The Top 10 STDs You Need to Know About In 2022

The world of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) has changed a lot in the last several years, and this is the part you need to know about these diseases so that you can keep yourself and your partner(s) safe and healthy no matter what year you’re reading this in! Chances are, these diseases will all look very different 10 years from now, but it never hurts to be ready! Here are the top 10 STDs in 2022 as we see them today...

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1) CHLAMYDIA

Chlamydia is a type of sexually transmitted disease that affects both men and women. It's caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, and it can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Most people don't experience any symptoms when they have chlamydia, but if left untreated it can develop into complications such as infertility and ectopic pregnancy.

2) GONORRHEA

Gonorrhea is a type of sexually transmitted disease caused by the gonococcus bacteria. Gonorrhea can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Symptoms of gonorrhea include vaginal discharge, a burning sensation when urinating, and lower abdominal pain. If left untreated, gonorrhea develops into serious health consequences including infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and even death.

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3) HIV/AIDS

HIV, the virus that can lead to autoimmune disease also known as AIDS, is a sexually transmitted disease that has been around since the 1980s. It's most common among gay and bisexual men who have sex without using protection or who share needles for drug use. The US Department of Health and Human Services estimates that one in seven people with HIV don't know they're infected. 

If you are living with HIV, your treatment plan should be carefully monitored by your healthcare team.

4) HPV

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted disease that is very common in the United States. It causes a variety of health problems, including genital warts and cancer. There are more than 100 forms of HPV, and only about 40 types can infect the genital area. The virus often has no symptoms, so it's important to get screened for it every three years if you're sexually active or have multiple partners.

5) PELVIC INFLAMMATORY DISEASE

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, or PID for short, is an infection of the upper reproductive system that affects both women and men. An overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina or cervix often results from untreated chlamydia, gonorrhea, or PID itself. 

You can get Pelvic Inflammatory Disease through vaginal intercourse without a condom with someone who has a sexually transmitted disease (STD) or if cancer treatment has weakened your immune system. 

6) PUBIC LICE

Pubic lice are among the most common sexually transmitted diseases and are often spread through close contact with someone who has an infestation. The louse attaches itself to the pubic hair, feeds on blood, and lays eggs which can produce more lice. The most common symptom of public lice is itching or a rash at the site of attachment.

7) SCABIES

The mite Sarcoptes scabiei is a skin infestation. The most common symptom of scabies is intense itching, which often leads to severe scratching and raw, red skin. Scabies may also cause rashes or pimples on the skin, and the area around your genitals may become swollen or tender.

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8) SYPHILIS

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease on the rise in the last few years. It's caused by bacteria and is most commonly spread through unprotected vaginal, oral, or anal sex. Symptoms of syphilis are skin sores, rashes, red spots on the palms of hands or feet, sore throat, fever, headache, nausea, and swollen glands. It can cause blindness or dementia if left untreated. 

9) TRICHOMONIASIS

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted disease that can cause itching and vaginal discharge. Untreated it can lead to more serious health problems, including infertility. It's one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases, with 6 million new cases every year. It is caused by a parasite that infects the vagina and urethra of women. The infection passes through sexual contact, including oral sex and anal sex.

10) YEAST INFECTIONS

A yeast infection is a common, yet uncomfortable and inconvenient, condition caused by a fungus called Candida Albicans. There are two different types of yeast infections: oral and genital. The most common symptom of an oral yeast infection is a thick, white coating on the tongue or mouth. Women who have vaginal yeast infections often experience itching, burning, and swelling of the vagina with discharge that has a cottage cheese-like appearance.