Millions of Americans suffer from sexually transmitted diseases (STD), also called sexually transmitted infections (STI). In fact, more than 2.5 million new cases were reported in 2022. Most of these diseases aren’t life-threatening, but they can cause short- and long-term discomfort if left untreated.
Unfortunately, these infections don’t always cause obvious symptoms. You may be suffering from an STD without realizing what is causing your discomfort. The longer you go without treatment, the worse your side effects may become.
In this blog, you’ll learn the common signs of an STI and what to do if you think you might be infected.
Do I have an STD?
STDs are spread through contact with an infected person’s genitals or bodily fluids, including oral, vaginal, or anal sex. These infections can be caused by viruses, bacteria, and parasites. If you are sexually active, especially if you have unprotected sex, you may be at risk of having an STI.
The symptoms below may be signs of an STD, but can also indicate another health problem. Additionally, you can have a sexual infection without experiencing any symptoms. If you are sexually active, you should always seek STD testing to protect your health.
1. Unusual vaginal discharge
Vaginal discharge is a normal part of a woman’s menstrual cycle. During ovulation, for example, this mucus becomes thinner and more slippery to help sperm reach the egg.
If you have an STI, however, you may notice that your discharge changes and becomes unfamiliar. Some women have green, yellow, or yellowish-green vaginal discharge. You may also notice that your mucus becomes clumpy or thick. A strong, foul smell from your vagina and discharge is another sign of a sexually transmitted disease.
2. Abnormal vaginal bleeding
A pregnant woman may spot during early pregnancy or after the embryo implants in her uterus. But a healthy woman who isn’t pregnant should only bleed during menstruation (your period).
If you have noticed blood in your vaginal discharge or small amounts of blood in your underwear, you may have an STI. We recommend ruling out pregnancy before seeking treatment for the infection.
At Thrive Orlando, you can get a free medical-grade pregnancy test and STD testing and treatment. Book your appointment to get the answers you need.
3. Pain during vaginal sex
When you develop a sexually transmitted infection, the tissue in your vagina becomes inflamed. Some STDs can also cause lesions on your cervix and inside your vagina. Sex irritates this tissue, often causing pain or discomfort.
STIs can also spread to your uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. This is a condition called pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). This may cause pain in your pelvis and abdomen, often during sex. Without treatment, PID may cause chronic pain, infertility, and ectopic pregnancy. You have a higher risk of developing PID if you have an untreated STD during an abortion, miscarriage, or birth.
To prevent discomfort and to avoid spreading a potential infection, wait until after you’ve received treatment to engage in sex.
4. Bumps or sores around your mouth or genitals
Some types of sexual infections may cause warts, blisters, or rashes. Warts may be bumpy or flat and are the same color as your skin. Blisters are red and may come and go throughout the year. You may also develop an inflamed rash or large, painful sores.
These symptoms will show on the genitals if spread through vaginal or anal sex. They may also appear around the mouth if the infection is spread through oral sex. While embarrassing, you shouldn’t be ashamed of your STI. Instead, seek treatment and try to avoid future STDs.
5. Vaginal itching and burning
Itching and burning around the vagina can be caused by STIs, but it can also come from other irritants. A yeast infection or an allergy to latex condoms, for instance, can cause this discomfort. If you have ruled out other possible causes or if you have other symptoms, a sexual infection may be the problem.
6. Uncomfortable urination
Many women experience changes in urination when they have an STD. The infection may cause burning or pain while peeing. It can also make you feel like you need to pee more often or like you need to go immediately. Blood in your urine and changes in color are additional signs of a sexually transmitted disease.
Find free STD testing and treatment in Orlando, Florida
It’s always important to take care of your health, but it’s even more important to get care while you’re pregnant.
If you think you are pregnant, you can get a free pregnancy test at our clinic. You may also qualify for free STI testing and treatment to ensure the best care.