Are you experiencing painful urination or swelling near the penis or vagina? Then you might be worried, and rightfully so because these are basic symptoms of Sexually Transmitted Diseases.
Men and women experience similar symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the body, even though most don’t appear with symptoms. Hence it is advisable to get checked regularly once a person is sexually active.
Symptoms Of STDs
Here are common symptoms of STDs in men and women;
Bumps, sores, or warts around the mouth, anus, penis, or vaginal region
These are the basic symptoms of STDs. Sores become visible around the mouth and private parts, making it uncomfortable for the person going through this.
Skin rash
This is a brief occurrence of red, bumpy, scaly, or itchy skin patches, possibly accompanied by blisters or welts.
Urination pain
Men may have pain in their penis both before and after urinating. Women may have internal or outward symptoms. The sensitive skin outside your vaginal area may become inflamed or irritated and cause pain. A urinary tract infection may show symptoms of internal pain.
Loss of weight, loose stools, or night sweats
Sudden weight loss and night sweats can be a sign of an STD. These are late symptoms of HIV.
Skin discolouration (jaundice)
Jaundice causes the skin, mucous membranes, or eyes to turn yellow. Jaundice might be a result of hepatitis.
Discharge from the penis or vaginal canal (vaginal discharge may have an odour)
A sudden fishy smell from your vagina or vaginal discharge is a sign of an STD. If someone has chlamydia, gonorrhoea, or trichomoniasis, this symptom can remain.
Painful sex
Pain in the process of intercourse is another symptom of STDs. Both men and women experience this symptom.
Itching around the penis or vagina
Are you itchy down there? It could be a sign of something else, but there is every probability that is a symptom of an STD. The most common STDs that can cause this are; chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and trichomoniasis.
Pelvic discomfort
Chlamydia and gonorrhoea are the two primary causes of pelvic pain. Still, in some people, it may be a symptom of menstrual cramps, ovulation, or a digestive problem like food intolerance.
What Causes STDs?
STDs are caused by bacteria and viruses that develop in warm, wet areas of the body. They are carried from one person to the next via intercourse. Infections can enter the body through the penis, vagina, mouth, or anus. These infections can be minor or severe, causing severe pain and death.
Common Types Of STDs
Here are some common types of STDs;
- Hepatitis B (HBV)
- Genital Warts (HPV)
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhoea
- Syphilis
- Genital Herpes
- Trichomoniasis
- Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome(AIDS)
When do symptoms of STDs start?
The interval between infection and the appearance of symptoms differs widely depending on the infection and the individual. Symptoms do not always appear or go ignored. Regardless, an STD should never be overlooked. Many STDs can progress and cause lasting, irreparable harm if left untreated.
Can STDs be prevented?
Yes, STDs can be prevented by having protected sex at all times, limiting the number of sexual partners you have if more than one, and avoiding sexual contact with someone already affected by STDs.
If you have symptoms of STDs or you know someone with such, then go see a doctor immediately and get treated.
