What is a venereal disease?
A person with a venereal disease has an infection that is spread through sexual contact. Venereal disease is usually caused by viruses or bacteria. Common causes of venereal disease include gonorrhea, chlamydia trachomatis, genital herpes and genital warts. About 5 percent of people in the US develop venereal disease each year.

What are the symptoms of a venereal disease?
Symptoms of a venereal disease in females include pelvic pain and vaginal discharge. Symptoms of venereal disease in males include penile discharge, testicular pain, and rectal pain. Additional symptoms in males and females include pain during urination, abdominal pain, rash, fever, genital sores, genital ulcers, and genital warts.

How does the doctor treat a venereal disease?
Treatment for a venereal disease depends on the cause. Treatment for a venereal disease may include antibiotics or antiviral medication. Sexual partners should also be evaluated by a doctor and treated.