Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD’s)

The term Sexually Transmitted Diseases, or STDs, describes any infection that is transmitted to the body via sexual contact, whether through a virus, bacteria, or parasite. Some of these infections stay within the genital or reproductive tract, as in trichamonas (“trick”), while others may cause infections within the abdominal cavity, as in pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Still others create “body-wide” infections, as in late-stage syphilis or HIV.

Our primary approach to STDs is that of prevention through abstinence, monogamous sexual activity, or the use of condoms. Nevertheless, STDs do occur and knowing how to recognize and treat them is important. Any traveler who suspects exposure may have occurred should, of course, seek examination by a doctor once they get home unless they plan a long stay in Mexico.

As you can see from the preceding table, the spectrum of STDs is broad. Pubic lice is one STD that is reasonably safe to self-treat. Permethrin lotion is available in Mexico without a doctor’s prescription. (See MedTogo’s pharmaceutical guide for medication guidelines.)