Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Sexually Transmitted Diseases present a major public healthchallenge. Over 25 diseases can be transmitted through sexualactivity, and effective treatment, especially where long terminfection can lead to further health problems, and in womeninfertility, requires good diagnostic skills and understanding ofthe best treatment methods. This book aims to give a practicalguide to diagnosis and treamtent in a patient-centred framework,with care at the heart of the book. The aim of the Gynecology in Practice Series is to provide aclinical 'in the office' or 'at the bedside' guide to effectivepatient care for gynecologists. The tone will be practical, notacademic. The working assumption is that readers want to know what(and what not) might or should be done, without over emphasis onthe why. That said, it is important to review the crucial basicscience necessary for effective diagnosis and management, and toprovide reminders in the context of the practical chapters. The books will not be heavily referenced, in line with a morepractical approach. This allows for smoother reading (and alsorelieves the burden of comprehensive citing from authors). Keyevidence (clinical trials, Cochrane or other meta analyses) shouldbe summarized in 'Evidence at a Glance' boxes and key referencessuch as reviews, major papers can be provided in the 'selectedbibliography' at the end of each chapter. Practical guidance will be provided through: * the use of algorithms and guidelines where they areappropriate * 'Tips and Tricks' boxes - hints on improving outcomesperhaps via practical technique, patient questioning etc * 'Caution' warning boxes - hints on avoiding problems,perhaps via contraindications * 'Science Revisited' - quick reminder of the basic scienceprinciples necessary for understanding