STIs (sexually transmitted infections) are transmitted through sexual contact between individuals. If you have an STI without knowing, you can unintentionally pass it to your partner(s). This may become risky for both you and the other person(s) in future.
Most bacterial and viral STIs exhibit noticeable symptoms. However, some infections remain in asymptomatic form. They leave you unaware of your infection. This blog will list some of the most common symptoms of STIs which most people overlook. Also, a comprehensive list of remedies is provided.
What factors increase the risk of contracting an STI?
Anyone can get infected with STI anytime. However, several factors can heighten this risk of contraction. They are as follows:
- Engaging in unprotected sexual intercourse.
- Involving in sexual activity with multiple partners.
- Doing sex while using recreational drugs (like methamphetamines).
What are the six STIs you can be at risk of?
There are numerous sexually transmitted infections prevalent around us. You can potentially acquire them without protection.
Some of these infections remain unnoticed and become more severe than others. They may turn fatal if not detected early.
The six common STIs are as follows:
Human immunodeficiency virus
HIV is a virus that weakens the immune system. It diminishes the potential to combat infections and makes your body vulnerable towards common infections.
If left untreated, it can lead to severe complications.
Probable symptoms:
You may face frequent illnesses. For e.g., fever, flu etc. This is often associated with extreme tiredness and soreness of throat. Also, inflammation of lymph nodes can occur.
Possible remedies:
There is no permanent cure for this disease. But certain measures can help manage the spread of infection. Since HIV takes a long time to manifest itself, it is better to get screened earlier. You may visit a private sexual health clinic for this purpose.
Antiretroviral treatment is one of the effective ways to manage the infection. It suppresses HIV replication. Thus, the immune system can recover and maintain stable function. Post- exposure prophylaxis is another remedy. This involves taking medications within 72 hours (3 days) of potential exposure to HIV virus.
Human papillomavirus
This is a viral STI. Often it does not manifest itself. If you’re in good health, your body can typically clear the infection naturally.
However, HPV increases the likelihood of developing cancers such as cervical, vulvar, vaginal, anal, or throat cancer.
Probable symptoms:
Generally, it is associated with painful warts (in the anal and genital areas). You may experience abnormal bleeding between periods, post-menopause, or after sex. There may be foul-smelling discharge too. This can cause overall vaginal discomfort.
Other not-so-significant symptoms are fatigue, reduced appetite and weight loss. You may have persistent pain in the back, legs, or pelvis. This can even be associated with swelling of legs.
Possible remedies:
Practising safe sex is the best possible way to avoid this infection. If you visit a private sexual health clinic, the doctor may ask you to get routine pap tests. With the advent of HPV vaccine, you can get immunized earlier.
Genital herpes
Genital herpes primarily spreads through direct skin contact. The causative organism is a virus (HSV virus).
Since it carries significant stigma, people do not discuss generally. It may exist in asymptomatic form and can be transmitted between sexual partners.
Probable symptoms:
You may develop ulcers in the genital and anal regions. Also, there can be painful sores around mouth.
Possible remedies:
You can use antiviral drugs to lessen the symptoms. However, the best way to avoid contracting this STI is to abstain from oral and penetrative sex. Try not to share any personal objects (may have the germ onto those). Last but not the least, maintain personal hygiene.
Syphilis
Syphilis is a bacterial STI. It is typically transmitted through vaginal and oral sex. Without proper diagnosis and treatment, you can develop complications in near future (after initially contracting).
For pregnant women, untreated syphilis can have serious consequences. It can result in stillbirths. If the baby survives, they can develop short- and long-term abnormalities. Moreover, it can cause severe damage to the baby’s vital organs.
Probable symptoms:
You may experience severe body rashes (may spread to palms of hands and soles of feet). Also, there can be painful ulcers in the anal and genital area. This may spread to the eyes and ears gradually. A high risk of stroke persists even. However in rare cases, inflammation of meninges occurs.
Possible remedies:
You may follow a specific course of antibiotics. However, the best way is to avoid sexual contact with infected persons. Maintaining proper hygiene (of the private parts) is of prime importance. Try not to share objects of any kind.
Chlamydia and gonorrhoeae
These two STIs are caused by bacteria. However, they often do not show symptoms. Unrecognized infections (in women) can spread to the uterus and other reproductive parts. This can result in infertility and complications during pregnancy.
If left untreated, pregnant women can transmit the infection to their newborn during childbirth. This potentially may result in eye infections or pneumonia in the baby.
Probable symptoms:
You may feel a burning sensation while peeing (in women). This can be associated with chronic pelvic pain and abnormal bleeding. In some cases, the vagina releases greenish discharge. For males, unusual penile discharges may occur.
Possible remedies:
Using antibiotics can lessen symptoms. Well, you should always avoid sex with diseased partner. If symptoms do not show, visit a private sexual health clinic at your earliest.
What is the current scenario of STI in London?
More than 43,000 new cases of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are diagnosed annually in London. However, the true number of individuals affected by STIs may be significantly higher. This especially happens for asymptomatic infections which persist in the body.
Finding a reliable STI testing clinic in London can be challenging. This especially happens when long waiting times make appointments hard to secure. It can become frustrating at times. Fortunately, there are alternative solutions that provide you with fast services.
Overcoming the stigma associated with STI
Medical science has made significant progress. Open discussion regarding sexual health is now possible. However, many people still avoid talking to their healthcare provider about it. This increases the danger of expecting complications in the long run.
Remember, a genuine discussion always averts future risks. Feel free to talk with your sexual partner(s) about your past relationships and sexual behaviour. These conversations can ease the stigma related to STIs.
Role of private sexual health clinic in identifying STIs
Private sexual health clinics in London can facilitate rapid diagnostic assessments. They offer quick information about your current health profile as well as maintain privacy.
These clinics will make you aware of the common symptoms of STIs. This can save you from fatal conditions. Plus, they can guide you in determining appropriate screening methods.
If you are facing any symptoms of STI, take charge immediately. You can visit a private sexual health clinic in London to book a consultation.
Conclusion
These STIs are very common and often do not show symptoms. Thus, it becomes a serious problem for individuals who are sexually active. Visit a private sexual health clinic in London to book a consultation at your earliest.
