A sexually transmitted disease is one that is transmitted specifically through sexual contact – in addition to what is normally known as vaginal intercourse, this includes oral sex and anal sex. The infection in such cases is essentially transmitted through bodily fluids such as semen, saliva, blood, vaginal fluids, and so on. In some cases, sexual contact is not the primary manner in which a disease is transmitted. Such diseases may be transmitted sexually, but this is not the typical route of infection. These are known as sexually transmissible diseases – the possibility of sexual transmission exists, but is not the rule.
Syphilis is one sexually transmitted disease that is caused by bacteria. This infection is almost always transmitted through sexual contact, and causes lesions to develop, typically on the genitals and the surrounding area. The lesions are usually not painful, and heal on their own. However, there may also be swelling of the lymph nodes, and this can be slightly painful. What is known as secondary syphilis is the more traumatic and damaging part of the disease, and occurs at least a month after the initial infection. Sometimes, the symptoms can take several months to appear. These include a rash on the palms and feet, new lesions with a whitish color, fever, headaches, sore throat, and weight loss, along with swollen lymph nodes once again. The patient may also suffer from meningitis, and there may be more severe damage, such as deterioration of the heart, the joints, and the brain.
Gonorrhea is another sexually transmitted bacterial infection, and this infection too has rather mild or non existent symptoms in the initial stages. However, if untreated, it can lead to sterility and damage to the joints and heart. As you can see, these infections are very serious – however, they can quite easily be treated with antibiotics, and therefore if you suspect you have a sexually transmitted bacterial infection, you should consult a doctor immediately.
answered by G M