Glasgow’s Sandyford Clinic is hosting an adult event at the Glasgow Science Centre to discuss and highlight sexual diseases, such as gonorrhoea and syphilis.
Microscope
Sandyford Clinic does an enormous amount of work with the public, helping with problems related to sexual health, relationships and well-being. They wish to encourage people to see first-hand what these diseases look like under the microscope. Many of these infections are not visible to the naked eye when they first set in, so one of the messages that the experts wish to get across is to get check-ups regularly and not feel embarrassed. The quicker the infection is discovered, the sooner treatments can begin and fewer people will get infected.
Infections
One of the infections discussed was Gonorrhoea, a bacterial STI passed to a sexual partner in unprotected sex. Symptoms for men include a burning sensation when urinating, whilst women sometimes have abdominal pain and pain upon urination. Antibiotics will be given as treatment.
Syphilis is a bacterial infection with few or no symptoms. If left untreated, it can cause damage to the nervous system, heart, liver, brain and eyes. Penicillin injections into the buttock are given as treatment.
Pubic lice are tiny parasites that live in coarse pubic hair and are spread by close body contact. Symptoms include itching in the affected area and black powder in your underwear. Lotions and shampoo can be used as treatment.
Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that shows no symptoms but it can lead to Epididymitis in men and Pelvic Inflammatory Disease in women if left untreated. A course of antibiotics is offered as treatment.
Trichomonas vaginalis is caused by tiny parasites that are spread by unprotected sex and sharing sex toys. A course of antibiotics is required to clear the infection.
Non-specific Urethritis in inflammation of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the body. This infection will need treatment with a course of antibiotics.
Tests
If you feel too embarrassed to get checked out, you can self-check at home. Kits are widely available throughout the UK from clinics such as London Home STI kits at https://www.bexleysexualhealth.org/chlamydia_screening/.
The Glasgow Science Centre hosts all sorts of events. Representatives say these adult-only events have become very popular and that passing on this information and advice can help a lot of people.