Sexual contact is often how sexually transmitted illnesses (STDs) or infections (STIs) are contracted. Blood, vaginal fluid, semen, and other body fluids are all potential carriers of the bacteria, viruses, or parasites that cause sexually transmitted illnesses.
Symptoms are not always present with STIs. Sexually transmitted infections can be acquired from seemingly healthy individuals who may not even know they are infected. As a result, an individual must inform their sexual partners if they learn they have an STD. This will allow them to be screened, receive medical attention, and perhaps even stop the spread of the disease.
Here are some critical warning signs to getting screened for an STD.
Open sores
These can be in, on, or near the genital or anal region. Urination might be uncomfortable due to ulcers. Additionally, it may indicate vaginal pain and tenderness until the infection is treated. Herpes and syphilis both exhibit open sores as a sign and symptoms.
Painful urination
A common indication of an STD is pain or a burning feeling while urinating. Additionally, this could be a sign of kidney stones or a UTI. Getting screened is crucial to begin treatment. Thankfully, same-day STD tests are accessible. Painful urination could be a symptom of herpes, gonorrhea, and chlamydia.
Rash
This may manifest as small reddish-brown lesions on any body part, not your typical rash. It may be on the genitalia, rectum, tongue, or lips. The palms of the hands or the bottoms of the feet may also develop a rash. Such a rash is a symptom and indicator of syphilis, HIV, and herpes.
Abnormal vaginal bleeding and discharge
Both menstrual bleeding and vaginal discharge are natural. There is cause for concern, nevertheless, if there is heavy bleeding (during or between periods) or if the discharge has an odd color and an unpleasant smell. This may be a sign or symptom of gonorrhea and chlamydia.
Unusual male genital discharge or swelling
Penile secretions might be clear or cloudy (containing pus), or they can be bloody. This may aggravate burning or pain while urinating. “Genital swelling” describes an enlargement of the testicles or the scrotum. These symptoms indicate gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and in some rare instances, herpes.
Lower abdominal pain
Lower abdominal discomfort is caused by pelvic region pain, which may be subtle, sharp, or even excruciatingly painful. Additionally, the liver region on the right side, just below the ribs, might cause abdominal pain. Chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, herpes, and genital warts all exhibit this symptom and indication.
Swollen lymph nodes
Infections, whether bacterial or viral, frequently cause swollen lymph nodes. Enlarged lymph nodes may appear on your neck, under your chin, armpits, and groin. Chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, and HIV all exhibit symptoms and signs similar to these.
Itching
Genital area itching, including itchiness in the vagina, penis, inner thighs, or buttocks (rectum or anal itchiness), maybe a sign of an STD. Itching and the desire to scratch can be uncomfortable. Chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, herpes, and genital warts are all commonly characterized by itching.