A client diagnosed with Chlamydia expresses concerns about the possible consequences of the infection. Which of the following statements by the nurse is appropriate? Select the nurse's correct response.

Choice A rationale:

STIs are not exclusively caused by bacteria. They can also be caused by viruses (e.g., HIV, herpes), parasites (e.g., trichomoniasis), and other pathogens.

Choice B rationale:

STIs can be transmitted through various means, including sexual intercourse, but also through other forms of sexual contact (oral, anal), sharing of contaminated needles, and from mother to baby during childbirth or breastfeeding.

Choice C rationale:

This statement is inaccurate. Many STIs can have serious consequences for health, including infertility, chronic pain, cancer (e.g., HPV-related cervical cancer), and increased risk of other infections (e.g., HIV transmission is facilitated by some STIs)

Choice D rationale:

This is the correct choice. STIs can indeed affect anyone who engages in sexual activity, regardless of age or gender. Being sexually active without proper protection and precautions increases the risk of STI transmission.

Choice A rationale:

Chlamydia does not typically present with painful vesicles or ulcers; it usually causes genital discharge and discomfort during urination.

Choice B rationale:

Gonorrhea does not commonly cause painful vesicles or ulcers; it primarily leads to genital discharge and discomfort during urination.

Choice C rationale:

Syphilis can cause ulcers (chancre) but is not typically associated with recurrent vesicles, tingling, or itching. It goes through different stages.

Choice D rationale:

This is the correct choice. Genital herpes commonly presents with painful vesicles or ulcers on the genitals, anus, or mouth, along with tingling, burning, or itching before the outbreak.

Choice E rationale:

This is the correct choice. Genital warts, caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), can lead to the development of warts on the genitalia and surrounding areas.