Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Symptoms: HPV is asymptomatic but there are strains that cause genital warts and vaginal warts. These warts are white or flesh-coloured and may either be flat or raised. They look like cauliflower florets.

Anyone who is sexually active. HPV is transmitted via skin-to-skin contact during sex.

Precautions: Avoid multiple sex partners. Make sure your partner is uninfected. Avoid sexual contact with a new partner who has visible warts near the genital area.

There is no cure yet but the signs and symptoms can be treated.

Chlamydia

Symptoms: Many cases are asymptomatic. However in cases that show symptoms, there is vaginal discharge, anal discharge, pain while urinating, burning sensation while urinating, light vaginal bleeding, vaginal bleeding after intercourse, lower abdominal pains, nausea and fever.

Anyone who is sexually active or has had oral sex with an infected person.

Precautions: Always practice safe sex and try to be monogamous. In case you have more than one partner then get tested regularly.

It is curable.

Herpes

Symptoms: Painful ulcers and blisters.

Anyone who is sexually active and has sex with or even kisses an infected person with mouth sores. Herpes is a skin-to-skin infection and spreads from the point of infection to the point of contact.

Precautions: Always practice safe sex. Try and be monogamous.

There is no permanent cure for herpes, but they can be treated every time there is an outbreak.

Genital Warts

Symptoms: Painless warts near the vaginal opening that may cause itching and a lot of vaginal discharge.

Anyone who is sexually active and has sex with an infected person.

Precautions: Always practice safe sex. Try and be monogamous.

There is no cure for genital warts; but they can be treated.

Trichomoniasis

Symptoms: Heavy vaginal discharge, vaginal odour, vaginal itching, painful intercourse and urination.

Anyone who is sexually active and has sex with an infected person.

Precautions: Always practice safe sex. Try and be monogamous.

It is curable.

Remember, always practice safe sex (with a condom) and protect yourself. As soon as you suspect an infection, get tested. In case of a committed relationship, it is advisable to take all the necessary tests before you get intimate. Here's to a safe and healthy sex life.

(With inputs from Dr. Deshpande, General Practitioner)