Sexually Transmitted Disease

What Are Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)?

A Complete Medical Guide to Sexually Transmitted Disease, STD in Nepal & STD Treatment in Nepal

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), also known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are infections that spread primarily through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. A sexually transmitted disease can affect anyone, men or women, young or old and many people may carry an infection without any visible symptoms.

In Nepal, awareness about STD in Nepal is increasing, but fear, stigma, and misinformation still prevent many people from seeking timely care. This comprehensive guide is designed to provide accurate, evidence-based, and patient-friendly information to help individuals understand STDs, recognize symptoms, and seek proper STD treatment in Nepal.

This article is written and medically reviewed by Dr. Parash Shrestha, Consultant Dermatologist & Venereologist.

sexually transmitted disease

Why Understanding Sexually Transmitted Disease Is Important

Sexually transmitted disease is not just a personal health issue it is a public health concern. Untreated STDs can lead to infertility, pregnancy complications, chronic pain, and increased risk of HIV transmission.

Global & Regional Data

  • According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 1 million STDs are acquired every single day worldwide.
  • Every year, around 374 million new infections occur from four curable STDs: chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis.
  • Studies show that over 50% of women with STDs may have no symptoms initially.

In Nepal, exact numbers are underreported due to:

  • Social stigma
  • Lack of routine screening
  • Delay in seeking medical care

This makes education on STD in Nepal critically important.

What Is a Sexually Transmitted Disease?

A sexually transmitted disease is an infection caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites that spreads mainly through sexual contact. Some STDs can also spread through:

  • Skin-to-skin genital contact
  • Sharing needles
  • From mother to baby during pregnancy or childbirth

Not all STDs require penetration; simple contact with infected skin or fluids can be enough.

Causes of Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Sexually transmitted diseases are caused by three main groups of organisms:

1. Bacterial STDs

These are curable with proper medical treatment.

  • Chlamydia
  • Gonorrhea
  • Syphilis

2. Viral STDs

These are not completely curable, but can be well controlled.

  • HIV
  • Genital herpes (HSV)
  • Human papillomavirus (HPV)
  • Hepatitis B

3. Parasitic STDs

These are treatable once diagnosed.

  • Trichomoniasis
  • Pubic lice

Sexually Transmitted Diseases List (Common STDs)

Table: Types of Sexually Transmitted Disease

CategoryDiseaseCurableNotes
BacterialChlamydiaYesOften silent, infertility risk
BacterialGonorrheaYesDrug resistance increasing
BacterialSyphilisYesSerious if untreated
ViralHIVNoLong-term management
ViralHerpes (HSV)NoRecurrent outbreaks
ViralHPVNoCan cause cancer
ViralHepatitis BNoPreventable by vaccine
ParasiticTrichomoniasisYesCommon, treatable

What Are the Top 10 Sexually Transmitted Diseases?

  1. Chlamydia
  2. Gonorrhea
  3. Syphilis
  4. HIV
  5. Genital Herpes
  6. Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
  7. Hepatitis B
  8. Trichomoniasis
  9. Genital Warts
  10. Pubic Lice

These conditions make up the majority of STD cases in Nepal and South Asia.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases Symptoms

One of the biggest dangers of a sexually transmitted disease is that symptoms may be mild or absent.

Symptoms of STD in Male

  • Burning or pain during urination
  • Discharge from the penis
  • Genital sores, ulcers, or blisters
  • Testicular pain or swelling
  • Genital itching or rash

Symptoms of STD in Female

  • Abnormal vaginal discharge
  • Pelvic or lower abdominal pain
  • Pain during sexual activity
  • Irregular vaginal bleeding
  • Genital itching, sores, or rashes

⚠️ Important: Absence of symptoms does NOT mean absence of disease.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases Pictures: Why Self-Diagnosis Is Risky

dr parash shrestha

Many people search online for sexually transmitted diseases pictures. While images can raise awareness, STDs cannot be accurately diagnosed by pictures alone. Several non-STD skin conditions closely resemble STDs.

👉 Laboratory testing and medical examination are essential.

STD in Nepal: Current Reality

In Nepal:

  • Young adults are the most affected group
  • Many patients seek help late due to embarrassment
  • Self-medication from pharmacies is common

This leads to:

  • Incomplete treatment
  • Recurrence
  • Complications

Education and access to professional STD treatment in Nepal are essential to control the spread.

How Are Sexually Transmitted Diseases Diagnosed?

Diagnosis depends on symptoms and risk factors and may include:

  • Blood tests
  • Urine tests
  • Swab tests
  • Physical examination

All STD testing is confidential and ethical.

STD Treatment in Nepal

Table: STD Treatment Overview

STD TypeTreatment
Bacterial STDsAntibiotics
Parasitic STDsAntiparasitic medication
Viral STDsLong-term medical management

✔️ Early treatment leads to full recovery in curable STDs
❌ Self-treatment or delayed care increases complications

Why Early STD Treatment Is Critical

Untreated sexually transmitted disease can lead to:

  • Infertility in men and women
  • Chronic pelvic pain
  • Pregnancy complications
  • Increased HIV risk
  • Long-term organ damage

Early STD treatment in Nepal prevents these outcomes.

Can Sexually Transmitted Diseases Be Prevented?

Yes. Prevention includes:

  • Correct and consistent protection
  • Regular STD screening
  • Limiting high-risk sexual behavior
  • Vaccination (HPV, Hepatitis B)
  • Prompt medical consultation

When Should You See a Doctor?

Consult a specialist if:

  • You notice genital symptoms
  • You had unprotected sexual contact
  • Your partner has an STD
  • You want routine sexual health screening

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a sexually transmitted disease?

A sexually transmitted disease is an infection spread mainly through sexual contact.

Are STDs common in Nepal?

Yes. STDs are common but underreported due to stigma.

Can STDs be cured?

Many STDs are curable; others are manageable with medical care.

Is STD testing confidential in Nepal?

Yes. Medical confidentiality is strictly maintained.

Can STDs affect fertility?

Yes. Untreated STDs can cause infertility.

Author Note

Written & Medically Reviewed by
Dr. Parash Shrestha
Consultant Dermatologist & Venereologist
MBBS, MD, FAM

Dr. Shrestha has 7+ years of experience in diagnosing and managing sexually transmitted diseases, STD in Nepal, and STD treatment in Nepal, providing evidence-based and confidential care.

Final Thoughts

Sexually transmitted disease is a medical condition, not a social judgment. With awareness, early diagnosis, and expert care, STDs can be treated or effectively managed.

If you have concerns regarding STD in Nepal or need professional STD treatment in Nepal, timely consultation ensures safety, privacy, and peace of mind.

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