More than a million new cases of sexually transmitted infections are reported every day around the world. In 2016, the WHO reported 376 million new infections with the four most common bacteria and protozoa that cause syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia and trichomoniasis. The level of viral infections is equally high. Official data shows that there are nearly 417 million people infected with the herpes virus and about 291 million women with HPV (human papilloma virus) infection. It should be remembered that a large percentage of cases of infections in intimate areas are not included in the statistics. The reasons for this include the lack of or non-specific symptoms of infection and the feeling of shame before visiting a doctor for an examination.
The infection usually occurs during sexual intercourse. Intercourse without condom protection, especially with a new partner, is the main cause of spreading infections. It should be stressed that infection can occur during any kind of sexual intercourse. Oral intercourse without latex protection can also pose a real threat.
Sexually transmitted infections can be caused by:
- bacteria
- viruses
- fungi
- protozoa
See the most common pathogens that cause infections in intimate areas
| Infectious agent | Complication |
| Bacteria | |
| Neisseria gonorrhoeae | Gonorrhea |
| Chlamydia trachomatis | Chlamydia |
| Treponema pallidum | Syphilis |
| Haemophilus ducreyi | Chancroid |
| Mycoplasma genitalium | Mycoplasmosis |
| Mycoplasma hominis | Mycoplasmosis |
| Ureaplasma parvum | Ureaplasma infection |
| Ureaplasma urealyticum | Ureaplasma infection |
| Viruses | |
| HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) | AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome) |
| HSV-1 (herpes simplex virus) | Herpes labialis |
| HSV-2 (herpes simplex virus) | Herpes genitalis |
| HPV (human papilloma virus) | Genital warts / cervical dysplasia |
| HBV (Hepatitis B virus) | Hepatitis B |
| HCV (Hepatitis C virus) | Hepatitis C |
| Cytomegalovirus | Cytomegaloviral disease |
| Protozoa | |
| Trichomonas vaginalis | Trichomoniasis |
| Fungi | |
| Candida albicans | Candidiasis |
Most infections in intimate areas are curable, but a quick and effective diagnosis is necessary, as untreated infections may lead to serious complications, including infertility.