Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are diseases that can be transmitted through sexual activities. STDs can cause serious symptoms that cause pain and discomfort. If you are experiencing pain, especially in the genitalia, it is possible that you have contracted an STD. Fortunately, there are medicines and treatments available for those who have contracted STDs. To get access to these treatments, you must first get an STD test at an STD clinic, and be diagnosed by a doctor. If you are experiencing a symptom of an STD, then it is highly recommended that you see a specialised STD doctor. What are some common symptoms of STDs? Here are four symptoms of STDs that you cannot ignore.

Painful urination

If you notice pain and discomfort when you pee, it could be because of an STD. Painful urination is a common sign that you may have a urinary tract infection (UTI), which means that your urinary tract is inflamed. This can be caused by STDs such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea, bacterial infections that can infect the urinary tract. Patients who experience this painful urination may even be afraid of peeing as a result. Fortunately, there are antibiotic medications available to cure these STDs, though it may take a few days to a week for such medicines to work. Visiting an STD clinic to see a doctor may allow you to be prescribed such important medications.

Discharge from the penis or vagina

While vaginal discharge is a common occurrence, it could also be a sign of an infection, especially if the discharge is abnormally coloured (yellow or green) and smells foul. This discharge can be caused by an STD known as trichomoniasis, caused by a single-cell organism that can be transmitted through sexual contact, but also the sharing of towels. Abnormally coloured discharge may also be a result of other STDs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea. In men, discharge from the penis may occur as well. Penile discharge may be caused by chlamydia, gonorrhoea or genital herpes. As discharge from the genitalia is a common sign of a bacterial infection, you can seek treatment from an STD doctor, who can prescribe you antibiotics to treat the infection.

Rashes or warts near the genitals

Rashes and warts are very common signs of herpes and HPV, two STDs that spread through skin contact. Genital herpes enters your body through miniscule breaks in your skin and through other mucous membranes, causing bumps, blisters and sores to develop in the area. It is also likely that the area will itch. HPV, or the human papillomavirus, is the cause of genital warts – swellings in the genital area. Warts can multiply on its own and may even develop in other areas such as in the mouth. For treatment for such symptoms, visit an STD clinic.

High fevers (HIV)

A very common symptom of HIV, a virus that attacks the body’s immune system is high fevers. High fevers are common as the body’s immune system responds to the presence of the virus. These fevers can be often mistaken for dengue fever, and will usually subside within a few days. However, it is important to get tested, as HIV can develop into AIDS, a late stage where the body’s immune system is worn down by the virus and becomes susceptible to common infections. Getting tested will provide you with access to antiretroviral medication that can prolong your lifespan.