Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are a group of infections that are transmitted from person to person primarily through sexual contact. This group includes dozens of bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections, the prevalence of which is increasing worldwide every year.
According to the World Health Organization, more than one million new cases are recorded every day.
The most important thing to know about STIs is their silent nature. Many infections remain asymptomatic for a long time. A person may believe they are healthy while actually being both a carrier of the infection and a source of transmission. Therefore, the timely detection of STIs should not rely solely on the presence or absence of symptoms.
A common misconception is that these infections affect only certain groups of people. STIs do not discriminate based on age, social status, or the duration of a relationship. Sexually transmitted infections can affect young and older people alike, as well as those with temporary partners and those in long-term relationships.
Awareness and regular screening should become an integral part of personal healthcare.
STI Symptoms and Risk Factors
Although some infections are asymptomatic, certain signs require attention. Typical symptoms of STIs include a burning sensation or discomfort during urination, unusual discharge from the genitals, itching in the genital area, sores or rashes, and pain in the pelvic area. Women may also experience bleeding between menstrual periods, while men may experience discomfort in the testicular area.
A serious infection may be hidden behind mild symptoms, while an apparently asymptomatic infection can lead to complications years later.
STI symptoms do not occur only in the genital area. Depending on the type of sexual contact, an infection may also affect the mucous membranes of the throat or rectum, where symptoms are even more likely to go unnoticed. In women, STI symptoms are often less noticeable than in men, which is why the disease may be detected only after complications have developed. Therefore, regular STI screening is particularly important for women. In men, an infection may often manifest as inflammation of the prostate and urethra, which, if left untreated, can progress to a chronic condition.
Unprotected sexual contact, frequent changes of sexual partners, a previous infection, and younger age increase the risk. Having an STI once does not protect against future infection. On the contrary, damaged mucous membranes can make it easier for a new infection to enter the body.
Diagnosis, STI Testing and Screening
Accurate STI diagnosis relies on laboratory testing. STI testing may include blood, urine, and mucosal swab tests, often using the molecular PCR method, which can detect an infection even when symptoms have not yet appeared. The specific STI tests required depend on which infection is suspected. A doctor determines individually which STI tests should be performed for each patient.
It is important to consider the so-called “window period” — the period between infection and the point at which a test is able to detect the infection. If testing is performed too early, the result may be negative even when an infection is present in the body.
At the Karazanashvili Robotic Center, diagnosis is not limited to laboratory testing. When an infection affects the prostate or urinary bladder, or when it is necessary to rule out a more serious pathology, the center also offers high-resolution imaging examinations, including unique prostate cancer screening, micro-ultrasound, and MRI.
This approach is aimed at the timely assessment of the consequences of an infection. STI testing is a routine medical procedure performed in a confidential environment. The earlier the condition is evaluated, the easier it is to provide appropriate treatment. The cost of an STI test depends on the scope of the examination. The urological hub team will provide accurate information based on each individual case.
If you need an experienced urologist, our team is ready to help. A pediatric urologist is also available at our center. If you need a urologist in Batumi or a urologist in Kutaisi, our clinic also actively operates in the regions, with branches in different cities.
Treatment Methods
Most STIs can be treated. Bacterial infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis can be cured with appropriately selected antibiotics. The parasitic infection trichomoniasis is also treatable.
Viral infections such as herpes or human papillomavirus (HPV) cannot be completely eliminated from the body; however, modern medicine can control symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.
Treatment should not be undertaken independently, using a regimen found on the internet or based on advice from an acquaintance. An incorrectly selected or incomplete course of treatment can contribute to antimicrobial resistance and make subsequent treatment more difficult.
An untreated infection in men can lead to prostatitis and infertility, while in women it can cause pelvic inflammatory disease and fertility problems. Certain types of human papillomavirus can lead to cancer years later. When an infection progresses to complications and surgical intervention becomes necessary, the center offers innovative treatment for prostate diseases using robotic surgery. The minimally invasive approach reduces the extent of the intervention and can accelerate recovery.
It should also be noted that when dealing with serious conditions such as bladder cancer, the experience of our team is crucial. One rule, however, remains unchanged: when treating an STI, the partner should also be tested. Otherwise, the treatment may be ineffective.
Why Karazanashvili Robotic Center?
STI diagnosis and treatment is a comprehensive process in which accurate interpretation of results and planning of the next steps require experience. The center’s urologists, oncologists, and surgeons work within one facility, allowing patients to receive comprehensive care without unnecessary referrals or prolonged waiting times.
The center operates five branches: two locations in Tbilisi, as well as branches in Batumi, Kutaisi, and Zugdidi. This means that patients can access experienced specialists not only in the capital but also in other cities.
The center’s experience in complex urological cases deserves particular mention. The largest experience in robotic surgery in the Caucasus region and unique prostate cancer screening reflect a high level of diagnostic expertise that can also help patients identify complications associated with STIs at an early stage.
Prevention and Follow-Up Care
After completing treatment, a follow-up test is important to confirm that the infection has been completely cleared. In some cases, a doctor may recommend repeat testing after a certain period to make sure that the infection has not returned and has been fully eliminated.
Prevention is based on simple but consistent habits: using barrier protection, having an honest conversation with your partner about health, vaccination against human papillomavirus and hepatitis B, and regular STI screening.
Vaccination deserves particular attention. The HPV vaccine is most effective when administered before the start of sexual activity, although vaccination later in life can also provide benefits. It is one of the most important preventive measures for reducing the risk of infection with specific HPV types and the cancers associated with them.
STIs are neither a reason for shame nor rare diseases. They are a health issue just like any other. If you are at risk or notice any symptoms, do not wait for the “right” time.
Unique prostate cancer screening is recommended:
From the age of 50 — for all men.
From the age of 45 — if at least one male family member has been diagnosed with prostate cancer.
For an individual consultation and to schedule an examination, contact us at: 322 23 40 23.
