Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a serious health concern, and if left untreated, can have fatal consequences. STDs are caused by an infection, and while some are curable, others are not. Non-viral STDs such as chlamydia and gonorrhea can be cured, but if left untreated, they can cause serious and permanent health problems in both men and women. Syphilis is one of the STDs that is only dangerous for adults if left untreated for a significant period of time.
It can cause a range of problems from internal organ failure to blindness, paralysis and death. In addition, some curable STDs such as gonorrhea and chlamydia can cause infertility if left untreated. It can also cause diseases such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women. The surest way to avoid the transmission of gonorrhea or other STDs is to abstain from vaginal, anal and oral sex, or to maintain a long-term mutual monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and is known to be uninfected.
Anyone who is sexually active should discuss their risk factors with a healthcare provider and ask if they should be tested for gonorrhea or other STDs. The active immune response caused by an untreated and uncontrolled STD increases the risk of contracting another STI during sexual contact. It's important for all sexually active people to understand the dangers associated with untreated STDs. Without treatment, STDs can cause serious complications for you and any current or future sexual partner.
In addition, anyone with an oral, anal, or vaginal sexual partner who has recently been diagnosed with an STD should see a healthcare provider for evaluation. Because some STDs are asymptomatic at first, the only way to know for sure if you have an STI is to get tested if you're sexually active. Healthcare providers who request inquiries about sexually transmitted diseases can contact the STD Clinical Consultation Network (STDCCN), external icon. The good news is that most STDs are curable, and even those that have no cure can be effectively controlled or minimized with treatment.
