STI – mode of transmission

How does one catch a sexually transmitted infection (STI)?

• Sexual intercourse with an individual having a STI. Transmission of body fluids (sperm, vaginal or cervical secretions):

1. Gonorrhoea (Gonorrhea)
2. Hepatitis B
3. HIV (Virus of AIDS)
4. Non Specific (Non Gonoccocal) Urethritis

• Close contact with an individual having a STI:

1. Condyloma Accuminata (Genital warts)
2. Genital Herpes
3. Pediculosis Pubis (Crabs)
4. Scabies
5. Syphilis

• Some STIs can be transmitted to the Newborn during pregnancy and delivery (and also by the sharing of contaminated needles between intravenous drug abusers):

1. Hepatitis B
2. HIV
3. Syphilis

Can STDs be transmitted when taking meals (sharing ustensils such as knives, forks and glasses…) with infected persons ? Can STDs be caught when sitting on toilet seats, shaking hands or in swimming pools ?

• No. The organisms cannot survive outside the human body.

Can I catch an STD when kissing ?

• If the kiss is “dry”, there is no risk
• If the kiss is “deep/humid” (“French kiss”, organisms living in infected individuals (Chlamydia, Herpes, Gonorrhoea, Syphilis) can be transmitted.

However, it is not a frequent mode of transmission.

Can I catch/have more than one STD at a time ?

• Yes

Can STDs be inherited ?

• Yes (non genetic), during pregnancy, delivery and breastfeeding.
• By trating the mother and taking preventive measuEn traitant la mère et en prenant des précautions, ce risque peut être diminué.