Symptoms of Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Have you ever wondered if the symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are similar or different enough to distinguish between them? Read on to find out the answer and learn more details.

General Symptoms of STDs

The symptoms of STDs vary depending on the type of infection. Each disease is characterized by its own unique symptoms. However, some STDs may not show any symptoms at all, and patients may only discover they are infected after complications arise or when their partner is diagnosed. Before we discuss the specific symptoms of each disease, here are some general symptoms common to many STDs:

• Symptoms Related to the Genital Area

In most cases, symptoms appear around the genital area and may include:

1. Bumps, sores, or warts on the penis, vagina, anus, or nearby areas.
2. Unusual discharge from the penis or vagina, often with a foul odor, abnormal color or quantity, or irritation.
3. Swelling, intense itching, and redness around the penis or vagina.
4. Pain during sexual intercourse.
5. Frequent urination or pain during urination.
6. Vaginal bleeding outside of menstrual periods.

• Symptoms Affecting Other Areas of the Body

Some STDs may also cause symptoms in other parts of the body, such as:

1. Rash on various parts of the body, especially the torso, hands, or feet.
2. Unexplained weight loss.
3. Night sweats.
4. Diarrhea.
5. Aches, pains, fever, and chills.
6. Jaundice, which causes yellowing of the skin and eyes.
7. Fever.
8. Lower abdominal pain.
9. Swollen and inflamed lymph nodes, especially in the groin area.

Specific Symptoms for Each STD

As mentioned earlier, each STD may have its own set of symptoms. Below are some of the specific symptoms for various STDs:

• Symptoms of Chlamydia

Chlamydia usually causes:

1. Abnormal discharge from the vagina or penis.
2. Burning sensation during urination.
3. Pain and swelling in one or both testicles in men.
4. Pain and discharge from the rectum.

• Symptoms of Genital Herpes

Most people with genital herpes may not show any symptoms or may experience very mild symptoms that are easily overlooked or mistaken for other skin conditions like pimples or ingrown hairs.

• Symptoms of Gonorrhea

In many cases, gonorrhea may not cause symptoms. If symptoms do appear, they may be mild and resemble bladder or vaginal infections, including:

1. Pain and burning sensation during urination.
2. Increased vaginal discharge.
3. Vaginal bleeding between periods.
4. White or green discharge from the penis.
5. Pain and swelling in the testicles in rare cases.
6. Rectal pain, bleeding, and discharge with anal itching.

• Symptoms of Syphilis

Syphilis symptoms vary depending on the stage of the infection:

1. Primary stage: Sores appear on the skin, usually on the penis, vagina, anus, rectum, or lips.
2. Secondary stage: A red, rough rash appears on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet, along with fever, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, hair loss, headaches, weight loss, muscle pain, and fatigue.
3. Latent stage: No visible symptoms during this phase.
4. Tertiary stage: This dangerous phase can affect various organs, including the heart, blood vessels, brain, and nervous system.

• Symptoms of Trichomoniasis

Around 70% of those infected may not show symptoms, but when symptoms do appear, they include:

1. Itching and irritation of the penis, penile discharge, and burning sensation after urination or ejaculation in men.
2. Vaginal itching, burning, redness, and pain in the genital area.
3. Vaginal discharge that is clear, white, yellow, or green with a foul smell.

Symptoms of Hepatitis (Viral)

After contracting a viral form of hepatitis, the following symptoms may occur:

1. Stomach issues and vomiting.
2. Loss of appetite.
3. Dark urine.
4. Fever.
5. Itching.
6. Abdominal pain, especially on the right side under the ribs.
7. Muscle and joint pain.
8. Jaundice.

Symptoms of Genital Warts

Some strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) cause genital warts, while others cause cervical cancer. Genital wart symptoms, one of the most common STDs, include:

1. Small or large bumps on the genital area.
2. Multiple warts that resemble cauliflower.
3. Bleeding after intercourse.
4. Itching in the affected area.

When Symptoms Appear?

The time frame for symptoms to appear varies depending on the type of STD. Some diseases may show symptoms within a few days, while others take several years before noticeable symptoms or complications arise.

For this reason, it is important not to rely on symptoms alone if you suspect you may have contracted an STD. Testing and screening are essential for proper diagnosis. Some STDs can take up to seven weeks to show symptoms, so even if no symptoms are present, it is best to wait for this period before getting tested.

Blazma offers a range of STD testing packages, including a general STD test package and STD Disease Test Package (PCR), both of which require no prior preparations.