Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

What it is

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are caused by bacteria, viruses or protozoa, transmitted mainly through sexual intercourse without a condom. The most common are chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, trichomoniasis, HPV, herpes and HIV. Many of them cause no symptoms in women, which delays diagnosis and increases the risk of complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility and transmission during pregnancy. When present, signs include discharge with an altered odor or color, burning during urination, sores, warts, pelvic pain and bleeding outside the menstrual period. Diagnosis is made with blood, urine and vaginal secretion tests, and treatment depends on the causative agent — usually with antibiotics or antivirals — and should include the sexual partner to prevent reinfection. Care is confidential and non-judgmental, with guidance on prevention and periodic screening.

Most common symptoms

• No symptoms in a large share of women
• Discharge with altered odor, color or amount
• Burning when urinating
• Sores, blisters or warts in the genital area
• Pain in the lower abdomen or during intercourse
• Bleeding outside your period or after intercourse
• Swollen lymph nodes in the groin

Causes and risk factors

• Vaginal, anal or oral intercourse without a condom
• A new partner or multiple sexual partners
• A partner with an untreated STI, risking reinfection
• Sharing intimate accessories without protection
• Transmission from mother to baby during pregnancy or birth

How it is diagnosed

Because many STIs cause no symptoms, periodic screening is recommended even for those who feel well. At the consultation, in a confidential, non-judgmental setting, your gynecologist discusses your sexual history, symptoms and health history, and performs a gynecological exam. Depending on the case, blood tests (syphilis, HIV, hepatitis), urine tests and vaginal or cervical secretion tests are ordered, including molecular tests for chlamydia, gonorrhea and trichomoniasis, as well as a Pap smear and HPV testing when indicated.

How we treat it at Femi Saúde

Treatment is directed at the identified agent: antibiotics for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis and trichomoniasis, antivirals for herpes, and specific follow-up for HPV and HIV. Femi Saúde's gynecology team provides guidance on treating the sexual partner, essential to prevent reinfection, and on the period of abstinence until treatment is complete. In some cases, follow-up tests are repeated to confirm the cure. The consultation includes guidance on condom use, available vaccines and periodic screening, and care is confidential. When there are complications, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, the plan is expanded. Each approach is individualized.

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