about 10%. This disease is dangerous because the affected area is not only the genitourinary system, but also the tonsils, the conjunctiva of the eyes and even the lungs. In women with this disease, pain during intercourse, vaginal discharge and itching is noted. In men, symptoms of prostatitis and discharge from the urethra.

7. Cytomegalovirus infection.

The frequency of occurrence is 0.2 - 2.5%. Full recovery from this infection does not occur, the virus can only go into a latent form and expect a decrease in immunity, during which it will again manifest itself. Contained in all body fluids. May cause retinitis leading to blindness. Especially dangerous for children. The main carriers of this disease are homosexuals and prostitutes.

8. .

This disease affects less than 1% of the world's population. It is associated with lesions of the skin, mucous membranes, nervous system and bones. This disease is caused by pale treponema. Syphilis has several stages. At the site of entry of infection into the body, a so-called hard chancre is formed. If untreated, this disease leads to a significant change in the person's appearance and ultimately to death. ...

9.

According to official data, it hit 0.2% of the world's population. HIV infection affects the body's immune system and prevents it from effectively fighting off infections. An HIV-infected person may not know about their disease for several years, since it is asymptomatic at the beginning, but it can already infect healthy people with it. In advanced stages, many comorbidities are added to HIV, such as Kaposi's sarcoma. HIV drugs and prevention have not yet been developed, but research is being actively pursued in this direction.

Moreover, 30% of stable married couples are infected with sexually transmitted infections. Diseases were detected during diagnostic studies on the subject. It should be emphasized that common genital infections can be contracted even without having sexual contact. For this, close tactile contacts of the skin, the use of common household utensils and ordinary kisses are enough. Such infections include herpes, papillomavirus and cytomegalovirus, as well as syphilis.

Our doctors recommend that you adhere to strict sexual hygiene and exclude unprotected contact with casual partners. Sexual infections in men lead to terrible and sometimes irreversible consequences, up to and including death. In addition, they have a detrimental effect on fertility and potency.

If you find yourself with at least one strange symptom, we advise you to immediately contact a specialist for adequate differential diagnosis and early effective therapy. Our doctors have extensive experience in the treatment of chronic venereal and acute sexually transmitted infections. Modern medicine has stepped forward sharply, and we are ready to assure you: any disease is not a sentence at all!

Common genital infections in men

Today, doctors distinguish the following diseases, "popular" among men who have promiscuous sex:

You need to contact a narrowly focused specialist if you notice the following symptoms in yourself:

  • Any neoplasms on the penis (wounds, cracks, vesicular plaques, papillomas);
  • Itching and burning of the external genital organs;
  • Cramps when urinating;
  • Separation of mucus from the urethra;
  • Hyperemia and swelling in the genital area;
  • Pain syndrome localized in the groin and anus;
  • Inflammation of the testicles.

The main prerequisite for the development of STIs can be any variant of unprotected sexual intercourse (vaginal, oral, anal). If you live a promiscuous sex life, know that illness is your neglect of your own health.

Diagnostics in our clinic

If you find that you have characteristic signs of an STI, we recommend that you see your doctor as soon as possible. Our qualified specialists will conduct a series of diagnostic tests to identify the presence of the disease and conduct effective therapy:

  • Scraping of the mucous tissue of the urethra with further movement into a test tube with a reagent;
  • Research PCR (polymerase chain reaction).
  • RPR Antibodies to cardiolipin antigen;
  • Blood test for hepatitis;
  • General urine analysis;
  • Clinical blood test;
  • Taking a smear for further microscopic examination (Gram stain);
  • Blood test for HIV;
  • Brief conversation with the doctor.

Treatment in our clinic

Our competent specialists will select the optimal treatment regimen for you, depending on your problem and the course of the disease:

1. Antibacterial therapy;
2. Selection of immunomodulatory drugs;
3. Selection of delicate hygiene products for subsequent use.

As a rule, this therapy is sufficient. If necessary, it can be repeated as prescribed by the doctor. Our specialists will also give you all the important recommendations for the intensive treatment period.

Sexual infections in men are not only uncomfortable sensations, but also a direct path to serious complications from the health and reproductive system. Timely contact a specialist for help if you find yourself with an alarming symptom. Our clinic will always help you to regain health and protect yourself from relapses.

Our specialists

Female genital infections belong to a group of diseases, the route of transmission of which is sexual. These are pathologies that can be caused by a bacterial infection, protozoa or viruses. Such pathologies include: papillomavirus, herpetic, mycoplasma, ureaplasma, gonococcal, chlamydial infections, trichomoniasis, etc.

The peculiarity of STIs is that they can be transmitted in other ways (for example, by contact). They are capable of infecting both the reproductive and other organ systems, causing pathological processes in them. Infection of the female genital organs can manifest itself in various clinical manifestations. They depend not only on the type of pathogen, but also on its location.

The causative agents of the inflammatory process of the genitals include not only pathogenic, but also conditionally pathogenic microflora. As a rule, pathogenic flora is always absent in the normal vaginal biocenosis.

In case of penetration into the vaginal microflora, it begins to multiply and causes inflammation inherent in this type of pathogen.

In women, genital tract infections are caused by the following types of pathogenic microorganisms:

  • HPV (papillomavirus, human papillomavirus) causes the appearance of neoplasms on the skin and mucous membranes, provokes the development of the erosive process of the cervix. In the absence of timely therapy, the process can lead to cancer.
  • Herpes virus.
  • The causative agent of chlamydia (chlamydia).
  • Trichomonas leading to trichomoniasis.
  • Gonococci are the causative agents of gonorrhea.
  • The causative agent of syphilis (treponema pale).

Conditionally pathogenic flora, activated, can cause inflammation. But the diseases they cause are not venereal.

Opportunistic microorganisms are natural inhabitants of the vaginal flora.

With a shift in the acid-base balance of the vaginal environment, these microorganisms contribute to the development of the inflammatory process in the genitourinary system.

The group of conditionally pathogenic flora that provokes the development of colpitis, urethritis of a nonspecific nature, bacterial vaginosis include:

  • gardnerella;
  • streptococcal infection;
  • staphylococci;
  • yeast-like fungi, etc.

Causes of infection in women

The occurrence of genital infections in women is associated with the penetration of the causative agent of the disease into the body.

Risk factors for infection include:

  • sexual contact with partners leading an antisocial lifestyle and promiscuous sex;
  • insufficient or lack of personal hygiene;
  • use of substandard contraceptives;
  • blood transfusion during operations;
  • organ transplant;
  • donation.

The provoking factors are the weakening of the immune defense and the abuse of bad habits.

Also, eating disorders (lack of vitamins and minerals), physical fatigue, frequent stress. Infection of the body with STIs contributes to poor health. They can even lead to serious consequences, such as infertility and even death.

How do female genital infections manifest?

In the overwhelming majority of cases, women have the following symptoms of the presence of a genital infection:

  • painful sensations during the act of urination;
  • a fairly frequent trip to the toilet, while the daily urine output does not change;
  • the presence of a foul-smelling leucorrhoea secreted from the genital tract;
  • soreness and discomfort during intercourse.

Symptoms of infection appear characteristic of a certain type of causative agent of genital diseases. For example:

  • for papillomavirus pathology, the formation of warty growths and warts in the anogenital zone is characteristic;
  • for a fungal infection (candidiasis) - the presence of white cheesy discharge with the smell of sour milk and severe itching;
  • for syphilis - the formation of ulcerative lesions (hard chancre) on the genitals and an increase in the inguinal lymph nodes;
  • purulent discharge and hyperemia of the vulvar mucosa are characteristic of gonorrhea;
  • for Trichomonas colpitis - the presence of frothy discharge with the smell of rotten meat;
  • genital herpes is characterized by the presence of vesicles with transparent contents and a strong burning sensation in the affected area. An increase in body temperature is often observed.

In most cases, the symptoms of infection in women depend on where the lesion occurred.

  • If the infection is localized in the urethra, then there will be complaints about frequent visits to the toilet, as well as pain and discomfort when urinating.

  • Symptoms of a labia infection will be mucosal flushing and swelling, and pain when touched.
  • With damage to the cervical canal (cervicitis), a woman will complain of bloody discharge during or after intercourse.
  • inflamed endometrium (endometritis) will make itself felt by the pathological manifestations of menstrual irregularities in the form of painful sensations in the lower abdomen.

The timing of the appearance of the first signs of infectiousness fluctuates depending on the type of pathology.

The incubation period for STIs is individual for different diseases. It can take several days or extend in time up to several months or even years. In some cases, the disease can proceed without any characteristic symptoms. As a rule, in about 20-40% of cases and even more often, signs of infection do not appear.

Diagnosis of female genital infections

On the basis of only the characteristic signs of the disease, treatment will not be prescribed.

Until it becomes clear what type of pathogen provoked the inflammatory process. Therefore, whatever the genital infection, symptoms alone cannot serve as a basis for a diagnosis. Treatment should be prescribed only based on the results of laboratory diagnostics.

To clarify the diagnosis, the following types of tests are performed:

  • Bacterioscopic examination is effective if the infection is localized in the vagina and urethra.
  • Culture of secretions from the vagina and urethra.
  • Carrying out PCR diagnostics in order to detect the genetic material of the pathogen, regardless of where the infection is located.
  • A blood test for the presence of antibodies to the pathogen, which could cause a woman to develop a genital infection.

Where do the tests for female genital infections come from?

A bacterial infection is available for detection in smears taken from the genital tract. It can also be present in the mouth and anus if the woman is having oral or anal sex. In this case, in women, sexually transmitted infections can manifest themselves as signs of inflammation of the oral cavity. For example, in the form of stomatitis, tonsillitis, pharyngitis. As well as the rectum (symptoms of proctitis). Therefore, in the presence of this symptomatology, the doctor should take a smear not only from the mouth, but also from the anus.

Where the doctor will take the biomaterial for research depends on:

  • data collected by the doctor anamnesis, that is, on what type of sexual intercourse the patient could enter with a sexual partner infected with a contagious disease;
  • the data obtained as a result of the examination and the woman's complaints (the presence of rashes, hyperemia, swelling and sore throat, as well as the nature of discharge from the anus).

Which doctor treats female genital infections

Treatment of infectious lesions of the reproductive system in women is carried out not by one specialist, but by different ones. This approach to treatment is explained by the ability of pathogens to infect both the genitals and other organ systems.

Treatment of pathological processes caused by infection of the female reproductive system, as a rule, is carried out by the following specialists:

  • dermatovenerologist;
  • gynecologist;
  • infectious disease specialist;
  • hepatologist;
  • gastroenterologist;
  • rheumatologist.

A dermatovenerologist is a specialist who can conduct an examination and prescribe an appropriate course of treatment.

A woman can contact this specialist in the following cases:

  • if you have had sex with an infectious sexual partner;
  • in the presence of contact without the use of protective equipment with a man about whose health there are doubts;
  • with the appearance of rashes or ulcerative formations on the mucous membrane of the genitals or the skin of various parts of the body;
  • the occurrence of skin neoplasms;
  • if warts appear on the mucous membranes.

In addition to the examination with a dermatovenerologist, you can discuss the best methods of contraception. Also ask for help in choosing preventive treatment (medication) for venous diseases.

But, as a rule, any woman initially tries to visit the gynecological office.

The reasons that contribute to a woman's referral to a doctor are most often:

  • the appearance of pathological leucorrhoea;
  • soreness in the genital area;
  • the presence of an unpleasant odor from the genital tract;
  • discomfort during intercourse;
  • abnormal pregnancy;
  • impossibility of conception (infertility).

A gynecologist also solves issues related to complications of the infectious process and pathology of a woman's reproductive function.

The infectious disease specialist treats HIV-infected people infected with hepatitis B and C, herpes simplex and cytomegalovirus infection.

Gastroenterologist and hepatologist are specialists who treat diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, including the liver.

Their main role is to treat and monitor patients with viral hepatitis B and C.

A rheumatologist is a doctor whose patients are patients with autoimmune pathologies.

Also with diseases that contribute to the destruction of connective tissue. So, for example, chlamydial infection can cause the manifestation of Reiter's syndrome. This is a disease that is manifested by damage to the joints, conjunctiva of the eyes and the mucous membrane of the genitals.

How and what to treat female genital infections

The method of therapy depends on the type of infection that caused the pathological process.

Female genital infections are caused by various groups of microorganisms.

Therefore, depending on the disease, certain drugs are prescribed.

  • Diseases caused by bacteria (chlamydia, syphilis, gonorrhea) are treated with antibacterial drugs. The doctor will tell you what antibiotics you need to drink after a full examination. Due to the fact that every year genital infections develop more and more resistance to antibiotics, the disease becomes more difficult to treat, as pathogens acquire resistance to antibiotics, which previously coped well with them. Thanks to her, it becomes more difficult to cope with the infection each time and there are practically no options for therapeutic effects. They can be used in different forms: in the form of injections or tablets. Monural is used to treat cystitis. For syphilis, penicillin antibiotics are prescribed. They are injected intramuscularly. For the treatment of gonorrhea, Ceftriaxone is used, which is administered intravenously or intramuscularly.
  • For genital herpes and HIV infection, antiretroviral drugs are used. They are able to weaken the effects of the virus, but they cannot completely rid a person of the infection. The virus remains in the body forever.
  • With trichomoniasis, protozoal drugs are prescribed. For example, Tinidazole or Ornidazole.
  • For the treatment of hepatitis, immunomodulators and antiretroviral drugs are prescribed. Immunomodulators help protect the liver from the toxic effects of antiviral drugs.
  • For the treatment of fungal pathologies, drugs with a fungicidal effect are used. Systemic and local drugs are prescribed. The use of agents for topical treatment is the main one for candidiasis. Vaginal suppositories or tablets are prescribed. Drugs for internal use with fluconazole or Clindamycin are prescribed. Their effectiveness is noted in 90% of cases. If there is no effect after treatment, tests are taken for inoculation of biomaterial for sensitivity to antimycotic drugs. Based on the results obtained, further therapy is carried out.
  • Therapy for diseases caused by viruses depends on the type of pathogen. With HPV, neoplasms are removed with the further appointment of immunomodulators.

Instillation of the urethra for female genital infections

For the treatment of some genital infections (for example, with gonorrhea), washing the vagina or bladder with antiseptic solutions is indicated. They are injected into the vagina or urethra. Washing with antiseptic solutions contributes to the rapid destruction of pathogenic flora. Instillation must be carried out within the first two hours after unprotected sexual intercourse, in this way you can prevent infection.

As antiseptics, Miramistin, Chlorhexidine, preparations containing silver have a prophylactic effect.

Solutions are injected into the urethra daily or every other day.

Instillations into the bladder are carried out only in a procedure room, as they require the use of a catheter.

Treatment of genital tract infections during pregnancy

Treatment of infections during pregnancy presents some difficulties for the gynecologist. Since in this state, not all possible means can be applied. Many of the drugs are toxic to the fetus.

During pregnancy, a ban has been introduced on the use of fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines. Antiviral treatment can only be carried out with Acyclovir.

Of the macrolides, Azithromycin has the least danger.

For gonococcal infections, ceftriaxone is preferred.

Fortunately, most penicillin drugs are non-toxic.

Because not even able to penetrate the amniotic fluid.

In this regard, antibiotic therapy for syphilis is indicated at any stage of pregnancy.

Female genital infections and traditional medicine

Medicine has made great strides in recent years. And the methods of treatment with the help of folk remedies do not go into the past and remain relevant.

There are many ways to treat "grandmother's methods". According to folk healers, there are no plants in the world that could not cure a woman's sexually transmitted infection. With the help of medicinal plants, herbalists recommend preparing herbal decoctions. They are used not only for oral administration, but also for douching.

Perhaps herbal decoctions can simply saturate the body with minerals and vitamins. Thus, they will affect the improvement of the immune defense, but will not be able to destroy pathogens in the body. That is, this method is completely untenable.

In addition, self-medication can cause certain complications:

  • spread of infection along the ascending path;
  • lead to infertility;
  • promote the transition of the disease into a chronic state;
  • negatively affect internal organs and organ systems.

As a result of such consequences, the patient will sooner or later have to go to the doctor.

But the neglected condition will be treated much longer and more difficult. In difficult cases, hospitalization may even be required.

Is it possible to have sex while treating infections in a woman

During the treatment process, sexual abstinence is attributed.

This is explained by the following reasons:

  • so that a sick person cannot become a source of infection for other people;
  • in order to prevent the spread of the infection ascending through the body;
  • prevention of further injury to the mucous membranes, which are already damaged.

In addition, during illness for many women, sexual relations are only a burden.

Since they cause a feeling of discomfort:

  • Patients feel pain when touching the mucous membrane of the genitals.
  • Bleeding of the mucous epithelium may occur.
  • The discharge has an unpleasant odor that can repel the sexual partner.

If a woman is ready for such sensations, then she has the right to disobey the doctor and have sex.

But, in any case, you must use a condom.

Prevention of female genital infections

To prevent the possibility of contracting STDs, it is now possible to vaccinate against dangerous diseases such as HPV and hepatitis B.

In addition, you can protect yourself from genital infections if:

  • avoid sexual intercourse with unfamiliar people whose health is in doubt;
  • condom use;
  • minimize non-traditional forms of sex, especially with unverified partners;
  • the use of special protective equipment, especially when having sexual intercourse with a new partner.

Where to go to get treatment for genital infections

If you show signs of infection with any of the genital infections, you should immediately consult a doctor. This can be a local gynecologist, or a venereologist, who leads an appointment at a polyclinic or a dermatovenous dispensary. The specialist will give a referral for tests, the results of which will allow the doctor to prescribe the correct treatment.

Treatment in Moscow can be done not only at the place of residence, but also in one of the private clinics.

Among the advantages of this choice are:

  • availability of the possibility of in-depth diagnostics, which allows detecting hidden infections;
  • high level of qualifications of specialists;
  • polite attitude of the medical staff;
  • maintaining anonymity.

If you suspect a female genital infection, contact the experienced gynecologists and venereologists of our medical center.

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