Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a group of infections most commonly spread through sexual contact. The infectious disease specialists at Hattiesburg Clinic are particularly skilled in diagnosing and treating STIs, especially recurrent infections, drug-resistant infections and those involving more serious complications.
Our infectious disease specialists offer a higher level of expertise in cases that are more complicated or linked to additional health issues. We can manage long-term care and address infections such as gonorrhea or syphilis. Many STIs can have systemic effects. Our team works to not only treat the infection but also prevent further complications such as infertility, neurological damage or an increased risk of other infections. Our team of infectious disease specialists collaborate with the primary care, dermatologists and gynecologists within the Hattiesburg Clinic network to provide coordinated care to address all aspects of the infection.
Chlamydia: One of the most commonly reported STIs, but because it is often asymptomatic it can be undiagnosed. When symptoms do present they include abnormal discharge, burning sensation during urination and pain during sex. Left untreated it can lead to complications like pelvic inflammatory disease. Chlamydia is completely curable with antibiotics.
Gonorrhea: While it is similar to chlamydia in that it is often asymptomatic, gonorrhea can include pelvic and testicular pain or bleeding, painful urination and abnormal discharge. It is becoming more resistant to antibiotics, so specialized treatment is needed.
Syphilis: Syphilis can progress in stages, from painless sores on the genitals or mouth to full skin rashes and swollen lymph nodes, to a severe infection affecting the heart, brain and other organs. Syphilis is easily cured when caught early. Look out for painless, round, firm and smooth-edged sores.
Herpes: Herpes sores start as small painful blisters that eventually rupture. They often appear in clusters on the genitals, buttocks or mouth and often recur in the same location due to the reactivation of the virus. Antiviral medications can help manage outbreaks and reduce transmission. But, after initial healing, the herpes virus is dormant but can recur due to stress or illness.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV): HPV is the most common STI and the virus can be cleared by the body’s own immune system without symptoms. But, certain strains of HPV can lead to genital warts or even cancer (cervical, anal or throat). Because it is often asymptomatic it is highly transmissible.
Trichomoniasis: Trichomoniasis is caused by a parasite rather than a bacteria or virus and is treatable with an antiparasitic medication. Men are more likely to be asymptomatic and able to spread the infection. Women experience itching, burning, redness and discharge. If left untreated, trichomoniasis can lead to an increased risk of other STIs and in pregnant women, premature birth.
To prevent recurrent infections if you have been diagnosed with an STI, it is essential to take all of your prescribed medications as directed, even if symptoms disappear. Completing a full prescription of antibiotics for chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis helps to alleviate symptoms, prevent spread and avoid drug resistance. Antiviral medications can help manage outbreaks in herpes, HPV and HIV. Avoid sexual contact during viral outbreaks to reduce the risk of transmission to your partner. Open communication helps to prevent reinfection and spreading.
For those with viral STIs, stress and illness can trigger outbreaks. Maintain a healthy lifestyle, get enough rest and limit alcohol. Regular checkups with the infectious disease specialists at Hattiesburg Clinic are important to monitor your STI, manage recurrent infections and adjust treatments if necessary.
Hattiesburg Clinic’s multidisciplinary team of doctors offers some of the most advanced treatment options in the state for a wide range of sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia, herpes, gonorrhea and more.