Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are caused by sexually transmitted infections spread mainly through sexual contact. STIs/STDs can be bacterial, viral, or caused by parasites.
Often, STDs have no signs or symptoms. It is essential to get tested for STDs if you are sexually active, particularly if you have a new partner or have had multiple partners.
Two of the most common bacterial STDs are chlamydia and gonorrhea. Keep reading to learn more about the signs and symptoms.
Chlamydia
Chlamydia is an infection of the genital tract. Usually, there are few or no signs or symptoms. However, if you do have symptoms, they could appear in five to fourteen days after exposure.
If you have Chlamydia, the following signs or symptoms may occur:
- Pain in the abdomen
- Lower back pain
- Painful urination, which may feel like burning
- Fever
- Rectal pain or discharge
- Discharge from the vagina or penis
- Bleeding between periods
- Testicle pain or swelling
- Vaginal pain during sex
Chlamydia can be diagnosed with a urine test and treated with antibiotics. It’s critical to catch and treat it early to prevent serious harm to your health.
Chlamydia will not go away on its own without treatment.
Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is another common bacterial STD that can cause serious health problems.
Gonorrhea often has no symptoms. Most women will not experience symptoms, and even if they do, the symptoms can be mild and confused with a bladder or vaginal infection.
As a result, gonorrhea can unknowingly spread between partners.
If women do have signs or symptoms, these can include:
- Painful or burning sensation during urination
- Increased vaginal discharge
- Vaginal bleeding between periods
If men have signs or symptoms, these can include:
- Burning sensation during urination
- A white, yellow, or green discharge from the penis
- Painful or swollen testicles
Gonorrhea can also be diagnosed with a urine test and treated with antibiotics. It is important to ensure the infection has fully been cured, as drug-resistant strains of gonorrhea are increasing.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
If either chlamydia or gonorrhea are left untreated, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) can develop in women. This happens when the STDs spread further into the reproductive system and cause a pelvic infection.
Complications of PID include:
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Ectopic pregnancies
- Infertility
- Tubo-ovarian abscess
Testing Is Necessary!
For the sake of your health, get tested for STDs. Testing is essential if you think you might be pregnant.
InnerVisions HealthCare can provide both women and men with STD testing for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes 1 and 2, HIV, and hepatitis C.
Take care of your sexual health. Contact us for more details and to schedule testing today.