When it comes to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), symptoms can vary greatly depending on the type of infection. In some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, some common signs of STDs include a discharge from the penis or vagina, pain when urinating, and blisters that take weeks to heal. One of the most serious STDs is herpes simplex virus (HSV).
Unfortunately, there is no known cure for this virus, but its symptoms can be managed with antiviral medications. Vaccines have also been developed since the 1990s to help prevent HSV infections, leading to fewer cases each year. HSV is spread through contact with blood, semen, and body fluids during sexual intercourse. It can also be passed from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth.
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is another serious STD that attacks the liver. It is usually spread through sexual contact or contact with infected blood. Most people with HBV don't have any symptoms, but those who do may experience fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, lack of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. If left untreated, HBV can cause cirrhosis, liver cancer, liver failure, and even death.
Signs of liver damage include dark urine, abdominal pain, and yellowing of the skin or eyes. Another common STD is human papillomavirus (HPV). This virus is spread through vaginal or anal sex and can be transmitted even when an infected person has no symptoms. HPV can cause genital warts and other health effects that can be prevented with vaccines.
Another STD is trichomoniasis, which is caused by a parasite that is spread through sexual contact from the penis or vagina. It mainly affects young women who are sexually active. About 30% of people with this STD have symptoms such as unusual discharge, burning when urinating, or sores in the genital area. If you or someone you know has any symptoms of STDs, it's important to seek medical care right away. Treatment can help prevent problems for your baby if you are pregnant.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also recommends getting tested for HIV if you have ever been treated for STDs.
