Venereal disease is another name for a sexually transmitted disease. These can be prevented through safe sex, and in some cases through vaccines.
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Venereal disease, also known as VD or a venereal infection, is a type of disease that’s transmitted by sexual activity between two people. VD can be transmitted through any type of sexual activity, not just vaginal intercourse. Anal sex (between two men or between a man and a woman), oral sex, or even sharing of unwashed sex toys can lead to transmission of VD.
The reproductive tract provides a warm, moist environment that’s protected from the outside world. This is an ideal environment for many microorganisms to thrive in. Some of the organisms that cause VD cannot survive outside of the human body; this is why they can only be transmitted by sexual activity. Other organisms can survive on surfaces for a short period of time.
VD that can only be transmitted by sex
Most types of VD fall into this category. Gonorrhea is caused by bacteria that are too fragile to survive outside of the human body. It causes discharge, as well as burning during urination. Chlamydia is caused by bacteria so small that they can only live inside of human cells. The symptoms are very similar to gonorrhea; these two diseases are similar to each other, and are often transmitted together. They’re among the most common types of VD in Singapore.
Syphilis is transmitted almost exclusively by sexual activity. Transmission of syphilis occurs when a mucous membrane (a moist lining, such as that of the mouth or genital tract) or broken skin comes into contact with a syphilis sore. The sore appears on the genitals during the initial infection with syphilis. Later, the sore heals, but then a rash appears over the whole body; this rash can also transmit syphilis if contacted by a mucous membrane or broken skin. In a healthcare setting, workers should never touch a rash with their bare skin; during sexual activity, a condom will usually prevent syphilis by preventing contact of the uninfected person with the sore.
VD that can be transmitted by sex or in blood
HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, is a major public health problem worldwide. This virus causes the disease known as AIDS, or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Although it’s not the most common type of VD, it’s the most serious type, and the numbers of people infected with HIV are increasing. HIV can be transmitted through any type of sex, or through mixing of blood on contaminated needles (such as during drug use or in a healthcare setting).
VD that can be transmitted on surfaces
There are a few types of VD that can be transmitted on surfaces. Hepatitis B is a serious illness caused by a virus. This infection attacks the liver, causing serious health problems, including liver cancer. While it can be transmitted through sex, it can also be transmitted by sharing of needles (such as during drug use), from mother to child, or through sharing of bodily fluids on items like toothbrushes or eating utensils. If you have a family member infected with the hepatitis B virus, it’s important to be cautious and avoid mixing bodily fluids in any way.
Molluscum contagiosum is an infection with a virus called MCV. This virus can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact (such as occurs between the genital areas during sex), and can also be transmitted on objects like toilet seats and towels. It can occur on any area of the body, not just on the genitals.
References
Venereal at Shim Clinic, Singapore