An elderly man consulted for swelling in both groins, which was increasing. He denied any other problem and was even reluctant to be examined. But on physical examination, he had a sexually transmitted disease with ulcers and sores around his private parts. 

STDs are transmitted and acquired by sexual contact. Depending on the type of sex act lesions can be found on moist genital areas, anus or even oral cavity. Many of these diseases such as syphilis, chlamydia, etc, become  chronic. 

The STD is of concern not only for the immediate suffering but due to long term sequel as well. Both genders can suffer from chronic lower abdominal pain, painful urination or discharge. They can develop sterility because of blocking of tubes, swelling of testes, chronic pelvic infections. Women in addition carry risk of extra uterine pregnancy, abortions and intrauterine death. Worse complication is that the baby in the womb can get infected by microbes passing through the placenta or through breast milk after birth. Chronic serious infections like HIV. Hepatitis B and C also are acquired through unprotected sex.

Ignorance among people regarding these diseases is the lead reason for their prevalence. Some people avoid seeking treatment until they are very sick. 

  Most of the affected people do not realise that treatment cures the infection but does not prevent reinfection. The partners of the sexual activity need to  be treated simultaneously to avoid a vicious cycle where, in spite of treatment, a person keeps on getting infected and infecting others.

As preventive measures, people need to be educated about hazards associated with casual sex. If you must, use a condom