I get this question alot…”does this … mean I have…..?” Being a nurse, you always get asked questions about all kinds of signs and symptoms. Lets break down some basic facts of what you need to look for in different stds.
Bacterial Vaginosis-This is one of the most common vaginal infections in women of childbearing years. Although, not classified as an STD, but it can be transmitted to other female partners. (Meaning, if a man has unprotected sex with a women, and then has unprotected sex with another women. He passes this infection between the two women). One main symptom that distinguishes this infection from all others is the strong fish-like odor discharge, that tend to be white or grey in color. You will also have itching,burning and pain at the vaginal area.
Candidiasis-Most people do not even consider a yeast infection an STD. In my opinion, I wish to list it here also to let you be aware that it can be transmitted to your sexual partner in most cases. 3 out of 4 women will have at least one yeast infection in their lifetime. Some of your symptoms include: itching, burning, and a “cottage cheese” discharge. (Men may complain of itching at the tip of the penis).
Chlamydia-This is the most reported STD in the world. From the Center of Disease Control, its estimated that nearly 3.1 million Americans are infected every year. It is believed that this STD is so widespread due to people are not aware that they even have the infection. Plus, if your partner is not treated at the SAME time as you, you will be re-infected. Symptoms include: vaginal discharge, low stomach and/or back pains, pain during sexual intercourse, and burning during urination. Chlamydia can cause INFERTILITY if left untreated.
Genital Herpes- This infectious disease has been slowly on the rise since the late 1970’s. There are two types of viruse associated with genital herpes. They are Herpes Simplex Viruse (HSV) type 1 and type 2. Both which may not show any symptoms. Yet with HSV-1, your symptoms would be possibly getting an infection around the mouth and lips called a cold sore (aka “fever blisters”). Typically, you can only get HSV-2 through having sexual contact. If infected, your outbreaks of sores on the genital area will probably happen 1 to 3 weeks after the inital transmission of the virus. There is NO CURE for genital herpes. Only medication to shorten future outbreaks.
Gonorrhea- is another STD that you may have no symptoms at all. This disease is caused also by a bacteria that grows more in the reproductive areas. Men symptoms typically include: burning when urinating ,discolored (possibly green) discharge from the penis, and swollen painful testicles. In women symptoms include: vaginal discharge, bleeding between menstrual cycles, and a painful burning sensation when urinating.
HIV- In most cases, HIV symptoms may not show up for 10 years or more. Common symptoms could include: rapid weight loss, night sweats with low grade temperature, extreme fatigue, and purple to brown dicolorations under the skin.
Human Papillomavirus- is a caused by multiple strains of many different virus that comes together to cause the infection. At early stages, HPV will clear up on its own. Yet again, there are sometimes no symptoms. Nearly 7 million people are infected with a new strain of the virus each year. Symptoms include: raised or flat shaped warts that are pink in color or an abnormal pap smear.
Syphilis- This disease has been around since the early 1600’s. Although, on the decline, this is still a very highly contiagous disease that is transmitted through personal contact with an infected individual. Syphilis has two phases. The first stage is referred as the primary stage. In this stage, symptoms include: a small painless sore (aka chancre) that appears where where the syphilis entered your body. It can last up to 6 weeks. If not treated, the infection will progress to the next stage, the secondary. Symptoms in the secondary phase could include: a reddish brown spots on the hands and bottom of the feet, fever, patchy hair loss, muscle ache and fatigue and internal organ damage. Without treatment of syphilis, death can occur.
Trichomoniasis- This is one of the most common STDs found in young people. On average, there are more than 8 million cases that are reported each year. Symptoms include: itching and burning in the vaginal area, discomfort during sexual intercourse, greenish yellow discharge with an odor, and painful urination. Trichomoniasis is curable.
All of the above are some of the symptoms of many commone STDs. The best preventive measure is always abstinence. I guess you can say that is easier said than done. So, on the other hand, always pratice safe sex. Use condoms. Use female condoms. Anything that will keep you safe is the right decision for you.