Many sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) have minimal or no symptoms. This means the infection can be in your body for weeks, months, or even years before it is detected. Living with an STD is not only dangerous for you–as STDs can cause lifelong health complications–but it is also harms your sexual partners by passing along disease.
Here are three signs of an STD that you should not ignore.
Pain in Lower Abdomen
Pain in your lower abdomen can indicate pelvic inflammatory disease, which is an infection in the female reproductive organs. Symptoms of pelvic inflammatory disease include mild to severe pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis, unusual or heavy vaginal discharge or uterine bleeding, pain during intercourse, fever, and urination that is painful, frequent, or difficult.
Bumps and Sores
Syphilis, Chancroids, and HPV can cause a variety of bumps, sores, warts, or blisters on or near your genitals. The spots can also appear in the mouth, around the lips, and around the anus, if you’ve engaged in anal or oral sex. You should make an appointment with your physician if one of these spots appears, even if it resolves. It’s best to eliminate the infection in your body so it doesn’t cause further damage or be passed to your partner.
Itching and Irritation
If you have persistent itching or irritation in your vagina or penis, it’s time to have an exam with your physician. Longstanding itching or irritation can be caused by a parasite called trichomoniasis and it is treated with antibiotics.
Private Testing Center is here to help with all your testing needs. We offer affordable and convenient testing in a constant effort to prevent the spread of Herpes, HIV and other STDs. We deliver fast results so any necessary treatment can happen quickly. Same Day appointments are available and with over 1500 locations nationwide, your closest location is only a short drive away. We understand your privacy is of the utmost importance and we assure confidentiality for every one of our customers.