The 11 most common STIs in Germany
You've probably heard of chlamydia before, but do you know what trichomoniasis is? Here you will find the eleven most relevant sexually transmitted diseases (STI) in Germany:
1. Chlamydia infection
Chlamydia trachomatis is the most frequently reported STI in Germany. It can lead to infections of the genitals, urinary tract and eyes.
2. Genital warts (condylomata acuminata)
These are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and manifest as genital warts.
3. Genital herpes (genital herpes)
This is an infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) that causes painful sores in the genital area.
4. Gonoorhoea (clap)
Neisseria gonorrhoeae infection can cause inflammation of the genitals, urinary tract, and other areas.
5. Syphilis
This bacterial infection is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum and can progress to different stages if left untreated.
6. Trichomoniasis
Infection with the protozoan Trichomonas vaginalis can cause vaginitis in women and urethritis in men.
7. Hepatitis B
A viral disease affecting the hepatitis B virus (HBV) that can cause liver damage. It is transmitted sexually, through the exchange of bodily fluids.
8. Hepatitis C
Another viral disease affecting the hepatitis C virus (HCV) that can lead to liver damage. Although sexual transmission is possible, hepatitis C is primarily transmitted through the exchange of infected blood.
9. Mycoplasma genitalium
The bacterium Mycoplasma genitalium affects the mucous membranes of the genital area and the urethra equally in men and women. As with gonorrhea or chlaymydia, inflammation of the cervix, urethra and abdomen can result.
10. Mycoplasma hominis
The bacterium Mycoplasma hominis is found in the human urogenital tract and intestinal flora and does not normally cause any damage. However, under certain conditions, the bacterium can trigger urinary tract diseases, inflammation of the prostate or the renal pelvis.
11. Ureaplasma uralyticum and Ureaplasma parvum
The bacteria Ureaplasma uralyticum and Ureaplasma parvum can colonize the lower genital tract in women. At birth, they can often be transmitted from mother to child; here they are the cause of pneumonia or infections of the central nervous system. Men can get a rampant infection that starts in the urethra, then leads to a bladder infection and can then spread to the prostate, testicles, and kidneys.
It's wise to get regular STI screening and learn about safe sex and protective measures to minimize the risk of infection.
Testing for an STI can protect you and your loved ones from infection and complications. Check out our CoviMedical Home Tests below and learn how you can test yourself for chlamydia and other sexually transmitted diseases easily, safely and discreetly.
The eleven most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Germany may vary over time as the prevalence of certain infections may change. The data used for this text is based on the information available up to the year 2021.
