What Is Sexually Transmitted Infections?: What You Need to Know
Author: Egbodo Peter
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a growing global health concern, with rates rising in many countries, including Nigeria. From chlamydia and gonorrhea to syphilis and HIV, the increase in STI cases highlights the need for greater awareness, prevention, and early treatment.
In this article, we’ll explore the latest STI statistics, discuss factors contributing to the rise, and provide key prevention strategies to protect your sexual health.
The Alarming Rise of STIs: What the Numbers Say
Recent reports from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate that millions of new STI cases occur annually worldwide.
Read More: 11 Common Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Global STI Statistics:
- More than 1 million STIs are acquired every day worldwide.
- Chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis are the most common curable STIs.
- HPV, herpes, and HIV are viral STIs that are manageable but not curable.
- Untreated syphilis in pregnancy causes over 300,000 fetal deaths and complications yearly.
STI Trends in Nigeria:
- Nigeria has one of the highest rates of sexually transmitted infections in Africa.
- HIV prevalence remains a concern, with young people aged 15-24 being the most affected group.
- Antibiotic-resistant gonorrhea is on the rise, making treatment more difficult.
The numbers tell a concerning story, but understanding the factors driving the increase in STI cases can help reverse the trend.
Why Are STIs on the Rise?
Several factors contribute to the increasing STI rates, including:
1. Low Condom Use
Despite condoms being one of the most effective ways to prevent STIs, many people fail to use them consistently during sex.
2. Lack of Comprehensive Sex Education
Many individuals, especially young people, lack proper sexual health education, leading to risky behaviors and unprotected sex.
3. Multiple Sexual Partners
Having multiple partners increases the risk of STI exposure, especially when partners do not get tested regularly.
4. Untreated and Asymptomatic Cases
Many STIs show no symptoms initially, causing people to unknowingly spread infections to others.
5. Antibiotic Resistance
Certain bacterial STIs, like gonorrhea, are becoming resistant to treatment, making them harder to cure.
6. Stigma & Fear
The stigma surrounding STIs prevents many people from getting tested or seeking treatment, allowing infections to spread further.
Common STIs & Their Symptoms
Here are some of the most common STIs, their symptoms, and potential complications if left untreated:
| STI | Symptoms | Possible Complications |
| Chlamydia | Painful urination, abnormal discharge, pelvic pain | Infertility, ectopic pregnancy |
| Gonorrhea | Green/yellow discharge, painful urination, sore throat | Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility |
| Syphilis | Sores, rashes, fever, organ damage | Blindness, brain damage, stillbirth |
| HIV/AIDS | Flu-like symptoms, weight loss, weakened immune system | AIDS, opportunistic infections |
| Genital Herpes | Painful blisters, itching, flu-like symptoms | Recurring outbreaks, neonatal herpes |
| HPV (Human Papillomavirus) | Warts, abnormal Pap smear | Cervical, anal, and throat cancers |
| Trichomoniasis | Foul-smelling discharge, itching, burning | Pregnancy complications |
Note: Many STIs do not show symptoms, so regular testing is essential.
Read More: Hepatitis B infection: Symptoms, Causes And Prevention
How to Protect Yourself from STIs
The good news? STIs are preventable! Here’s how you can reduce your risk:
1. Use Protection Every Time
✔ Condoms and dental dams help prevent most STIs, including HIV.
✔ Use condoms correctly and consistently to maximize protection.
2. Get Tested Regularly
✔ Many STIs do not cause symptoms, so routine testing is crucial—especially if you have multiple partners.
✔ Get tested at least once a year or more frequently if you’re at higher risk.
3. Limit Your Number of Sexual Partners
✔ Fewer partners = lower STI risk.
✔ If you have multiple partners, ensure everyone gets tested regularly.
4. Get Vaccinated
✔ The HPV vaccine protects against cervical, anal, and throat cancers caused by HPV.
✔ The Hepatitis B vaccine prevents liver disease caused by the virus.
5. Talk Openly About Sexual Health
✔ Discuss STI testing and protection before having sex with a new partner.
✔ Breaking the stigma around STIs encourages more people to get tested and treated.
6. Seek Treatment Immediately
✔ If you test positive for an STI, start treatment right away to prevent complications.
✔ Make sure your partner(s) also get tested and treated to stop reinfection.
When to See a Doctor
If you notice any of the following symptoms, book an STI test immediately:
✔ Unusual discharge (yellow, green, or foul-smelling)
✔ Burning or pain during urination
✔ Genital sores, blisters, or bumps
✔ Unexplained pelvic or lower abdominal pain
✔ Unusual vaginal bleeding
✔ Pain during sex
Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious health complications.
Prioritize Your Sexual Health
STIs are on the rise, but with the right knowledge and precautions, you can protect yourself and your partners.
🔹 Get tested regularly
🔹 Use condoms consistently
🔹 Talk openly about STIs
🔹 Seek treatment if needed
Sexual health is a vital part of overall well-being. By breaking the stigma and encouraging education, testing, and prevention, we can reverse the rising STI trend and create a healthier society.
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