What does a venereologist treat? When to Contact a Venereologist
A venereologist is a narrow medical specialist involved in the treatment of sexually transmitted diseases.
What does a venereologist treat?
The main area of competence of a venereologist is the diagnosis and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases.
These are mainly infections that are caused by microorganisms:
- Treponema pallidum (syphilis);
- gonococci (gonorrhea);
- chlamydia;
- mycoplasmas;
- Trichomonas;
- gardnerella;
- herpes virus;
- papillomavirus;
- mushrooms of the genus Candida;
- cytomegalovirus.
- scabies (itch mite);
- phthiriasis ( pubic lice).
In some cases, the venereologist only diagnoses the infection, but refers to another specialist for treatment. Such diseases include viral hepatitis, HIV - they are mainly treated by infectious disease specialists.
But in most cases, the doctor venereologist, after discovering the disease, prescribes the treatment himself. Usually these are antimicrobial drugs of different pharmacological groups.
Venereologist: what treats in men?
Often, a venereologist performs the functions of a urologist. The fact is that diseases of the male reproductive system are often provoked by pathogens of sexually transmitted infections.
Among these pathologies:
- prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate);
- cystitis (inflammation of the bladder);
- urethritis (inflammation urethra);
- orchitis (inflammation of the testicles);
- infertility (in some cases caused by a venereal infection).
Often a venereologist in men treats not only genital infections, but also non-specific inflammatory diseases. A representative of this specialty can treat any pathology.
If it is localized in the organs of the genitourinary system and is presumably caused by microorganisms.
Dermatologist-venereologist: what does he treat?
Often a venereologist is also a dermatologist. This is because many sexually transmitted diseases cause symptoms from skin. For example, syphilis is characterized by a rash all over the body.
With papillomavirus infection, small benign neoplasms on the body. With herpes, vesicles (vesicles) form on the skin and mucous membranes. A person who has seen rashes in himself cannot know whether they are caused by infections or other pathological skin conditions.
Therefore, he goes to an appointment with a dermatologist-venereologist, and he already understands what is the cause of the rash and other symptoms. Thus, the competence of a dermatovenerologist is not only sexual infections. But also others, including noncommunicable diseases skin:
- allergic reactions;
- psoriasis;
- demodicosis;
- acne
- boils;
- ichthyosis;
- eczema.
When should you see a venereologist?
The main reason for a person to contact a venereologist is the appearance of suspicious symptoms from the organs of the reproductive system.
These include:
- rash;
- warts in the genital area or anus;
- pain and burning in the urethra;
- pain during sexual contact;
- erectile dysfunction, ejaculation, orgasm;
- discharge from the genital tract or organs of the urinary system;
- change in the frequency and time of urination.
Also, the services of a venereologist are required:
- for preventive examination after unprotected intercourse;
- for the diagnosis of possible latent genital infections at the stage of pregnancy planning;
- to detect infections as possible causes of infertility.
If you need to diagnose and treat sexually transmitted diseases, you should immediately consult a doctor. Otherwise, complications may develop.
If you suspect sexual infections, contact the competent venereologists of our medical center.
Who is a venereologist
A venereologist is a doctor involved in the study, diagnosis and treatment of diseases such as chlamydia, ureaplasmosis, gonorrhea, syphilis and other sexually transmitted diseases. A venereologist compares the symptoms of urology, gynecology and the genitourinary sphere, which allows timely identification of sexually transmitted diseases a wide range occurrence and timely treatment. A venereologist (dermatovenereologist) deals with the treatment of skin diseases.
Competence of a venereologist
A venereologist diagnoses, treats and prevents STDs (sexually transmitted diseases). His duties include the treatment of the consequences and complications of such diseases:
- Infertility, prostate cancer.
- Prostatitis.
- Cervical cancer, pathology of pregnancy.
What organs does a venereologist deal with?
A venereologist treats internal organs, which include the vagina, penis, testicles, labia major and minor, cervix, and prostate.
What diseases does a venereologist treat?
A venereologist treats:
- Adnexitis, endometritis.
- Cystalgia and microorganisms in semen.
- Gonorrheal urethritis, prostatitis (men).
- Reiter's disease, simple colpitis.
- Syphilis, herpes.
- Bacterial vaginosis.
- Herpes urinary organs.
- Candidiasis (thrush).
- Trichomoniasis, ureaplasmosis and mycoplasmosis.
- Chlamydia.
In what situations should you contact a venereologist
A venereologist should be contacted for problems:
- Itching in the vagina.
- Discomfort, itching, cramps, burning and pain in the urethra.
- Discharge from the urinary organs.
- Eruptions on the genitals.
- Tingling, heaviness, pain in the lower abdomen and perineum.
- Rash on palms, soles and trunk.
- Random sexual intercourse without a condom, regardless of the type of sexual contact (oral, anal, traditional).
- Sexual infection in a permanent sexual partner.
- Disturbed cycle of menstruation.
- Difficulty and frequent urination.
- Protracted or premature ejaculation.
If the symptoms are mild, you should also visit a venereologist, since sexually transmitted diseases that occur in a chronic form do not have pronounced symptoms.
Laboratory tests and diagnostics that a venereologist can prescribe
To determine the disease, it is necessary to pass tests:
- Immunoenzymatic.
- General swab for flora.
- Immunofluorescence.
- Sowing on flora and DNA diagnostics.
- Cytomegalovirus infection and epidemic parotitis.
- A smear for gonorrhea, candidiasis, trichomoniasis, syphilis, chlamydia and gardnerellosis. A special swab, similar to a cotton swab, is used to obtain samples of mucus, secretions and cells. The venereologist takes them from the penis, vagina, anus and larynx. The results are available on the day of submission.
- RW classic, blood for HIV.
- Blood for hepatitis A, B and C.
- General urine analysis.
- Analysis for toxoplasma and prostate secretion.
Diagnostics:
- Gardnerellosis (a smear is examined under a microscope, which confirms or rejects its presence).
- Gonorrhea:
- complaints are clarified;
- examination and palpation of the penis and urethra, testicles and scrotum;
- being investigated prostate, seminal vesicles;
- the discharge and smears taken from the urethra, as well as urine, are examined.
Genital herpes (herpetic lesions of the genitourinary organs are diagnosed, ureterocystoscopy is performed and the discharge from the erosion surface is examined under a microscope).
- Candidiasis (thrush). Candidiasis discharge from the urethra is characteristic. Detected under a microscope.
- Ureaplasmosis and mycoplasmosis are diagnosed by bacteriological methods within a week.
- Trichomoniasis. For detection, microscopy of a smear from the urethra and sowing on a nutrient medium are used.
- Chlamydia. Determination of chlamydia by the RIF reaction in the discharge from the urethra (immunofluorescence using antibodies labeled with the FITC substance).
At the appointment with a venereologist, you should forget about embarrassment and not think about publicity. Reception is anonymous, and the sooner the disease is detected, the easier it is to cure it.
- Avoid casual sex, especially people with high risk infections.
- Adhere to the rules of personal hygiene and require this from your sexual partner.
- Personal hygiene products are strictly individual.
- Make sure that the sexual partner does not have signs of sexually transmitted diseases in the form of a rash and discharge. Only then have sexual intercourse.
- All STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) are transmitted anally and orally.
- Use a condom immediately before sexual intercourse, but 100% protection against infection with sexually transmitted diseases does not exist.
- After casual intercourse, you should:
- wash the intimate part with soap (household);
- rinse with a solution of potassium permanganate or acetic acid;
- urinate, which will reduce the risk of disease urinary tract;
- use antiseptics.
- 2 times a year to be examined by a gynecologist and a urologist.
- Strengthen the immune system.
- Do not engage in self-medication and self-diagnosis. Only a doctor can deliver correct diagnosis and prescribe treatment. It is always individual.
- Treatment should be with a sexual partner at the same time to avoid re-infection.
If you start and do not treat venereal diseases, they turn into chronic form. It leads to infertility, defeat nervous system, intestines, cardiovascular system, development of oncology.
A venereologist is consulted for the diagnosis and treatment of infections that are sexually transmitted. To date, about 25 forms of such diseases are known. The infection can “settle” in the body not only through the genitals, but sometimes through saliva, during blood transfusion, and also through the placental barrier from mother to fetus.
What does a venereologist treat?
A venereologist treats the following diseases:
- venereal granuloma;
- gardnerellosis;
- candidiasis;
- pubic pediculosis;
- gonorrhea;
- herpes;
- mycoplasmosis;
- trichomoniasis;
- syphilis;
- ureaplasmosis;
- AIDS;
- chlamydia;
- cytomegalovirus;
- chancroid;
- scabies, etc.
What is the danger of ignoring treatment?
Diseases in this area that are not treated in time lead to infertility in both men and women. In addition, neglected sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) often give complications to the kidneys and urinary system, affect the mucous membrane, nervous system, bones, brain, etc. Thus, from timely treatment depends on the life of the patient.
When should I go to a venereologist?
Often, sexually transmitted diseases initial stages are asymptomatic, especially in women. However, there are a number of signs in which you should visit a venereologist as soon as possible. These include:
- itching and burning sensation in the genital area;
- frequent painful urge to urinate;
- any inflammation of the genital organs;
- spotting, bleeding;
- the presence of sores, vesicles, warts or other neoplasms, redness;
- urine changes in color, smell, or viscosity;
- rash in the genital area or in other parts of the body for unknown reasons;
- increase in body temperature unclear etiology, swollen lymph nodes;
- plaque on the genitals;
- previous tests were positive for one of the infections.
How is the reception going?
At the appointment, the venereologist will ask the patient to describe as accurately as possible the symptoms that he feels. On this basis, and after initial examination some tests will be ordered. Further consultation with a doctor involves the interpretation of the data obtained and the appointment of adequate treatment. The venereologist will explain what are preventive measures to prevent the recurrence of sexually transmitted diseases.
What tests will need to be done?
- blood test for HIV infection;
- syphilis test (RW);
- PCR diagnostics;
- a smear on the microflora in women and men (helps to identify a genitourinary infection as soon as possible);
- smear for urogenital infections;
- scrapings.
What is PCR diagnostics?
This diagnostic method carried out in the laboratory. Its essence is reduced to the study of DNA fragments in order to identify an infectious agent. And is this method universal? In one material sent for research, several pathogens can be identified at once, from 5 to 13 infections are checked. The diagnosis itself takes no more than one day.
What does the treatment include?
Provided drug therapy aimed at destroying the pathogen. In addition, attention is paid to correcting immune system patient and restoration of the affected microflora of the reproductive system.
Venereologist is a specialist in diagnosis and treatment sexually transmitted diseases transmitted through sexual contact. Also, the competence of a venereologist includes the prevention of these diseases and the prevention of complications caused by them.Venereology is the science of infections that are sexually transmitted, and diseases are accordingly called venereal. The name venereology comes from the Latin word "Venus" - Venus and the Greek "logos" - science. In the mythology of the ancient Romans, Venus is the goddess of love and beauty. That is, venereology, one might say, is the science of diseases that have appeared from love.
What does a venereologist do?
A venereologist specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases of the genitourinary system of men and women, which are transmitted through sexual contact of any form ( oral, anal sex). Sexually transmitted diseases are called venereal diseases. Infections that are transmitted not only through sexual contact, but also through household contact ( ), parenteral ( blood transfusion, infection by contact with blood), vertical ( from mother to fetus) contact, unite under the name "sexually transmitted infections" ( STI) or "sexually transmitted diseases" ( STD) . This term has a broader meaning and includes all venereal and non-venereal diseases ( molluscum contagiosum, pubic lice, scabies, ureaplasmosis). Therefore, in addition to the treatment of sexually transmitted diseases proper, a venereologist is engaged in the diagnosis and treatment of all sexually transmitted diseases. Sexually transmitted diseases are classified by the type of pathogen, by the area of the lesion, by the type of transmission.
Sexually transmitted infections are divided into:
- Classic venereal diseases. Classic venereal diseases include syphilis, gonorrhea, donovanosis, soft chancre, venereal lymphogranuloma. The lowest incidence of classical venereal diseases is observed in highly developed countries ( USA, countries Western Europe ) in comparison with the countries of Africa, Asia, of Eastern Europe and others.
- "New" venereal diseases. The "new" venereal diseases include chlamydia, trichomoniasis, genital herpes, cytomegalovirus, warts, HIV infection, mycoplasmosis, ureaplasmosis, candidiasis. "New" venereal diseases are equally common in both less developed and highly developed countries.
A venereologist is engaged in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of the following diseases:
- syphilis;
- chancroid ( chancroid);
- gonorrhea;
- donovanosis ( );
- venereal lymphogranuloma ( inguinal lymphogranulomatosis);
- urogenital chlamydia;
- urogenital trichomoniasis;
- genital herpes.
Syphilis
Syphilis is an infectious disease that is transmitted mainly through sexual contact and affects the skin, mucous membranes, bones, internal organs, and the nervous system. It is characterized by a chronic slow progressive course. Other routes of infection include - transplacental ( through the placenta from mother to child), household ( through personal hygiene items), transfusion ( transfusion of blood products). Incubation period syphilis ( the period from the moment of infection to the onset of the first symptoms) is between 30 and 32 days. With a single unprotected sexual contact with a patient with syphilis, the probability of infection is about 30%. According to the stage of the disease, syphilis is divided into:
- primary syphilis. Primary syphilis appears after the end of the incubation period. at the point of entry of the infectious agent mucous membrane of the genitals, mouth or intestines) a painless ulcer with dense edges, which is called a hard chancre, appears. Then the lymph nodes in the affected area become inflamed. After 3 to 6 weeks, the hard chancre heals on its own.
- Secondary syphilis. 4 to 10 weeks after the onset of a hard chancre, syphilis enters the second stage. During this period, a symmetrical pale rash appears all over the body. Other symptoms include swollen lymph nodes, malaise, headaches, hair loss, and genital warts.
- Tertiary syphilis. In the third stage, syphilis passes after several years after infection in the absence of treatment. Manifested by severe damage to the nervous system, musculoskeletal system, internal organs. Tertiary syphilis is fatal.
Shankroid ( chancroid)
Shankroid ( soft chancre, third venereal disease, venereal ulcer) is an acute sexually transmitted disease, manifested by multiple painful ulcers in the genital area and inflammation of the lymph nodes. The disease occurs mainly in Africa, East Asia, South and Central America. In other countries, it is an imported infection. Infection occurs through oral, anal and vaginal sex. With a single unprotected sexual contact with a sick chancroid, infection occurs in 50% of cases. The incubation period is from 2 to 10 days. at the site of introduction of the infectious agent in the genital area, anus, less often on the oral mucosa) a small red spot appears, which turns into a vesicle with purulent contents. After opening the vesicle, a painful ulcer with soft, uneven edges forms.
Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is a classic sexually transmitted disease that affects genitourinary system human, rectum, pharynx. Infection occurs through sexual contact with a patient with gonorrhea ( in 50% of cases with a single unprotected sexual contact). The incubation period for men is from 2 to 5 days, for women - from 5 to 10 days. The main symptoms of gonorrhea are pain when urinating, yellowish-white discharge from the urethra in men, and vaginal discharge in women. Women may also experience lower abdominal pain and intermenstrual bleeding. With gonococcal proctitis ( inflammation of the rectal mucosa) the patient may be disturbed by itching, pain and discharge from the rectum. With gonococcal pharyngitis ( pharyngeal lesion) may occur pain in the throat.
Donovanose ( inguinal granuloma, granuloma venereum)
Donovanosis refers to the classic sexually transmitted diseases and is characterized by the appearance of ulcers in the genital area with a chronic course. Found in countries with warm climates. The main route of infection is sexual contact. The risk of infection through unprotected sex varies from 1% to 50%. The incubation period averages 1 month. Ulcers can be located in the genital area, anus, less often in the oral cavity. Initially, a small red lump appears, which ulcerates with the formation of a small painless ulcer with scanty, gray-purulent, offensive discharge. Donovanosis can manifest as a single ulcer or multiple widespread ulcers with mechanical transmission of the infection.
Venereal lymphogranuloma ( inguinal lymphogranulomatosis)
Venereal lymphogranuloma is a classic venereal disease. The causative agent is Chlamydia trachomatis, as in the case of urogenital chlamydia, but other serological variants ( another antigenic structure). It is more common in tropical countries. The route of infection is sexual contact. The incubation period is from 1 to 3 weeks. Primary lesion appears as a chancre sores) on foreskin penis, penile frenulum, labia, cervix, vaginal wall, perineum.
After 2-3 weeks, the main symptom of the disease appears - regional inguinal lymphadenitis ( inflammation of the lymph nodes) . Over time, the lymph nodes become soldered to each other with the formation of dense tuberosity. The process can be unilateral or bilateral.
Urogenital chlamydia
Chlamydia is one of the "new" sexually transmitted diseases. When infected with chlamydia, the human genitourinary system is affected. Infection occurs during unprotected vaginal, anal sex ( infection in 50% of cases with a single contact). Oral sex is extremely rare. The contact-household and vertical route of infection is also unlikely ( from mother to child while passing through birth canal
). The incubation period is from 1 to 3 weeks. In urogenital chlamydia, the urethra is predominantly affected ( urethra), vagina, cervix, rectum, eyes, pharynx ( rarely). In men, 10% of cases are asymptomatic. In other cases, scanty mucopurulent discharge from the urethra, itching and burning in the urethra, painful urination appear. In women, the infection occurs without symptoms in 75% of cases. Symptoms of chlamydia in women are mucopurulent discharge from the vagina, pain when urinating, bleeding between periods, drawing pains lower abdomen.
Urogenital trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is one of the most common urogenital infections in women. The causative agent of the infection is Trichomonas vaginalis. The main route of transmission is unprotected vaginal sex. Also possible household way transmission ( through wet towels, washcloths), but the risk of infection through other types of sexual contact is extremely unlikely. incubation period ( the period from the moment of infection to the onset of the first symptoms) is from 7 to 28 days. In women, the disease is manifested by the presence yellow discharge from the vagina with an unpleasant odor, itching and redness of the genitals, pain during urination and sexual intercourse.
In men, the clinic is less pronounced and is manifested by discharge from the urethra and painful urination.
Genital herpes
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease that affects the genital area. There are more than 40 million patients with genital herpes in the world. The causative agent of the disease is the herpes virus type 2, but in 20 - 30% of cases, infection with the herpes virus type 1 is possible ( causing a "cold" on the lips). Infection occurs through unprotected sexual contact of any form. The most contagious are sexual partners with severe symptoms, but partners with an asymptomatic course of the disease are no less dangerous. The incubation period is from 2 to 10 days. There are primary genital herpes and recurrent ( periodically escalating). Primary genital herpes appears about 5 days after infection. Symptoms of herpes are burning, pain, itching, swelling in the affected area, as well as fever, malaise. After a few days, grouped vesicles with transparent contents appear in the affected area. The itching is greatly increased. In men, rashes can be located on the head, on the skin and foreskin of the penis. In women in the clitoris, large and small labia.
How is an appointment with a venereologist?
An appointment with a venereologist takes place in a specially equipped room. The study usually consists of two rooms or parts. The first room is the workplace of a specialist, designed for storage medical documents, filling out a medical history, talking with a patient. The second room is an examination room where the doctor conducts visual inspection patient and sampling of biological material for further laboratory testing. The area of the room varies depending on the placement of the doctor's workplace, furniture and medical equipment. For finishing the floor and walls, materials are used that can be processed disinfectants. In the office there is a bactericidal lamp for disinfection of the room, hot water, liquid soap and disposable towels. The observation room is equipped with the necessary medical equipment and furniture. A gynecological chair is used to examine patients. There is also a couch in the office, where the external examination of patients is mainly carried out. In some cases, for the comfort of the patient, a screen is used.
An appointment with a venereologist consists of three stages:
- questioning the patient;
- external ( physical) inspection;
- taking biological material for examination.
Patient Interview
A consultation with a venereologist begins with the collection of patient data, that is, an anamnesis. The anamnesis is the history of the patient's life, the history of the present illness, past and chronic pathologies and others. If the patient wishes, the consultation of the venereologist takes place in complete confidentiality. According to the law, he has the right not to provide his passport data, home address, place of work. Instead of a real name, you can use a pseudonym to receive survey results. The patient must be sure of the non-disclosure of the data provided by him, as well as the results of the examination and laboratory tests. It is unacceptable to record on video devices the process of examining a patient or photographing parts of the body without his consent. A consultation with a venereologist is stressful for the patient, as it affects him intimate life. Therefore, the doctor treats the patient kindly, regardless of his lifestyle, sexual orientation, the practice of perverse sexual contact, the number of sexual partners, etc. For psychological comfort, the nature of the questions asked is explained to the patient and a guarantee is given for non-disclosure of medical secrets. Patients feel more comfortable if they are of the same sex with the doctor.
The doctor begins the interview with the reason for the patient's visit. He asks in detail about all complaints - the localization and severity of pain or itching, the period of appearance of the first symptoms, the nature of discharge from the genital organs, the presence of a rash or ulceration in the genital area, etc.
The main questions that a venereologist can ask are:
- What methods of contraception does the patient use?
- How many sexual partners does the patient have, what gender?
- What types of sexual contact does the patient practice ( anal, oral, vaginal sex)?
- What method of protection does the patient use, does he use condoms?
- Does the patient practice casual sex?
- Has the patient been examined for sexually transmitted infections before?
- Has the patient been sexually abused?
Physical ( objective) inspection
After talking with the patient, the doctor proceeds to an external examination. The venereologist will explain what studies he will conduct, that they will help to identify how the procedure itself goes and how unpleasant or painful it is. This will help relieve stress in the patient and tune in to cooperation with the doctor. External examination is a set of diagnostic procedures performed by a doctor in order to make a diagnosis using special medical equipment.
For external examination, the specialist uses techniques such as:
- inspection - visual assessment of the condition of the external genitalia, oral cavity, skin;
- palpation - method of feeling the body in order to assess the properties of organs or tissues ( shape, mobility, soreness, texture, etc.);
- percussion - tapping technique certain parts the patient's body and the evaluation of emerging sounds.
- external genital organs;
- internal genital organs of a woman using a gynecological mirror;
- skin;
- visible mucous membranes ( anogenital region, oral cavity and pharynx, conjunctiva);
- scalp;
- lymph nodes.
Taking biological material for examination
The basis for the diagnosis of venereology is a laboratory study of biological material. Biological material is cells, various biological fluids ( genital discharge, semen), scrapings that are taken directly from the patient using various techniques for the purpose of further laboratory research to identify the causative agent of infection. To take biological material for research, special spatulas, spoons, endobranchs and others are used.
Instruments intended for examination and sampling of biological material must be disposable. Otherwise, they must be carefully processed and kept in an ultraviolet sterilizer until they are used.
Where does a venereologist take? How to get an appointment with a venereologist?
A venereologist conducts an appointment at a dermatovenerological dispensary. Due to the high prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases in the district and regional polyclinics the presence of a venereologist's office also justifies itself. Private clinics also provide a wide range of services in the field of venereology. The patient himself can choose the doctor and clinic where he will be examined. The appointment is strictly confidential and the patient can count on non-disclosure of personal information. If desired, the consultation is conducted anonymously. That is, the patient reports to the doctor only those data that relate to his disease. The results of tests and examinations are reported and transferred personally to the patient. If necessary, the physician may consult with another physician on behalf of the patient. For the disclosure of medical secrets, the doctor and the clinic bear disciplinary, administrative or criminal liability.
In order to get an appointment with a venereologist at a state clinic, you must contact your local doctor. After the initial examination and familiarization with the complaints, the district doctor, if indicated, will give a referral for a consultation with a urologist ( for men) and to the gynecologist ( for women). Further, the urologist or gynecologist will refer the patient for a consultation with a venereologist if a sexually transmitted disease is suspected. If the patient wishes to be examined and treated by a venereologist in private clinic, then he can make an appointment on his own. In public clinics, consultation and examination by a venereologist are free of charge.
What symptoms are most often referred to a venereologist?
If symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases appear, you should immediately seek help from a venereologist. It must be remembered that these pathologies can lead to dangerous complications ( up to lethal outcome
), and in the absence of treatment, go into a chronic form. Not everyone has the same symptoms. In some patients, the disease occurs with pronounced symptoms, while in others there are no symptoms at all. Therefore, after unprotected intercourse ( with a casual partner or with a partner with a burdened venereal anamnesis) is extremely important to pass preventive examination at a venereologist, even if there are no manifestations of the disease. The main complaints when contacting a venereologist
| Symptom | Origin mechanism | Diagnostics | Possible disease |
| General symptoms for men and women | |||
| Burning and/or pain during urination frequent urges to urinate | Pathogenic microorganisms cause inflammation of the urogenital system. The inflammatory process leads to painful and frequent urination. |
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| Genital rash, ulceration, vesicles | At the site of the introduction of a pathogenic pathogen, a dense nodule is formed inflammatory nature. It is formed as a result of the accumulation of cellular infiltrate in the dermis ( middle layer of skin) or subcutaneous tissue. Some time later, during the decay of the tissue of the primary formation ( tubercle, nodule) a skin defect is formed, the depth of which reaches the level of the dermis, fascia, muscles. This is observed with syphilis, chancre, inguinal lymphogranulomatosis of others. In genital herpes, vesicles form ( bubbles), as a result of detachment of the epidermis ( outer layer of skin). The bubbles are filled with cloudy contents and merge into small groups. |
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| Discharge from the genitals | Discharge from the genital organs is a protective response of the body to damage to the mucous membrane of the urethra or vagina by pathogenic microorganisms. Allocations are exudate - a liquid released from cells, tissues, vessels due to an increase in their permeability during inflammatory processes. The secretions contain leukocytes ( white blood cells), pathogenic microorganisms, epithelial cells, etc. |
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| A sore throat | When a pathogen enters the oral cavity, inflammation occurs in the oropharynx ( pharyngitis), which is accompanied by swelling and pain. |
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| Pain in the rectum, rectal discharge | Pain in the rectum with the presence of pathological secretions occurs during the inflammatory process and exudation ( outlet) fluid from tissues and vessels. |
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| Enlargement and tenderness of the lymph nodes | Lymph nodes are a biological barrier. When pathogenic microorganisms enter lymphatic vessels in the lymph nodes, the latter begin to actively fight the infection, while increasing in size. If it was not possible to overcome the infection, an inflammatory process occurs in the lymph nodes. This is accompanied by their compaction and soreness. |
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| Burning and itching in the genital area | Sexually transmitted infections provoke a reaction of the human immune system. In this case, an inflammatory process develops with the release of inflammatory mediators ( biologically active substances ). One of the mediators of inflammation is histamine, which, by irritating nerve endings causes itching and burning. |
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| Symptoms in men | |||
| blood in semen
(hemospermia), pain in the testicles | In venereal diseases, as a result of inflammatory processes, fluid exudation, damage to the mucous membranes, blood in the semen, pain in the testicles, erectile dysfunction and reproductive function men. |
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| Symptoms in women | |||
| Pain in the lower abdomen | Pain in the lower abdomen occurs when the ovaries are inflamed ( adnexitis), uterine mucosa ( endometritis), cervical canal ( cervicitis), vaginal mucosa ( vaginitis). |
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| Pain during intercourse
(dyspareunia) | Pain during intercourse occurs due to inflammatory processes of the pelvic organs caused by the body's immune response to the invasion of infectious agents. Mechanical irritation during sexual intercourse of inflamed tissues leads to painful sensations. |
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| Bleeding between periods | The appearance of bleeding between periods is associated with inflammatory processes internal genital organs of a woman, accompanied by a violation of the integrity of the mucous membranes of the vagina or endometrium ( inner layer of the uterus). |
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| Unusual vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor | When infected with an STI, women experience unusual discharge, which can be yellow, green with an unpleasant characteristic odor. They arise as a result of inflammation, exudation of fluid, changes in the microflora of the vagina and contain leukocytes, epithelial cells, pathogenic microorganisms. |
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When should you contact a venereologist?
The patient is not always able to independently determine the need for a consultation with a venereologist. Therefore, if any symptoms or complaints appear, you should contact your local doctor, who, if necessary, will refer you to a specialist for a consultation. People from the risk group can independently contact a venereologist, especially if they are registered. They must be periodically medical control- semiannually.
The risk group includes people:
- providing sexual services;
- subjected to sexual violence;
- not using protection methods;
- practicing casual sex, perverted sex, homosexual and bisexual relationships;
- having multiple sexual partners;
- With past infections sexually transmitted.
Women need to contact a venereologist if:
- diagnosis of STDs in a sexual partner ( even if the woman has no symptoms);
- discoloration of the mucous membranes of the external genital organs ( labia minora, labia majora, clitoris);
- enlargement and pain inguinal lymph nodes;
- unusual discharge from the vagina with an unpleasant odor;
- severe itching and burning in the genital area;
- painful urination, sexual intercourse;
- the presence of a rash, sores and other lesions in the genital area;
- menstrual disorders ( in combination with other symptoms described above).
- the presence of an STD in a sexual partner ( even in the absence of symptoms);
- practice of unprotected intercourse especially promiscuity);
- change in the color of the skin and mucous membranes of the genital organs;
- rash, vesicles ( bubbles), ulceration in the genital area;
- the appearance of itching in the penis;
- pain and burning during urination;
- the appearance of discharge from the urethra with an unpleasant odor;
- enlargement and soreness of the lymph nodes in the groin;
- erectile dysfunction and decreased libido ( especially if you have any of the other symptoms listed above.).
What research does a venereologist conduct?
The diagnosis cannot be established only on the basis of these complaints and an external examination of the patient, since many diseases can have similar symptoms. Therefore, additional instrumental and laboratory studies are usually carried out. The doctor uses several types of research, which increases the accuracy of diagnosis. A venereologist must have practical skills in gynecological and urological examination. The basis for the diagnosis of sexually transmitted infections is laboratory analysis. Only laboratory examination allows you to identify the causative agent of infection and make the correct diagnosis. For laboratory research, the doctor must have the technique of taking biological material, know exactly the required volume, the rules for transporting to the laboratory, and the shelf life. Failure to comply with these conditions can lead to the death of pathogenic ( malicious) microorganisms and false negative results. Often in the laboratory, ready-made commercial kits are used to collect and transport the test material.
Research methods for a venereal patient may differ in different medical centers and depend on the technical equipment of the venereologist's office and laboratory.
Research conducted by a venereologist
| Study | What diseases does | The essence of the method |
| Research conducted at the appointment with a venereologist | ||
| Palpation
(feeling) |
| Palpation is the palpation of the lymph nodes, genitals ( scrotum), skin in order to detect the presence of seals, soreness of rashes or lymph nodes, skin elasticity, adhesive processes(adhesions), etc. |
| Gynecological examination |
| The examination of the patient is carried out in a special chair using a gynecological mirror. At the same time, it is estimated appearance cervix and vaginal walls, as well as the presence and nature of discharge. |
| Colposcopy |
| Inspection of the cervix, the walls of the vagina with the help of a special device - a colposcope. A colposcope is an optical instrument with illumination that allows you to examine tissue under magnification. |
| ureteroscopy |
| Ureteroscopy is a method of examining the mucous membrane of the urethra using a special optical device - a ureteroscope. |
| Pap smear from the urethra |
| Before the study, the patient should not urinate for 3 to 4 hours, and more than 12 hours should not use hygiene products. Before taking a smear, the area of the external opening of the urethra is treated with a sterile gauze swab. Then a gauze swab moistened with sterile distilled water to reduce discomfort, injected into the lumen of the urethra on a flexible disposable rod. In men, to a depth of up to 3 - 4 cm, in women, up to 1 - 1.5 cm. Carefully, without rotating, the swab is removed and rolled over a glass slide or placed in a nutrient medium and transferred to the laboratory. |
| Pap smear
(cervical canal, which connects the vagina and uterine cavity) |
| A smear from the cervical canal is carried out in a gynecological chair after inserting a mirror into the vagina. A special brush or gauze swab is inserted into the cervical canal to a depth of 2 cm and rotated several times. Then, with this brush or gauze swab, pass over a glass slide ( for microscopic or immunofluorescent examination) or placed on a nutrient or transport medium. |
| Vaginal swab |
| A smear from the vagina is obtained in the same way as from the cervical canal. To take a sample, use a gauze swab, a bacteriological loop or a Volkmann spoon. The tool is carried out several times with rotational movements along the walls of the vagina. The material is placed on a glass slide or on a nutrient / transport medium, depending on the research method. |
| Oropharyngeal swab |
| The test material is obtained from rear wall pharynx or tonsils. In newborns, the biomaterial is obtained from the nasopharynx. The doctor presses the tongue with a spatula to better view and runs a sterile cotton swab over the mucous membrane of the throat and tonsils. The resulting biomaterial is transferred to a glass slide or nutrient/transport medium. |
| rectal smear |
| A smear from the rectum is obtained "blindly", simply by introducing a cotton swab into the intestinal lumen, or using a special device - an anoscope. The tampon is inserted to a depth of 2 - 4 centimeters, pressing on the intestinal wall to avoid contamination. stool. If this cannot be avoided, the procedure is repeated. |
| Vesicle smear
(formations on the skin in the form of a bubble with contents) |
| To obtain the test material, the vesicle is opened with a sterile needle, and then the contents are collected with a cotton swab and transferred to a nutrient/transport medium. |
| Smear from ulcers |
| To obtain biomaterial, erosive-ulcerative elements are treated saline and dry up. Ulcers are treated with a gauze swab until blood and clear exudate are obtained. This often requires pressure on the bottom of the ulcer, which can cause pain to the patient. The biomaterial is collected using a capillary, a syringe with a thin needle, gauze swab and placed on a glass slide or nutrient/transport medium. The test material should not contain pus. |
| Laboratory research | ||
| microscopic examination |
| For microscopic examination use a smear from the urethra, vagina, cervical canal, rectum, oropharynx. The studied biomaterial is studied under a microscope at various magnifications. To improve visualization, the material can be painted with special paints ( Gram stain, Romanovsky stain). The patient receives the results of this study within 1 day. |
| Dark field microscopy |
| Dark field microscopy is used when the pathogen ( pathogen) is not stained with special dyes. To identify the pathogen, the obtained biomaterial is immediately examined under a dark-field microscope. Its peculiarity lies in the special illumination of the sample under study. |
| Cultural study
(bacteriological culture) |
| The resulting biomaterial from the urethra, vagina, cervical canal, oropharynx, rectum is sown on a special nutrient medium. A few days later on culture medium pathogenic microorganisms begin to multiply, which are then identified by their characteristic growth properties, color, etc. |
| Immunofluorescence reaction
(REEF) |
| The immunofluorescence reaction is serological methods, that is, the study of antigens and antibodies. To obtain a biomaterial, a smear from the vagina, cervical canal, urethra, etc. is used. The essence of the method is to identify antigens ( alien, potentially hazardous substances or microorganisms for humans) after treatment of the biomaterial with antigen-specific antibodies ( elements of the immune system). Antibodies are processed with fluorochrome. In the presence of antigens in the biomaterial, antibodies bind to them and cause a glow, which is detected when examined under a fluorescent microscope. |
| Linked immunosorbent assay
(ELISA) |
| ELISA refers to serological studies. The essence of the method is immune response antigen and antibodies developed against it elements of the immune system). The result is evaluated by the appearance or change of enzymatic activity. |
| Molecular biological research
(PCR - polymerase chain reaction) |
| Polymerase chain reaction allows you to identify sections of the DNA of a pathogenic microorganism. This method research is distinguished by high accuracy and the ability to identify the causative agent of the disease long before the onset of the first symptoms, while others laboratory methods will not bring results. For PCR, swabs are taken from the urethra, vagina, rectum, oropharynx, etc. |
How to prepare for a consultation with a venereologist?
In order to obtain reliable results of laboratory tests, it is necessary to follow a number of rules before taking the tests. alcohol intake, fatty foods, usage cosmetics and other factors can skew the results. At the first consultation, a venereologist or other narrow specialist (gynecologist, urologist) must explain to the patient how to prepare for the test.Main general requirements to prepare for the delivery of tests for STDs are:
- exclusion of sexual contacts for several days ( at least 3 days) before research ( including sexual intercourse using a condom);
- stop taking any medications a few days before the examination ( hormonal preparations, vaginal suppositories, ointments and creams to reduce itching and inflammation, and in the case of antibiotics, at least a week);
- abstinence from urination for 3 to 4 hours before taking urogenital swabs ( otherwise, the discharge may be washed away with urine);
- abolition of fatty foods and alcohol 24 hours before the study ( can give false positive results eg syphilis);
- taking tests for genital infections in women in the first days after the end of menstruation, since during this period they are as informative as possible;
- taking tests on an empty stomach ( after 8 - 14 hours of fasting);
- exclusion of taking a bath with the use of cosmetic hygiene products ( intimate soaps, gels) 12 hours before taking smears, it is enough to wash the genitals with warm water.
What methods does the venereologist treat?
Sexually transmitted diseases may have local manifestations in the form of vesicles ( bubbles), ulcerations, and also affect the genitourinary system and other organs and systems. With reduced immunity, these diseases are difficult to treat and often recur ( escalate). That's why A complex approach to the treatment of sexually transmitted infections is much more effective. Treatment of venereal diseases is carried out simultaneously for the patient and all his sexual partners. In the treatment of STDs, the venereologist uses:
- specific treatment - specific treatment is aimed at combating a specific infectious agent through vaccination ( introduction of inactivated antibodies of microorganisms into the body in order to enhance the immune attack of this pathogen);
- antibacterial, antiprotozoal treatment - drugs are selected depending on the sensitivity and type of pathogen;
- local therapy - in the presence of local symptoms, lotions with antibiotics, ointments are used to combat pathogenic microorganisms not only at the systemic level, but also at the local level, which contributes to the rapid healing of sores, vesicles ( bubbles), rash;
- restorative therapy - with reduced immunity, no therapy will be effective, therefore it is extremely important to increase the body's defenses with the help of vitamins, immunomodulators, biological additives and etc.;
- physiotherapy - therapeutic use of physical factors ( magnetic fields, currents, heat, light) promotes general strengthening organism, acceleration of recovery, reduction of inflammatory processes.
Basic treatments for sexually transmitted diseases
| Disease | Basic Treatments | Mechanism therapeutic action | Duration of treatment | |
| Syphilis | Antibiotic therapy
:
| Penicillins and cephalosporins inhibit education structural elements cell wall of the causative agent of syphilis - pale treponema. As a result, the cell walls are destroyed, deformed, its division is disturbed, and the pathogen dies. Tetracyclines inhibit the synthesis of intracellular proteins. | The duration of the course of treatment varies from the stage and severity of the disease. Approximate course treatment with penicillins averages 10 days, tetracyclines - 15 days, cephalosporins - 10 days. | |
Local treatment:
| Lotions with drugs act locally in the area of syphilides, ulcerative chancres. Local treatment is aimed at accelerating the healing and scarring of ulcers, reducing itching and swelling. As monotherapy ( the only treatment) has no effect. | The duration of treatment is prescribed individually until the moment of complete scarring of syphilides. | ||
pyrotherapy(artificially induced increase in body temperature):
| Pyrotherapy leads to an increase in body temperature. At the same time, there is an increase in the specific and nonspecific immunity, the production of cells and mediators involved in maintaining immunity. Moreover, the causative agent of syphilis - pale treponema, has a high thermal sensitivity, that is, the process of its reproduction slows down or the pathogen dies. | Pyrogenal is used 1 time in 2-3 days for a total of 10-15 injections. Prodigiosan is administered intramuscularly 2 times a week up to 4-6 injections in the course of therapy. |
||
Physiotherapy:
| Physiotherapy refers to non-specific methods treatment. The main effect is to improve blood circulation and lymph flow in the affected areas, increase immunity, increase the secretion of glucocorticoids ( steroid hormones produced by the adrenal cortex), which have an anti-inflammatory, tonic, stimulating effect on the body. | Inductothermy - 10 - 20 minutes, course - 8 - 10 sessions, held every other day. Magnetotherapy - 15 - 30 minutes daily for 16 to 25 days. Laser therapy - 3 minutes each group of lymph nodes, 15 sessions. microwave therapy- 10 - 15 minutes, course - 10 - 12 procedures. |
||
Restorative therapy:
| Vitamins help speed up chemical processes in the body, cell renewal, increased immunity. Immunomodulators and biogenic stimulants help to strengthen the body's defenses. | The duration of the course of treatment depends on the stage of syphilis, the severity of symptoms, general condition patient and can last from one to several months. After a break in treatment, the course of restorative therapy can be repeated. | ||
| chancroid
(chancroid) | Antibiotic therapy:
| Antibiotics destroy the cell wall of the microorganism, interfere with the synthesis of proteins and DNA. This leads to the death of the chancroid pathogen. | Average duration course of treatment - 10 days. | |
Local Therapy:
| Local therapy relieves swelling and inflammation, has a bactericidal effect ( causing the death of pathogenic microorganisms), promotes healing of ulcers. | Treatment is carried out until the ulcer heals, on average at least 7 days. | ||
Vitamin therapy:
| Vitamins contribute to the overall strengthening of the body, increase immunity, accelerate healing and scarring of ulcers. | The duration of treatment is from 2 weeks to several months. | ||
| Gonorrhea | Antibiotic therapy:
| Cephalosporins interfere with bacterial cell synthesis. Antibiotics of the fluoroquinolone series disrupt the processes of DNA synthesis in the cell of the causative agent of gonorrhea, which leads to the death of the pathogen. Macrolides and tetracyclines inhibit the synthesis of proteins in the microbial cell, causing its death. | The duration of the course of treatment is strictly individual and depends on the severity of symptoms, complications, and the presence of concomitant sexually transmitted diseases. In acute uncomplicated form of gonorrhea - 10 - 12 days, in chronic course - 4 - 5 weeks. | Local therapy is used in the initial acute stage of the disease for 3 to 6 days. |
Specific immunotherapy:
| The use of gonococcal vaccine is carried out in order to increase specific protection body from the infectious agent. | Vaccination is carried out every 2-3 days for 20 days ( 6 - 8 vaccines). | ||
Non-specific immunotherapy:
| Nonspecific immunotherapy is aimed at strengthening the body's defenses, accelerating reparative processes, and accelerating recovery. | Duration of nonspecific immunotherapy varies from several weeks to several months. | ||
| Donovanose
(inguinal granuloma, granuloma venereum) | Antibiotic therapy:
| The mechanism of action is to disrupt the structure of the cell and the life processes of the causative agent of donovanosis. | The duration of treatment is at least 2 weeks until the ulcers are completely healed. | |
| Local therapy (antibiotics in the form of powders, lotions in the ulcer area). | The use of antibiotics in the form of powders and lotions contributes to the fight against pathogens at the local level. | |||
| Venereal lymphogranulomatosis
(inguinal lymphogranulomatosis) | Antibiotic therapy:
| Antibiotics destroy the cell wall and the synthesis of substances necessary for normal life microorganism. | Treatment is carried out for 3 weeks. | |
| Immunotherapy, vitamin therapy and local therapy in complex treatment contribute to strengthening the immune system, healing of erosions and ulcers. | The duration of treatment is a month or more. | ||
| Chlamydia | Antibiotic therapy:
| Antibacterial drugs contribute to the disruption of the cell structure of the microorganism, the disruption of DNA synthesis. | The duration of the course of treatment is 1 - 2 weeks. | |
| Trichomoniasis | Antiprotozoal drugs(metronidazole, ornidazole). | Antiprotozoal drugs inhibit ( suppress) synthesis of DNA of microorganisms, thereby causing their death. | The course of treatment is 10 days. | |
| Genital herpes | Antiviral drugs(acyclovir, valaciclovir). | Antiviral drugs disrupt the normal synthesis of virus DNA, which leads to an obstacle to the emergence of new generations. | The duration of treatment is from 5 to 10 days. | |
Specific immunization:
| Hyperimmune gamma globulin is a specific protein that acts specifically against the herpes virus. During vaccination, inactivated antigens of the herpes virus are introduced into the human body, thereby enhancing the antiviral activity of the immune system. | Hyperimmune gamma globulin is administered in the amount of 3-5 injections with an interval of 1 day. The vaccination course is 1 injection per week for 5 weeks. | ||
| Immunomodulators(interferon). | Interferons have a pronounced antiviral effect, strengthening the immune system and preventing relapse ( re-aggravation) diseases. | The duration of treatment with immunomodulators is selected individually - from several weeks to several months. | ||
| Local therapy(ointments - acyclovir, herpferon). | Application antiviral drugs in the form of ointments contributes to the disruption of viral replication at the local level. | Duration local therapy- up to 10 days. |
During the treatment period, the patient is under medical supervision. Additional tests are needed to assess the effectiveness of treatment ( general blood test, microflora smear). The duration of therapy is strictly individual and depends on the degree and severity of the disease, as well as on the effectiveness of the treatment. After the end of the course of therapy, the patient for six months or more ( in case of syphilis) is registered with a venereologist and periodically takes laboratory tests to confirm recovery and prevent relapse ( re-exacerbation) disease.
Is a venereologist and a dermatovenereologist the same specialist?
After graduation medical university the future doctor is undergoing an internship ( postgraduate professional education
) in the specialty of dermatovenereology. This specialty includes two sections of medicine - dermatology and venereology. Dermatology is a field of medicine that studies the causes and clinic of diseases of the skin and its appendages ( hair, nails), methods of their treatment and prevention. Venereology is a field of medicine that studies the mechanism of transmission, clinic, treatment and prevention of sexually transmitted infections. Upon completion of the internship, the doctor receives a license as a dermatovenereologist. In the future, a specialist may be engaged in the diagnosis and treatment of skin and sexually transmitted diseases, or specialize in only one area - dermatology or venereology.
In the field of dermatology, a doctor can get an even narrower specialization:
- dermatologist-trichologist – a doctor involved in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases of the hair and scalp;
- dermatologist-surgeon – a doctor specializing in the removal of skin defects ( scars, stretch marks, post-acne, acne, warts, age spots );
- dermatologist-cosmetologist – specialist in skin, nail, hair care, as well as performing various cosmetic procedures skin rejuvenation, lip augmentation, permanent tattooing;
- dermatologist-oncologist – a doctor specializing in the field of skin cancer, their diagnosis, treatment and prevention.
- The main advantage that we are proud of is our doctors! Graduated specialists With great experience scientific and practical work. Moscow venereologists of the first and highest category.
- Guarantee of 100% cure of diseases (prescribed in the contract for treatment).
- Responsibility for the health of the patient.
- Accurate analyzes for short term, for example: express analyzes in 10 minutes; PCR diagnostics in 24 hours.
- Painless sampling by a venereologist.
- The latest methods for diagnosing chronic infections, when standard tests are powerless to detect the disease (chlamydia, syphilis, mycoplasmosis, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, etc.).
- Single treatment regimens.
- Most affordable prices on medical services in Moscow.
Before consulting a venereologist, you must:
Men
- abstinence from urination for 3-4 hours;
Women
- do not perform deep washing of the vagina;
- do not take any drugs;
- do not apply medications to skin rashes
Why is it necessary to be treated anonymously under the supervision of a venereologist, and not to self-medicate on the Internet?
At first glance, the treatment of genital infections is not difficult, but it is not! The appointment of treatment by a venereologist is made on the basis of anamnesis, laboratory tests, patient weight, comorbidities, allergic reactions and so on. It is very important to know which antibiotic group should be used, in what concentration, and also what is the duration of taking the antibiotic. If an antibacterial drug is used incorrectly, the infection is not cured to the end and passes into a chronic or persistent form, which leads to the development of complications.
Do not self-medicate. Don't skimp on your health. Trust the professionals. Make an appointment with a venereologist.
