Sexually Transmitted Infections: An Overview

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections that are spread primarily through person-to-person sexual contact. During the past two decades, STDs have undergone a dramatic transformation. First, the change in name from venereal diseases (V.D.) to sexually transmitted diseases (STD) indicates this transformation. The term “venereal” as it relates to disease dates back to 15th century. Its root comes from the Latin venereus or venus, meaning “from sexual love or desire.” Secondly, attention is now given not only to specific sexually transmitted microbial agents, but also to clinical syndromes associated with STDs as follows:  urethral discharge  genital ulcers  inguinal swellings (bubo, which is a swelling in the groin)  scrotal swelling  vaginal discharge  lower abdominal pain  neonatal eye infections (conjunctivitis of the newborn).