April (April 13-19, 2025) marks Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Awareness Month, a crucial time to educate individuals about the importance of sexual health, early diagnosis, and effective treatment options.
Despite significant medical advancements, STIs remain a major public health concern, affecting millions worldwide.
See some statistics about STIs
- According to WHO Reports, Every day, more than 1 million treatable sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are acquired in people aged 15 to 49 worldwide, with the majority of them asymptomatic.
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is responsible for about 311 000 cervical cancer deaths per year.
- STIs have a direct impact on sexual and reproductive health, causing stigma, infertility, malignancies, and pregnancy difficulties, and they can raise the risk of HIV.
- In 2022, an estimated 1.1 million pregnant women would be afflicted with syphilis, resulting in about 390 000 poor birth outcomes.
Dr. Astha Dayal, Director Gynaecologist-Obstetrician and Laparoscopic Surgeon at CK Birla Hospital, Gurgaon, and Founder of Disha Clinic, emphasizes the need for awareness, prevention, and accessible treatment to ensure a healthier future for women.
STIs: Why Awareness Matters to all Women
STIs are infections that spread largely through sexual contact, which includes vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Some of the most frequent STIs affecting women are:
- Chlamydia,
- Gonorrhea,
- Syphilis,
- Human papillomavirus (HPV),
- Herpes, and
- HIV.
These infections frequently go untreated due to a lack of symptoms or social stigma, resulting in serious problems such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, pregnancy issues, and cervical cancer.
Dr. Astha Dayal emphasizes that early detection and treatment can dramatically lessen the long-term consequences of STIs. “Many sexually transmitted infections are curable and controlled with proper management.
Women should prioritize regular exams and appointments with their gynaecologist to protect their reproductive health, she recommends.
What are the Key Risk Factors
Women are often more vulnerable to STIs due to biological and social factors. Risk factors include:
- Unprotected sexual activity
- Multiple sexual partners
- Lack of regular STI screening
- Weakened immune system
- Lack of awareness about STIs and their consequences
To prevent STIs, Dr. Astha Dayal recommends:
✅ Safe sex involves wearing condoms and dental dams.
✅ Vaccination against HPV and Hepatitis B
✅ Sexually active persons should receive routine STI tests.
✅ Maintain open discussion with partners regarding sexual health.
✅ Seeking immediate medical attention in the event of unexpected symptoms
The Role of Advanced Gynaecology treatment in STI Management
Dr. Astha Dayal and her team at Disha Clinic and CK Birla Hospital in Gurgaon specialize in sophisticated gynaecological treatments for the successful diagnosis and management of STI. She employs cutting-edge techniques, including:
• At CK Birla Hospital we Use most advanced laparoscopy and hysteroscopy to diagnose consequences from untreated sexually transmitted infections.
• Regenerative medicine and aesthetic gynaecology can help manage STI-related problems, including as scarring and tissue damage.
• Robotic Gyane surgery enables accurate and minimally invasive procedures.
• Uro-gynaecology therapy can address bladder infections and pelvic floor issues associated with STIs.
Destigmatizing STIs: Encouraging Open Conversations
The stigma associated with sexual health talks serves as a substantial obstacle to STI prevention.
Dr. Dayal encourages women to break their silence and seek medical care without fear. “Your sexual health is an essential component of your overall well-being.” “We need to normalize STI conversations to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment,” Dr Astha Dayal says.
Disha Clinic and CK Birla Hospital provide a safe and judgment-free atmosphere in which women can openly share their issues. The clinic’s individualized attention guarantees that each patient receives the finest available medical advice and treatment alternatives.
Take Charge of Your Sexual Health This STI Awareness Month
As we observe STI Awareness Month 2025, let’s prioritize education, prevention, and early detection. Women must take proactive steps by scheduling routine check-ups, practicing safe sex, and staying informed.
Dr. Astha Dayal and her dedicated nursing care team continue to provide world-class gynaecological treatment, equipping women with the knowledge and resources they need to live better lives.
For expert consultation and STI screening, visit Disha Clinic, Gurgaon, or schedule an appointment with Dr. Astha Dayal today.
Helpful Source
https://www.hiv.gov/blog/resources-for-sti-awareness-week-april-14-20-2024
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/sexually-transmitted-infections-(stis)
