Infections Plaguing Men and Women in Africa

2020-11-30

The rate of Infections and sexually transmitted infections are on the increase among youth, especially sexually active people. With some infections, like urinary tract infection (UTI) posing as a threat to the health of the carrier. After a series of treatments, the infections seem to be resistant to the antibiotics prescribed. During treatment, they feel relieved of any pain or symptoms, few days or a week after treatment, the symptoms continue. Because of the difficulty encountered during treatment, many have opted for herbal or traditional medicine to cure the infection. Some got healed, while the rest didn’t but rather deteriorated their health.

Here are significant infections plaguing “mostly” but not only sexually active people in Africa.

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): UTI is an infection affecting the urethra, bladder, kidneys, and ureters. Women have a higher risk of being infected due to the anatomical structure. UTI is as a result of gram-negative bacteria known as Escherichia coli, present in bladder, and urethra. The difficulty in curing this infection is becoming alarming and distressing. This bacterium has a high replicating time of about 15- 60 minutes, making it tough to get rid of it.

Indiscriminate use of antibiotics and involving one’s sexual partner for treatment, poor hygiene, and use of some contraceptives are other challenges faced in getting it treated at once. Symptoms include;

  • Frequent visit to the toilet, even after just peeing.
  • Tired feeling.
  • Feeling pain or burning sensation when urinating.
  • Lower back pain or abdominal pain.
  • Cloudy or smelly urine.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): None sexually transmitted PID caused by staphylococcus aureus is an increasing infection affecting women. It occurs when bacteria move to sterile organs like uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. Poor abortion management, sex with unfaithful or multiple partners are responsible for the infection. The rate at which the bacterium is resistant to antibiotics is alarming. Women have complained about years of ineffective treatment, and have concluded that it is their fault for not getting cured. They give up on drugs and take herbs that are not certified or resolve to monthly or everyday use of antibiotics to ease their pain. While some may be asymptomatic, significant symptoms include;

  • Mild, chronic pelvic or abdominal pain
  • Vaginal discharge
  • Unpleasant odour
  • Spotting or bleeding before menstruation, and after having sex
  • Painful sex
  • Fever
  • Painful urination

Yeast Infection: Vaginal yeast infection is a fungal infection caused by Candida albicans. Factors like stress, low immune system, poor hygiene practice, indiscriminate use of antibiotics, pregnancy can be responsible. It’s not only gotten through sexually transmitted infection. Still, there are chances of having the infection when you have sex consistently. Treatment is with the use of antifungal creams and drugs; the rate of re-infection in some people is becoming a concern. Some symptoms include;

  • White and cottage-like discharge with no offensive smell
  • Painful sex
  • Burning sensation when urinating
  • Itching in the vagina area
  • Red and inflamed vulva

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI): STIs with the most common, which are gonorrhoea, chlamydia, syphilis. Different bacteria cause STIs. They are commonly contracted through sexual encounter but can be acquired through other means such as unscreened blood transfusion, and other blood products. It can be asymptomatic for an extended period. While it is curable, awareness, safe sex practices, correct and consistent use of antibiotics is advisable. Symptoms include;

  • Discharge, or burning sensation in men
  • Abdominal pain
  • Vaginal discharge
  • Urethral discharge
  • Genital sores

The alarming rate of resistance among these bacteria, it is essential for people to take antibiotics when needed and as prescribed by a doctor. You must involve your sexual partner (s) when you have any of the infections.

 Due to high cases of antibiotics resistance; Scientists and verified trado-healers should work towards solving, and producing broad-spectrum antibiotics that can effectively treat and cure infections.