Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are diseases that are transmitted through sexual relations, including vaginal, anal and oral. They are caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites. The origin of STIs is found in human evolution and the presence of strains resistant to medical treatments. It is important to highlight the difference between STIs and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), since the latter are only transmitted through sexual contact.

Between the most frequent STIs We find chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes, syphilis, and human papillomavirus (HPV). Prevention and early treatment are key to avoiding complications and transmission to other people.

The symptoms of sexually transmitted infections They can range from mild to severe, and in some cases they may have no visible symptoms. However, some of the most common symptoms include pain or burning when urinating, abnormal genital discharge, itching or irritation in the genital area, pain during sexual intercourse, and flu-like symptoms.

If you suspect these symptoms, you should be concerned and seek medical attention if you experience them, as some STIs can cause serious long-term complications if not treated in time.. In addition, it is worth clarifying that many STIs can be prevented with measures such as the use of condoms and regular screening tests.

Some of the STIs caused by bacteria are chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis. These infections can be treated with antibiotics and usually present with symptoms such as abnormal genital discharge, pain or burning when urinating, and pain during sexual intercourse.

However, it is important to note that some strains of bacteria that cause STIs may be resistant to antibiotics, which can complicate treatment and increase the risk of complications. For this reason, it is essential to seek medical attention if you experience STI symptoms and follow prevention and treatment recommendations.

Regarding STIs caused by viruses, some examples include human papillomavirus (HPV), genital herpes, and HIV/AIDS. Unlike STIs caused by bacteria, STIs caused by viruses cannot be completely cured and can cause serious long-term complications. However, some of these infections, such as HIV/AIDS, can be treated with medications to prevent complications and improve the quality of life of those affected.

Symptoms of these infections may include genital blisters or sores, fever, malaise, and pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse. It is important to seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of STIs caused by viruses and follow prevention measures, such as using condoms and getting regular screening tests.

A common example of fungal STIs is genital candidiasis, also known as fungal infection. This infection can cause itching, irritation, and whitish discharge in the genital area. Genital candidiasis is more common in women, but it can also affect men. In most cases, you can treat with antifungal medications.

It is essential to seek medical attention if you experience fungal STI symptoms and follow prevention measures, such as maintaining intimate hygiene and avoiding sharing personal items with others.

Finally, parasite-generated STIs are those caused by specific strains of parasites. An example is the trichomoniasis, an infection caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. Symptoms include vaginal discharge with a strong odor and yellowish color, genital irritation and itching, and pain during sexual intercourse. Trichomoniasis can be treated with medications available by prescription.

STIs caused by parasites can be easily transmitted through sexual contact, so it is essential to take measures to prevent their spread. It is important to seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of STIs caused by parasites and follow prevention measures.

It is important to be aware of the risky sexual behaviors that may increase the risk of contracting an STI. Some high-risk sexual behaviors include having unprotected sex, having multiple sexual partners, having sex with someone who has an active STI, and sharing sex toys without proper cleaning.

It is also important to note that some STIs, such as HIV/AIDS, can be transmitted through contact with infected blood, so it is important to take additional safety measures during sexual behaviors. Prevention and early treatment are essential to control the spread of STIs and protect people's sexual and reproductive health.

STIs are transmitted through sexual contact with an infected person, whether vaginal, anal or oral. The time it takes to transmit can vary depending on the type of infection, but in general, they can take from a few days to several weeks to manifest.

It is considered that a STI is serious if it causes long-term complications, such as infertility or HIV transmission. It is important to seek medical attention if an STI is suspected and follow your healthcare provider's recommendations to prevent transmission to others.

The more effective measures to prevent STIs These include sexual abstinence, fidelity to one partner, correct and consistent use of condoms, and vaccination against diseases such as HPV and hepatitis B. 

The prevention and early treatment of STIs are key to maintaining sexual and reproductive health. In addition, it is important to do regular testing for STIs and seek treatment immediately if an infection is suspected.