What Are the Different Types of STDs?

Sexually transmitted diseases, also known as STDs, are a group of diseases or infections that are spread through sexual contact with an infected person. There are three basic categories of STDs, bacterial, viral, and parasitic, and Several different STDs are grouped into these three categories. Some of the more common types include chlamydia, syphilis, and herpes. Any questions or concerns about the different types of STDs should be discussed with a doctor or other medical professional.

Chlamydia and syphilis are types of STDs that are caused by bacterial infections. Chlamydia is perhaps the most common sexually transmitted disease in the Western part of the world and may or may not cause symptoms. If symptoms are present, they often include painful urination and an abnormal discharge from the vagina or penis. Syphilis usually presents as a sore on the genitals, although this symptom may not develop until several years after the person has been infected. If left untreated, syphilis may eventually lead to paralysis, blindness, or even death.

Genital herpes is one of the types of STDs that is caused by a viral infection. This disease typically causes the development of one or more sores on the genital region of the body. These sores may come and go, but the infected person can still infect someone else when the sores are not present. Other possible symptoms of genital herpes include fever, swollen glands, and flu-like symptoms.

Another of the more common types of STDs caused by a virus includes genital warts. This disease often causes one or more small, painless bumps on the genitals. These bumps may sometimes cause itching or the development of an abnormal discharge. Occasionally, genital warts may cause bleeding or a urinary blockage and have to be surgically removed. In many cases, the person infected with genital warts also has one or more additional sexually transmitted diseases.

Trichomonas is also among the possible types of STDs, but this type of disease is caused by a fungal infection. This is a curable type of sexually transmitted disease that can affect men and women, although the presence of symptoms is more common among women than men. Some of these symptoms may include a strong-smelling vaginal odor accompanied by a discharge that is a yellow or green color. Vaginal itching and painful intercourse may occur with this condition as well. Men who do experience symptoms may notice a small amount of discharge from the penis or experience a minor amount of discomfort when urinating.