STIs

Senga

"Can a person with syphilis spread the disease?"

"Yes. Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease. A person with syphilis can spread the infection during the first two stages of the disease. If you come in contact with an open sore (first stage) or skin rash (second stage), you can pick up the bacteria that cause the infection. If the bacteria enter your body through an opening such as the penis, anus, vagina, mouth, or broken skin, you can get syphilis. If a person has had syphilis for more than two years, it's unlikely that he or she can spread the disease. Don't take a chance. Use a lubricated…"

"Is vaginal discharge normal?"

"A woman normally produces a vaginal discharge that usually is described as clear or slightly cloudy, non-irritating, and odor-free. During the normal menstrual cycle, the amount and consistency of discharge can vary. At one time of the month, there may be a small amount of a very thin or watery discharge; and at another time, a more extensive thicker discharge may appear. All of these excretions could be considered normal. A vaginal discharge that has an odor or that is irritating usually is considered an abnormal discharge. The irritation might be itching or burning, or both. The itching may be…"

"How do people get HIV?"

"A person gets HIV when an infected person's body fluids (blood, semen, fluids from the vagina, or breast milk) enter his or her bloodstream. The virus can enter the blood through linings in the mouth, anus, or sex organs (the penis and vagina), or through broken skin. Both men and women can spread HIV. A person with HIV can feel okay and still transmit the virus to others. Pregnant women with HIV also can pass the virus to their babies. Common ways people get HIV include; sharing a needle to take drugs, having unprotected sex with an infected person You…"

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