STIs

Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It can affect both men and women and may lead to serious, lasting damage to a woman’s reproductive system, increasing the risk of infertility. In some cases, it can also result in a potentially fatal ectopic pregnancy, where the pregnancy develops outside the womb.

Gardnerella, specifically Gardnerella vaginalis, is a type of bacteria that is commonly found in the vaginal microbiome. While it is a normal part of vaginal flora, an imbalance can lead to overgrowth, resulting in bacterial vaginosis (BV), a common vaginal infection. It is not classified as a traditional sexually transmitted infection (STI), but its presence and growth can be influenced by sexual activity.

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It can affect the urethra, rectum, and throat, and in women, may also infect the cervix. Most common among people aged 15–24, gonorrhea can lead to serious health complications if left untreated.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus): HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system, weakening the body’s ability to fight infections. It is transmitted through bodily fluids, most commonly during unprotected sex or needle sharing. Early stages of HIV may show no symptoms, making regular testing important. Although there is no cure, antiretroviral therapy can effectively manage the virus. Prevention strategies include testing, as well as the use of prophylactic medications like PrEP and PEP. Public health efforts focus on education and reducing stigma.

The HSV-1 IgG antibody test measures the presence of antibodies against Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1) in the body. HSV-1 is commonly linked to oral herpes but can also cause genital infections. IgG antibodies usually develop a few weeks after initial infection and persist for life, indicating past or ongoing exposure. While this test does not show whether the infection is currently active, it helps confirm prior contact with the virus and may be clinically relevant when evaluating symptoms or before certain medical procedures.

HSV-2 IgG antibodies are a measure that reflects the immune system’s response to Herpes Simplex Virus type 2 (HSV-2), the virus most commonly associated with genital herpes. These antibodies indicate prior exposure to HSV-2, even if no symptoms were experienced. They typically develop within several weeks after infection and remain present long-term. The test detects whether an individual has been infected at some point but cannot determine the timing of infection or whether the virus is currently active.

HPV (Human Papillomavirus): HPV is a group of over 200 viruses, with some types being sexually transmitted and linked to health issues like genital warts and cancers, particularly cervical cancer. The high-risk types, especially HPV-16 and HPV-18, are strongly associated with cancers of the cervix, throat, anus, and penis. While most HPV infections are asymptomatic and resolve on their own, persistent infections can lead to cancer. Vaccination is available to protect against the most dangerous strains, and regular screening is important for early detection and prevention.

Mycoplasma, particularly Mycoplasma hominis (MH), is a type of bacteria that can be transmitted through sexual contact, though it is not strictly classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI). It is one of several Mycoplasma species that affect humans and can inhabit the genital and respiratory tracts. While often asymptomatic, it can cause health issues, particularly in the genitourinary system.

Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) is a sexually transmitted bacterium first identified in the 1980s. It is known for causing urogenital infections and can be transmitted through sexual contact. MG is a common cause of non-gonococcal urethritis in men and has been associated with pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women. Its prolonged and sometimes asymptomatic nature makes it a significant concern for sexual health.

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It progresses through multiple stages — primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary — and can affect different organ systems over time. Syphilis is mainly transmitted through sexual contact, including oral, anal, and vaginal sex, and can also be passed from mother to child during pregnancy, resulting in congenital syphilis.

Trichomonas vaginalis infection (Trichomoniasis) is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. It affects both men and women, though symptoms are more frequently seen in women. This infection can lead to irritation and increase the risk of contracting other STIs, including HIV.

Ureaplasma is a group of tiny bacteria commonly found in the urogenital tracts of both men and women. They are part of the normal genital flora but can cause infection under certain conditions. Ureaplasma species, particularly Ureaplasma urealyticum and Ureaplasma parvum, are associated with conditions such as urethritis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and infertility. While they can be sexually transmitted, they are not always classified strictly as STIs.

Vaginal pH refers to the acidity level of the vaginal environment, which normally ranges from 3.8 to 4.5. This slightly acidic balance, maintained largely by lactic acid–producing Lactobacilli, helps support healthy bacterial populations and protect against harmful microbes. Shifts in vaginal pH can increase the risk of infections and other gynecological conditions.