Sexually Transmitted Infections

What every woman should know about sexually transmitted infections

Women of all ages need to understand how sexually transmitted infections spread, and how to practicing safer sex can reduce the risk of contracting them. STIs spread during sexual contact. This includes vaginal, oral and anal sex that involves touching a partner’s genitals or intercourse. The most common types of infection are chlamydia and HPV, or human papillomavirus. Our Austin and Dripping Springs OB/GYNs believe that understanding STIs is vital, so women won’t be afraid to seek treatment and discuss this health issue.

Understanding the risk factors for STIs

Certain behaviors can increase a woman’s risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections.

• Sexual contact with a new partner

• Women or their partners who have more than one relationship at a time

• Sexual relations with a someone who has or has had an STI

• Sharing needles to inject drugs

• Using alcohol or illegal drugs, which can cause people to take risks

• Failure to practice safe sexual behavior

Women can reduce their risk for sexually transmitted infections by practicing safer sex

Abstinence or a monogamous relationship where neither partner has an infection are the only ways to prevent STIs 100%. Women who are sexually active can help reduce their risk by practicing safer sex.

• Use condoms or dental dams every time there is sexual contact.

• Get regular STI testing and get treatment for infections.

• Consider having fewer sexual partners.

• Discuss sexual history and STI status with partners.

Women between the ages of 11 and 26, and sometimes up to age 45, should get the HPV vaccine. Our Austin and Dripping Springs OB/GYNs also recommend the vaccine for hepatitis B.

Annual wellness appointments are vital for early detection and treatment

Often, especially in the early stages, sexually transmitted infections don’t cause symptoms. However, STIs can cause symptoms, such as sores or rashes in the genitals or mouth, itching, pain during urination, and abdominal or pelvic pain. Untreated STIs can cause fertility problems, result in infections that can spread to other parts of the body, or lead to cervical cancer.

When women come in for their annual wellness visits, our OB/GYNs provide testing and physical examinations that help detect problems in the early, most treatable stages. If bacteria cause the infection, treatment involves antibiotics. If the infection is viral, our physicians monitor and manage it.

Our Austin and Dripping Springs OB/GYNs provide compassionate treatment

Women should not let fear or embarrassment keep them from coming to see our OB/GYNs about possible STIs. Our physicians are compassionate and experienced, and they are happy to talk about sexually transmitted infections, prevention and testing. Knowing more about STIs keeps women safer and healthier. Contact us for an appointment.