Sexually Transmitted Diseases-An Update and Overview of Current Research

A rise in the rates of sexually transmitted diseases, both worldwide and in Germany, has been observed especially among persons between the ages of 15 and 24 years. Since many infections are devoid of symptoms or cause few symptoms, the diseases are detected late, may spread unchecked, and be transmitted unwittingly. In the event of persistent infection, the effects depend on the pathogen in question. Manifestations vary widely, ranging from pelvic inflammatory disease, most often caused by Chlamydia trachomatis (in Germany nearly 30% of PID) or Neisseria gonorrhoeae (in Germany <2% of PID), to the development of genital warts or cervical dysplasia in cases of infection with the HP virus. Causal treatment does exist in most cases and should always be administered to the sexual partner(s) as well. An infection during pregnancy calls for an individual treatment approach, depending on the pathogen and the week of pregnancy.

Automated summary

An increase in sexually transmitted diseases has been observed among individuals aged 15 to 24, both globally and in Germany. Many infections are asymptomatic or have mild symptoms, resulting in late detection and unintentional transmission. The effects of persistent infection depend on the specific pathogen, with manifestations ranging from pelvic inflammatory disease to genital warts or cervical dysplasia. Most cases can be treated, and treatment should be given to sexual partners as well. Individualized treatment approaches are required for pregnant individuals based on the pathogen and stage of pregnancy.