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Transmission of Infection:
Many of the organisms that cause sexually-transmitted diseases live on the mucous membranes that line the urethra, vagina, anus, and mouth. Some also live on the skin.
Most of the infectious organisms are transferred by direct contact with a sore or lesion on the genitals or mouth. However, some organisms can live in body fluids without causing a visible lesion and are transferred by contact with the body fluid.
Sexually-transmitted diseases are transmitted by both heterosexual and homosexual practices. They can be transferred to another person during oral, vaginal, or anal intercourse. Some sexual practices, such as anal intercourse, carry higher risk of transmission of certain diseases than other sexual practices.
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| Many sexually-transmitted diseases (STDs) invade the host and reside for long periods of time without killing the host. A good example is syphilis, which may reside in its host for 30 to 50 years. HIV also can take 10 or more years to kill its host, allowing plenty of time to spread the infection. |
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