Untreated STIs: Potential Complications

STIs, or sexually transmitted infections, are infections passed primarily through sexual contact. They can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Common examples include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, warts, herpes, HIV, and trichomoniasis. Many STIs spread through vaginal, oral, or anal sex, but some—like herpes and HPV—can also spread through skin-to-skin contact. Factors like unprotected sex, multiple partners, and lack of regular testing increase the risk of getting an STI. Untreated STIs can cause serious health complications. 

What Happens If STIs Are Left Untreated?

Most people think of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as short-term problems with quick fixes. But that’s not always the case. If left untreated, some STIs can lead to serious long-term health complications that affect your body for years. Let’s break down what can happen if you ignore these infections and why early testing and treatment matter.

Infertility and Reproductive Damage

Untreated chlamydia and gonorrhea can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women. This condition damages the fallopian tubes. It may cause chronic pelvic pain and infertility.

In men, these infections can cause epididymitis. This painful condition affects the tube that stores and carries sperm. If not treated, it can lead to infertility too.

Research has shown that untreated chlamydia is a leading cause of preventable infertility in women.

Increased HIV Risk

STIs like herpes, syphilis, and gonorrhea can raise your risk of getting HIV. Open sores or inflammation caused by STIs make it easier for HIV to enter the body.

According to research, people with STIs are up to five times more likely to contract HIV during unprotected sex.

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Complications in Pregnancy

Pregnant individuals with untreated STIs may face serious issues. These include miscarriage, premature birth, low birth weight, and even stillbirth.

Babies can also get infected during childbirth. For example, herpes or syphilis can be passed on and cause life-threatening conditions in newborns.

Studies say untreated syphilis during pregnancy increases the risk of stillbirth or newborn death by up to 40%.

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Ectopic Pregnancy

Scarring in the fallopian tubes from infections can increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy, which can be life-threatening.

Long-Term Organ Damage

Some STIs don’t show symptoms right away. But over time, they can quietly harm vital organs.

Syphilis, for example, can spread to the brain, heart, and nerves years after infection. This late stage can be fatal if untreated.

It has been shown that untreated syphilis can lead to neurosyphilis and cardiovascular damage even decades later.

Chronic Pain and Discomfort

Certain STIs can cause lifelong symptoms even after the infection is treated. Genital herpes, for instance, doesn’t go away.

Outbreaks can recur and may cause ongoing pain, stress, or embarrassment. For many people, this has a real emotional impact.

According to research, recurring herpes symptoms can significantly reduce quality of life in affected individuals.

Prostate Infections (Prostatitis)

In men, untreated STIs can lead to inflammation of the prostate gland, causing pain and urinary issues.

Reactive Arthritis

According to research, infections like chlamydia can trigger reactive arthritis—a painful condition affecting the joints, eyes, and urethra.

Cervical Cancer

Persistent infection with high-risk strains of HPV can lead to cervical cancer over time..

Skin and Mucous Membrane Damage

Herpes and syphilis can cause painful sores that may recur or worsen over time if left untreated.

Mental Health Effects

The emotional toll of chronic symptoms, stigma, or complications can lead to anxiety, depression, and stress..

Summary 

STIs aren’t just a short-term issue. Ignoring them can create long-term problems that affect your health, relationships, and mental well-being.

The good news? Most STIs are treatable, especially when caught early. Regular testing, open communication, and safe sex practices can help prevent serious complications.

Terminator Herbal Tea – Natural Treatment for STIs and UTIs

Herbal remedies have long played a powerful role in the treatment of infections and support to the body’s natural healing process. Today, many people around the world turn to plant-based solutions to help reduce symptoms, target the root causes of infections, and promote healing. Terminator Herbal Tea is specially formulated to help treat sexually transmitted infections and urinary tract infections using time-tested herbal principles. It works to cleanse the urinary tract, reduce inflammation, and support your body’s ability to fight off infection. Whether you’re dealing with discomfort, discharge, or frequent urination, Terminator offers a natural, effective solution.

Choose Terminator Herbal Tea as your trusted herbal solution for infection treatment. Let nature help you heal.

Your Wellness Is Our Concern At Fekomi Wellness

Our team of highly qualified and certified healthcare consultants at Fekomi wellness are always ready and happy to help you with your health concerns. Visit Fekomiwellness today to  book an appointment and get started on your health journey. Kindly call our desk line on +2349074197154 for more enquiries.

References

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/std/chlamydia/stdfact-chlamydia.htm
• World Health Organization:  https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/sexually-transmitted-infections-(stis)
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/std/syphilis/stdfact-syphilis.htm
• National Center for Biotechnology Information: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534822/
• National Center for Biotechnology Information: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6512091/