Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), also known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are infections passed from one person to another through sexual contact. There are many different STDs, some more common than others. Many STDs do not cause symptoms, so it is possible to have one without knowing it. The only way to know for sure if you have an STD is to get tested.
Common STDs and their symptoms
Here are some of the most common STDs and symptoms to watch out for:
Chlamydia
– Most women do not have symptoms
– Abnormal vaginal discharge or bleeding
– Burning sensation when urinating
– Lower abdominal pain
Gonorrhea
– Most women do not have symptoms
– Burning sensation when urinating
– Increased vaginal discharge
– Vaginal bleeding between periods
Trichomoniasis
– Yellow, green, or gray vaginal discharge
– Vaginal odor
– Itching, burning, or redness of the vagina
– Discomfort when urinating or during sex
Genital Herpes
– Painful blisters or open sores in the genital area
– Itching or burning sensation
– Vaginal discharge
– Pain when urinating
HIV
– Flu-like symptoms 2-4 weeks after infection
– Night sweats
– Fatigue
– Swollen lymph nodes
– Rash
– No symptoms at all
Genital Warts (HPV)
– Small, painless bumps in the genital area
– Itching or discomfort in the genital area
– Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge
– No symptoms at all
When to suspect an STD without testing
In some cases, it is possible to suspect you may have an STD even without getting tested right away. Here are some signs that point to a possible STD:
- Unusual discharge, odor, burning, or itching from the vagina or vulva
- Painful sex or unusual bleeding during/after sex
- Pain or burning sensation when urinating
- Lower abdominal pain
- Skin rash or bumps around the genitals, anus, or mouth
- Flu-like symptoms that persist
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is a good idea to see your doctor. They can examine you and determine if testing is needed. Many STDs can be cured with simple antibiotic treatment, especially if caught early. Leaving an STD untreated can lead to long-term health problems.
At-home STD tests
There are some at-home STD test kits available that allow you to collect a sample at home and mail it to a lab for testing. Some common at-home STD tests include:
Chlamydia and Gonorrhea
For women, these tests require using a vaginal swab to collect a sample from the vagina. The sample is then mailed in for testing.
HIV
HIV home tests use a sample of blood from a finger prick or oral fluid from swabbing the mouth. The sample is mailed in to check for HIV antibodies.
HPV
HPV tests look for the virus that causes genital warts. A vaginal swab is used to collect a sample that is sent to the lab.
Herpes
Herpes testing also uses a sample collected with a vaginal swab. The sample is checked for the herpes simplex virus.
Keep in mind at-home STD tests may not be as accurate as tests done in a clinic. Speak to your doctor about the best testing options for your situation.
Getting tested
Despite symptoms or at-home testing, the only way to know for sure if you have an STD is to see your doctor and get tested. Here are some recommendations for STD testing:
- Get tested if you are sexually active, especially with new partners
- Get tested annually as part of your routine health screening
- Get tested if you suspect you may have been exposed to an STD
- Get tested if you have any symptoms that could indicate an STD
- Follow up with your doctor if you test positive so you can get proper treatment
STD testing typically involves:
- Physical exam
- Taking a medical history
- Testing urine sample
- Testing any discharge or sores
- Blood tests
It’s important to abstain from sexual activity while waiting for test results. If you test positive, let your partner(s) know so they can also get tested and treated.
Protecting yourself from STDs
The best protection against STDs is abstinence or a long-term, mutually monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner. For those who are sexually active, here are some tips for lowering your STD risk:
- Use latex condoms and dental dams correctly every time you have sex
- Limit your number of sexual partners
- Don’t douche, which eliminates good bacteria and raises STD risk
- Don’t share sex toys and get tested regularly if you do use them
- Ask about your partner’s STD status and encourage them to get tested
- Get vaccinated against HPV and hepatitis A&B
- Avoid sex while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Remember that many STDs do not show symptoms, so the best defense is prevention and regular screening.
Conclusion
Suspecting you have an STD is not the same as a diagnosis. Testing is crucial to know your status and get treatment if needed. See your doctor right away if you have any symptoms or concerns related to STDs. Protect yourself by using condoms, limiting partners, and getting vaccinated. With open communication, testing, and safe sex practices, STDs can be effectively managed and controlled.