Sexually transmitted diseases (also called sexually transmitted infections or STIs) are on the rise, according to data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That’s why it’s more important than ever to recognize the symptoms in order to seek treatment and prevent spreading these infections to others.
Some of the most common sexually transmitted disease (STD) symptoms for women include:
No Symptoms
The scary truth is that many people infected with an STD experience no symptoms at all or symptoms so minor that they write them off as something else. Left untreated, some STDs can have serious long-term health implications.
Vaginal Discharge
Milky white, yellow or green discharge can be a symptom of several STDs. Discharge resulting from chlamydia may be yellowish and have a strong smell. Slightly green discharge that is either watery or creamy may be associated with gonorrhea or trichomoniasis.
Vaginal/Vulvar Itching
Chlamydia, genital herpes, genital warts, trichomoniasis, gonorrhea and other bacterial sexually transmitted infections can all cause vaginal/vulvar itching. While such itching can also be related to allergic reactions and yeast infections, among other things, it’s worth checking out.
Genital Blisters
Blisters or bumps that develop on or around the genitals are a strong indicator of Herpes simplex virus 1 and 2. These blisters may ooze or crust and present tingling or burning sensations.
Burning or Painful Urination
Both chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause a burning sensation during urination, increased urinary frequency and, in some instances, blood in the urine. Any one of these symptoms may be present without the other two.
Bleeding Between Periods
Bleeding or spotting between periods – assuming you’re not pregnant or haven’t recently started a new birth control – can point to a variety of STDs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea and pelvic inflammatory disease (PIV). Bleeding during sex is also a related indicator.
Sore Throat
Sore throat may not be a symptom people typically associate with STDs, but when it develops following oral sex, it could be an indicator of herpes, syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia or even HIV.
While the list above covers the most common STD symptoms, there are many more. Sexually transmitted infections can impact a variety of your body’s functions. From lower back or pelvic pain to fever and nausea, and from genital rashes to swelling of the joints, STIs can present in many ways.
If you’re sexually active – whether you display symptoms or not, it’s in your best interest to be tested regularly to ensure you are not infected.
At Sira in Gainesville, we offer free testing for the two most common sexually transmitted infections in the United States – chlamydia and gonorrhea. Tests are performed confidentially in our friendly office on NW 13th Street. And if you need further tests for other STDs, we will refer you to a community partner for additional testing.
Contact Sira in Gainesville today at 352-377-4947 to schedule your appointment.