Think you might have an STD/STI? Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and are spread by sexual contact. STIs are caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites, which may pass from person to person in blood, semen, or vaginal and other bodily fluids.
For sexually active people, regular STD/STI testing is important to protect their health and prevent them from passing anything to their partners. Treatment is vital to prevent infections from getting worse and causing any harm to your body.
STD/STI Symptoms
STDs have various symptoms but could also have no symptoms at all. This is why sexually transmitted infections (STIs) may go undetected until a person starts to experience complications or a partner is diagnosed.
Untreated STIs can lead to health complications, so it’s important to get tested. Common STI symptoms may include:
- Sores or bumps on the genitals or in the oral or rectal area
- Painful or burning urination
- Discharge from the penis
- Unusual or odorous vaginal discharge
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
- Pain during sex
- Sore, swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the groin, but sometimes more widespread
- Lower abdominal pain
- Fever
- Rash over the trunk, hands, or feet
Prevent Health Complications
STIs are normally treatable with medication, but people could experience serious complications when not treated in the early stages.
A common complication is called pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which happens in women. It’s caused by chlamydia and/or gonorrhea and can cause infertility and scar tissue in the reproductive tract.
To prevent any health complications, get tested right away with your local medical provider. Though we don’t provide testing or treatment, our staff can educate you more about STDs/STIs and help answer questions.
You deserve clarity when it comes to your sexual health. You are not alone in this journey. Don’t wait and wonder, but get tested right away.