BEING in a relationship where one partner is promiscuous can be very distressing for the other person. And while there is the emotional conflict to deal with, there is also the health problems that can arise from the infidelity.
While sexual promiscuity is seen as a gateway to HIV/AIDS, it should never be forgotten that having numerous sex partners can lead to the transmission of a number of other Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs). In fact, it has been reported that there are over 50 separate strains of STDs or VDs (Venereal Diseases), some of which, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications such as infertility.
Using a condom every time may decrease the chances of acquiring or transmitting diseases. One should never forget, though, that condoms are not foolproof as they can break at any time thus maximising the chances of a transfer.
While the more popular method of STD transfer is through the exchange of body fluids such as semen and vaginal secretions, other methods are through the blood and saliva as with Herpes, which can be transferred by kissing.
Here is a list of the more popular STDs (with symptoms) that persons can get as a result of promiscuity.
* Genital Herpes — Itching, tingling or burning sensation in the genitals, fluid-filled blisters on genitals.
* Chlamydia — Usually has no symptoms, but sometimes causes pain during intercourse (females); clear, watery discharge (males).
* Genital Warts (Human Papillomavirus) — Cauliflower-like growths in clusters on genitals or anus.
* HIV/AIDS — Night sweats, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, headaches.
* Gonorrhoea — Cloudy vaginal discharge and vaginal itching (females), yellowish discharge, painful urination (males).
* Candidiasis (yeast infection) — Cloudy vaginal discharge and vaginal itching (females); yellowish discharge, painful urination (males).
* Hepatitis B — Fever, fatigue, nausea.
* Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) — Affects females only. It presents with lower abdominal pain, fever, bleeding between menstrual periods.
* Crabs (pubic lice)/scabies) — Intense itching, tiny but visible crab-like insects in hair on genitals.
* Syphilis — Sores on genitals, mouth and/or anus, rash, fever, sore throat.
* Trichomoniasis — Vaginal itching and greenish, foul-smelling discharge (females); clear discharge (males).
It is very important that you look out for any of these symptoms after sexual intercourse:
*Any new or unusual discharge or odour from the vagina and/or discharge from the penis, usually a yellow or green colour, thick in texture, pain in the pelvis, burning or itching around the vagina or penis, unusual bleeding, painful intercourse, sores, bumps or blisters in or around the genital area, burning or pain during urination, flu-like symptoms which could include fever, aches and pains, tiredness, or weakness.
*If you have done anal sex, you may experience some of these symptoms around the anus or buttocks including unusual bumps, blisters and sore. After oral sex you may notice bumps, blisters or sores in and around the mouth.
It should be noted that HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis, Herpes and Genital Warts cannot be cured but can only be managed. Therefore, you will be able to pass this on to your next partner before even knowing you are infected.
Condom use does not prevent the possibility of Herpes or Crabs, as during foreplay if genitals are infected and you are in contact with them, you may become infected yourself.
Abstinence is the only true prevention of these diseases. However, having intercourse with one partner who has been tested while you yourself has been, will reduce your chances of becoming infected.
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