Anal warts (condyloma acuminata) are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection. The warts thrive inside and around the anus, and can also be found inside of the genitals.1 Transmission and Symptoms A person can contract HPV through oral, penile-vaginal (coital), and anal sex with an infected partner. HPV is highly contagious, and…
Tag: STIs
STI Testing
NOTE: The term sexually transmitted infection (STI) is often used interchangeably with sexually transmitted disease (STD); this article will use STI to represent the group of conditions that are traditionally acquired through sexual contact. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a major public health concern around the world. In fact, there are more than one million…
Molluscum Contagiosum
Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV) from the Poxviridae family, which causes pearl-like bumps on the skin. The virus can be transmitted through direct contact with infected skin, indirect contact via objects or materials that carry the virus (e.g., towels, razors, toys, clothing, bedding, gym equipment), and…
HIV/AIDS
HIV, or Human Immunodeficiency Virus, is a sexually transmitted virus that, if left untreated, can progress to AIDS. AIDS stands for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, and is the symptomatic part of this infection. Because HIV is a “retrovirus,” each virus is encased in a protein shell, which allows them to attack and alter cells from the host…
An Overview of STIs
The Basics Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections that can be spread through sexual contact such as intercourse, oral sex, kissing, or shared sex toys. Also referred to as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), these conditions are more often asymptomatic than not, which means an infected individual does not show signs of infection. To contract an STI,…
Swinging
Swinging is a polyamorous practice in which both singles and partners engage in sexual activities with other partners. Swinging is also referred to as comarital sex, wife swapping, husband swapping, and partner swapping. Although traditionally swinging has been used to refer to couples in committed relationships engaging in sexual activities with other couples, single people and non-committed…
The Catholic Church and Contraception
Historically, the Catholic Church and contraception have had a contentious relationship. As early as the second century, the Church took the firm position that the use of contraception—as well as the act of engaging in any form of recreational sex that does not lead to procreation—was considered sinful. Evidence of this belief dates back to the Didache, a second-century document…
Genital Warts
Genital warts are a sexually transmitted infection (STI).1 They can be transmitted through sexual contact such as oral, penile/vaginal, and anal sex.1 However, transmission can also occur merely through skin to skin contact with someone who is already infected.1 Typically, genital warts appear on the skin in the genital or anal area.1 They are treatable…
Toxic Shock Syndrome
Warning: If you show signs of toxic shock syndrome including fever, vomiting, low blood pressure, or a sunburn-like rash, particularly during menstruation and tampon use or if you have had a recent surgery, we advise you to seek immediate medical attention. Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare, life-threatening complication of certain types of bacterial…