Infectious and Rare Diseases

Sexually transmitted Diseases and infection

Sexually transmitted infections (STI), also known as sexually transmitted diseases (STD) and venereal diseases (VD), are infections that are commonly spread by sex, especially vaginal intercourse, anal sex and oral sex. Most STIs initially do not show any symptoms. This results in a greater risk of passing the disease on to others. Symptoms of disease may include vaginal discharge, penile discharge, ulcers around the genitals, and pelvic pain. STIs acquired before or during birth may result in poor outcomes for the baby. Some STIs may cause problems with the ability to get pregnant.