There are four untreatable STDs: Hepatitis B, herpes, HIV (human immunodeficiency syndrome), and HPV (human papillomavirus). All are caused by viruses. Two of them — hepatitis B and HIV — can also be transmitted by sharing intravenous drugs. Hepatitis B, herpes, and HIV can also be transmitted to an infant during birth.
Hepatitis affects the liver and can lead to liver cancer or cirrhosis (scarring of the liver). Both are fatal. There are three kinds of hepatitis: A, B, and C. All can be passed along through sexual intimacy (not just intercourse), but only Hepatitis B can’t be cured.
Herpes is spread through intimate contact. HSV-2, or genital herpes, manifests as blisters and sores around the rectum and genitals. Another form of herpes, HSV-1, is spread by saliva and often leaves cold sores. It can also cause genital herpes.
HIV is the virus that causes AIDS, which weakens the immune system and leaves a person very susceptible to a variety of illnesses, sexually transmitted through body fluids (semen, vaginal secretions).
HPV is a virus that causes genital warts, cervical cancer, and oral cancer. Both cancers can be fatal.
Guest on the line: Dr Anthony Smith –family physician and medical sexologist.