Did you know that the history of STIs can be traced back to ancient civilisations? This blog post will look at some of the earliest records of sexually transmitted infections and explore how they have evolved. We will also discuss some of the most common STIs today and highlight the importance of getting tested regularly. If you are concerned about your sexual health, make sure to read this post and check out the best sexual clinic in London!
The History Of STIs Can Be Traced Back To Ancient Civilizations.
The first mentions of sexually transmitted infections can be found in ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans. For instance, around 400 B.C, Hippocrates described a condition that sounds like gonorrhoea! In addition to this, there is also evidence that syphilis was a common problem in ancient times. Unfortunately, there was no evidence of proper cure or prevention in these times.
In the United States alone, there were 19 million new cases of STIs in 2010. This stunning statistic can be traced back to at least Ebers papyrus around 1500 BC and Old Testament scripture centuries ago!
The History Of Treatment
In the 18th and 19th centuries, physicians used mercury, arsenic, or sulphur to treat STIs. The treatments often resulted in serious side effects, which caused many deaths from exposure to these toxins; however, it wasn’t until 1910 that a new treatment was introduced – Salvarsan (or arsphenamine). That would change everything!
In the 20th century, a cure for bacterial STDs was developed, which led to promiscuous conduct becoming less of an issue. In addition, this discovery also led people to be not so afraid about acquiring viral infections such as HIV and Herpes Simplex virus type 1 (HSV).
However, just because a cure has been found, this doesn’t mean that the dangers of STIs have disappeared. There are now more than 20 different infections that can be transmitted through sexual contact!
The Stigma Attached To STIs
In the past, there were many negative stigmas attached to STI, which made it difficult for people to get treatment. People were often ashamed and felt like they were dirty or diseased. This is one of the reasons why many people still do not get tested – even though it is now easier than ever to do so. Today, we have a better understanding of STIs and prevent them. Now STI s are seen as a health issue that can be managed with medication and treatment.
It is also important to remember that STI testing centres such as Gum Clinic London are completely confidential – you don’t have to share your results or even tell anyone else if you don’t want to. Our private gum clinic in London offers confidential, speedy and accurate testing.
The Most Common STIsToday
Several different sexually transmitted infections are prevalent today, including chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and herpes. Below we will cover the primary symptoms and some tips on dealing with them.
Chlamydia
The symptoms associated with chlamydia can often be mistaken for a UTI (urinary tract infection). They include pain when urinating, a frequent need to pee and blood in the urine. If you think you might have chlamydia, getting tested as soon as possible is essential.
Gonorrhoea
Gonorrhoea is caused by the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The symptoms can vary from person to person; however, the typical symptoms of gonorrhoea are a thick green or yellow discharge from the vagina, pain when peeing, and in women, period bleeding. Around 1/10 males have been reported as being infected with this STD.
Herpes
Genital Herpes is a virus that can lead to blisters and sores all over the genitalia. Women may experience pain when they pee or have vaginal discharge, unlike others listed above; this isn’t just an illness you get rid of quick!
If you do unfortunately contract any of these STIs, some tips on how to deal with them include:
- drink plenty of fluids
- avoid sexual activity until you have been treated
- using a condom every time you have sex
- Take your medication consistently.
Ready To Book An STI Test?
As we can see, STIs have been around for a long time. They are not going anywhere anytime soon, and there is no way to avoid them entirely in the digital age. However, with knowledge about how they work and what you’re up against regarding prevention methods, you can make informed decisions that will help keep your health on track. If you would like to learn more about STIs we recommend this page by the NHS. The most important thing is educating yourself! Contact Broadgate GP to book your private and confidential STI test. If you would like to learn more about sexual health checks and how your sex life changes with age then we provide further information.
