STI’s: Common Symptoms & The Importance of Routine Testing
Sexually transmitted infections (STI’s), also known as STDs, are very common. In the U.S., there are millions of new infections that occur each year (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2022). STIs are primarily passed from one person to another through sexual intercourse (including vaginal, oral, and anal sex). According to the CDC (2022), many people who contract an STI are asymptomatic or only have very mild symptoms. For this reason, it’s vital that individuals with multiple or changing sexual partners obtain regular STI testing and understand common STI symptoms.
Common STI’s
Human Pappilomavirus (HPV): HPV is the most common STI in the United States (CDC, 2022). HPV can be spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. There is an HPV vaccination available for recommended age groups, which can protect against diseases like cancer that are caused by HPV (CDC, 2022).
The HPV vaccine is recommended for all preteens at age 11 or 12, and everyone up to age 26 who has not already received a HPV vaccine (CDC, 2022).
Chlamydia: Chlamydia is a common STD which can cause permanent damage to a person with female reproductive organs, which can result in infertility or an ectopic pregnancy.
Gonorrhea: Gonorrhea is an STI that can infect the genitals, rectum, and throat (CDC, 2022). It is especially common amongst individuals aged 16-24.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): HIV is a virus that attack’s a person’s immune system and, if left untreated, can progress to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) (CDC, 2022). Many individuals who contract HIV begin to experience flu-like symptoms 2-4 weeks after infection, while others remain asymptomatic - highlighting the importance of regular STI testing.
While there is no cure for HIV, antiretroviral medication can help individuals effectively manage their condition.
Recognizing Common Symptoms of STI’s
Bumps, rashes, or sores on and around the genitals (including on or around the penis, labia, or anus). These symptoms are commonly associated with Herpes (both HSV-1 and HSV-2), HPV, and syphilis
Abnormal vaginal or penile discharge
Pain or burning sensations while urinating
Genital itching
Unusual genital odors
STI Prevention and Treatment
While the only way to 100% prevent an STI is abstinence, there are several ways to lower your risk of contracting STI’s.
If you are sexually active, receiving regular STI testing is an excellent way to prioritize your sexual health. The CDC (2021) recommends that individuals with multiple or anonymous partners should be tested every 3-6 months, with HIV testing at least once per year. Reducing the number of sexual partners can help lower your risk of contracting an STI.
Individuals at high risk for contacting HIV can talk to their doctor about taking pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), which can reduce the chance of getting HIV from sex, and is highly effective when taken as directed.
If you would like to receive STI testing, schedule with one of our primary care providers here.
Reference
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, October 18). CDC - STD Diseases & Related Conditions. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved December 11, 2022, from https://www.cdc.gov/std/general/default.htm
CDC. (2022, April 12). Std Facts - Human papillomavirus (HPV). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved December 12, 2022, from https://www.cdc.gov/std/hpv/stdfact-hpv.htm
CDC. (2021, December 14). Which STD tests should I get? Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved December 12, 2022, from https://www.cdc.gov/std/prevention/screeningreccs.htm