This month features an interview with Paul Nyirjesy, M.D., professor in the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology and a leading expert in sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). During the podcast interview, Nyirjesy discusses the rates, symptoms, and treatments of various STDs, and why it’s so important for people to get tested.

“One of the worrisome trends is that the rates are going in the wrong direction for both Chlamydia and Gonorrhea, meaning they’re going up instead of down,” said Nyirjesy. “In fact, it’s now recommended that women under the age of 25 undergo annual screening for both of those infections.”

Nyirjsey also talks about the human papillomavirus (HPV), as well as a new HPV vaccine. HPV is the most common STD and is the leading cause of cervical cancer.

“For many STDs, if you catch them early, there shouldn’t be any long term problem,” said Nyirjesy. “But if you catch them late, they can lead to complications like pelvic infections, infertility, and ectopic pregnancy over the longer term.” 

Listen to the Drexel Medcast™ .