How Do You Know If You Have An STI?

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are incredibly common, yet many people don’t realise they have one because some infections do not cause symptoms. This means you could have an STI and pass it on to a partner without knowing. Understanding the signs of an STI and getting regular sexual health checks can help you protect yourself and others.

Key Takeaways

You might not know you have an STI.

Many STIs don’t cause symptoms, so you could pass one on without realising. Regular testing is the only way to be sure.

Look out for common signs.

Unusual discharge, pain when peeing, itching, lumps, or flu-like symptoms could be signs of an STI. If something feels wrong, get checked.

STIs are treatable, but early action is key.

Most STIs can be cured or managed with medication. Safe sex, regular testing, and talking openly with partners help protect everyone.

What Are the Symptoms of an STI?

While many STIs can be symptomless, some infections cause noticeable signs. Here are the most common symptoms to look out for:

1. Unusual Discharge

• Women: Vaginal discharge is natural, but changes in colour, smell, or consistency could indicate an STI like chlamydia or gonorrhoea.

• Men: Any unusual discharge from the penis, especially white, green, or yellow fluid, should be checked by a doctor.

Discharge can also be caused by thrush or other infections, so it's always best to get tested.

2. Genital Itching or Irritation

• Persistent itching, redness, or irritation around the genitals could be a sign of genital herpes, pubic lice, or trichomoniasis.

• Other conditions like eczema or yeast infections can also cause itching, but if in doubt, get tested.

3. Pain or Burning When Urinating

• A burning sensation while urinating is often associated with chlamydia, gonorrhoea, or trichomoniasis.

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can also cause similar symptoms, so testing is the best way to know for sure.

4. Lumps, Sores, or Blisters

• Genital warts: Small, flesh-coloured lumps that may look like cauliflower.

• Genital herpes: Painful sores or blisters that may break open and scab over.

• Syphilis: Painless ulcers or sores that appear around the genitals or mouth.

• Some lumps may just be ingrown hairs or cysts, but it’s always safest to check.

5. Unusual Bleeding

• Bleeding between periods or after sex can be a sign of chlamydia, gonorrhoea, or other infections.

• It can also be linked to hormonal changes or cervical issues, so it’s important to speak to a doctor.

6. Lower Abdominal Pain

• Some STIs, particularly chlamydia and gonorrhoea, can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, causing pain in the lower abdomen.

• Left untreated, PID can lead to fertility problems.

7. Flu-Like Symptoms

• Some infections, such as HIV and syphilis, can cause fever, swollen glands, and body aches.

• If you feel generally unwell after unprotected sex, consider getting tested.

How Can You Get an STI Test?

If you have any of the symptoms above, or if you've had unprotected sex with a new partner, it's important to get tested. In the UK, STI tests are free and available at:

• NHS sexual health clinics

• GP surgeries

• Pharmacies offering sexual health services

• Online STI testing services (self-test kits)

Testing is usually quick and painless. It may involve a urine sample, a blood test, or a swab from the affected area.

What Happens If You Test Positive for an STI?

Most STIs are easily treatable, especially if caught early. Common treatments include:

• Antibiotics for bacterial infections like chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and syphilis.

• Antiviral medications for genital herpes and HIV to help manage symptoms.

• Topical treatments for genital warts.

If you test positive for an STI, your healthcare provider will advise on the best treatment and whether you need to inform previous partners.

How Often Should You Get Tested?

You should get tested if:

• You have had unprotected sex with a new or multiple partners.

• You or your partner has symptoms of an STI.

• You are starting a new relationship.

• You are sexually active and under 25 (as advised by the NHS).

• You are at higher risk due to your sexual history.

How to Prevent STIs

The best way to reduce your risk of STIs is by practising safe sex:

• Use condoms every time you have sex.

• Get vaccinated for HPV and hepatitis B.

• Limit the number of sexual partners and choose partners who have been tested.

• Have open and honest conversations with partners about STIs and testing.

Final Thoughts

The only way to know for sure if you have an STI is to get tested. Many infections do not show symptoms but can still be passed on. Regular sexual health checks and practising safe sex can help protect you and your partners from infection.

If you need STI treatment, you can order discreetly online from UK Meds after a simple online consultation with an independent prescriber.