Infections

Key Concepts/Main Points

• How to prevent contracting a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI), formerly called a Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD).
• How to recognize and seek treatment for an infection.
• Understanding the short term and long–term affects that STIs can have.

Questions to Ask Yourself

• Do you know what an infection is?
• How often do you have unprotected sex?
• Have you ever had a Urinary Tract Infection?
• Do you protect yourself from STIs? If so, how?

What is an Infection?

• An infection is any invasion and multiplication of microorganisms in the body. These infectious diseases are caused by viruses, parasites, bacteria and fungi; symptoms can be anything from a common illness (like a cold) to deadly illnesses (like HIV/AIDS.)
• There are many different types of infections that people can acquire. In this section, we’re going to focus on infections that can result from sexual activity and infections that pose a threat to future pregnancy.

How to Recognize an Infection:

Every STI has different symptoms. Here are some of the most common symptoms associated with STIs:

• Itching around the vagina and/or discharge from the vagina
• Pain during sex, when urinating, or in the pelvic area
• Sore throats in people who have oral sex
• Pain in or around the anus for people who have anal sex
• Chancre sores (painless red sores) on the genital area, anus, tongue and/or throat
• A scaly rash on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet
• Dark urine, loose, light–colored stools, and yellow eyes and skin
• Small blisters that turn into scabs or flesh–colored warts on the genital area
• Swollen glands, fever and body aches
• Unusual infections, unexplained fatigue, night sweats and weight loss

Instructor Tips:
Section Goal: Educate the participant on how to prevent, recognize, and treat any infection that poses a threat to her health and future pregnancies.