How do you get Pubic Lice/How can you get “Crabs?” Causes: Pubic lice are sometimes known as “crabs.” The condition is caused by a very tiny parasitic mite that settles in the pubic hair and feeds on human blood. Crabs are usually spread through sexual contact (and latex barriers – such as condoms – usually […]
Scabies – Another STI Caused by Mites
How do you get Scabies/How can you get it? Causes: Scabies is an easily spread skin disease caused by a very small species of mite. This parasitic infection is spread by skin-to-skin contact with another person who has scabies. Scabies are transmitted through close physical contact; as a result, this parasite is often sexually transmitted. However, children often pass […]
Syphilis – One of the Oldest Known STI/STDs
How do you get Syphilis/How can you get it? Syphilis Causes: Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It has often been called “the great imitator” because so many of the signs and symptoms are indistinguishable from those of other diseases. Syphilis is spread through skin-to-skin contact when someone touches a sore […]
Trichomoniasis – Trich – A Common STI in People with Vulvas/Vaginas
How do you get Trichomoniasis/How can you get Trichomoniasis? Trich Causes: Trich is caused by the single-cell protozoan parasite trichomonas vaginalis. The vagina is the most common site of infection (resulting in small open sores on the vaginal wall), and the urethra is the 2nd most common site of infection. The parasite is contracted via direct […]
Vaginitis – Bacterial Vaginosis and Yeast Infections
How do you get Vaginitis/How can you get Vaginitis? Vaginitis Causes: Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina that can result in discharge, itching and pain. It can be caused by bacteria, yeasts, viruses, and other parasites. Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can cause vaginitis, as can various chemicals found in bubble baths, soaps, and perfumes. […]
Mononucleosis (‘Mono’) – An Epstein-Barr Virus Infection
How do you get Mononucleosis/How can you get Mononucleosis? Mononucleosis Causes: Mononucleosis (“Mono”) is a general infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) but can also be caused by other organisms such as cytomegalovirus (CMV). In the United States, about 50% of all children 5 years of age and nearly 95% of adults have had an […]
Molluscum Contagiosum – An STI/STD Affecting the Skin
How do you get Molluscum Contagiosum/How can you get Molluscum Contagiosum? Molluscum Contagiosum Causes: Molluscum contagiosum is caused by a virus that is a member of the poxvirus family. The virus may be sexually transmitted by skin-to-skin contact (does not have to be mucous membranes) and/or lesions. Transmission through sexual contact is the most common form […]
Lymphogranuloma Venereum – LGV – A Chronic Long-term STD
How do you get LGV/How can you get LGV? Lymphogranuloma Venereum Causes: LGV (Lymphogranuloma venereum) is a is a chronic (long-term) sexually transmitted infection of the lymphatic system caused by three strains of the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. The infection is not caused by the same bacteria that cause genital chlamydia. Lymphogranuloma venereum is passed from person to person through direct contact with […]
