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Sexually Transmitted Infections can be contracted through various sexual activities, and have symptoms ranging in severity to none at all.
Many of the common symptoms for STIs overlap with symptoms of other medical conditions so it is important to consult with your trusted BetterMedical doctor if you are experiencing STI symptoms or practising unsafe sexual activities. Completing frequent STI tests can help limit the spread and treatment of STIs as many of the symptoms are mild and can go unnoticed.
Chlamydia
Often, people will not be aware they have chlamydia, making it one of the most common STIs. Performing frequent sexual health tests can help prevent the spread and assure it is treated early to avoid any complications. Chlamydia symptoms can be both severe and mild, and can often go unnoticed or assumed to be something else. They can also take several weeks to arise following the initial contraction.
Common Symptoms for Chlamydia:
pain and burning while urinating
pain during sex
lower abdominal pain
abnormal vaginal discharge
bleeding between periods
pus or abnormal discharge from the penis
swollen or tender testicles
pain, discharge and/or bleeding from the anus
Chlamydia can be effectively treated through antibiotics. Book an appointment with your local BetterMedical doctor for tests and treatment options.
Genital Herpes
The symptoms experienced due to Genital Herpes can come and go, however, this does not mean that you are not still infectious. The symptoms can vary in severity or may not be experienced at all. Genital Herpes can be effectively treated but not cured. By consulting your BetterMedical doctor, they can help you manage outbreaks and reduce the severity of your infection.
Common Genital Herpes Symptoms:
flu-like symptoms
small blisters around the genitals, anus, inner thigh, and mouth (do not have sex while sores or blisters are present)
small cracks in the skin
redness or rash
painful urination due to urine touching the blisters near the genitals.
Genital Herpes treatment can majorly improve your experience. Book an appointment with your local BetterMedical Doctor for tests or treatment.
Gonorrhoea
Gonorrhoea has various symptoms, ranging in severity. It can be treated with antibiotics, unless it's a resistant strain. Your BetterMedical GP will know what to prescribe based on current treatment guidelines.
Common Gonorrhoea Symptoms:
pain or burning when urinating
abnormal discharge from vagina that may be yellowish or bloody
bleeding between periods
yellow, white, or green discharge from penis
pain or swelling in testicles
itching in or around anus
discharge from anus
Important Note: untreated Gonorrhoea can cause infertility in women
Book an appointment with your local BetterMedical Doctor for tests or treatment.
Syphilis
The symptoms of syphilis can be difficult to notice and may come and go over time. Often the signs and symptoms will also depend on the stage of the disease. It is most infectious in the first two stages. The final stage is called the Latent (or hidden stage) where symptoms disappear however it then leads to the tertiary stage of syphilis that can be life threatening. Primary and secondary stages can be easily treated with antibiotics, contact your BetterMedical doctor to consult treatment options. Unfortunately, the damage caused by late syphilis cannot be reversed.
Primary Stage Symptoms may include:
Occurring 10-90 days after infection, the first sign is a painless sore at the sight where the infection entered the body such as the vagina, cervix, mouth, or anus and swollen lymph nodes. Secondary stage usually occurs 7-10 weeks after initial infection. People are very infectious at this point.
Symptoms include:
a red rash
fever
enlarged glands in the armpits and groin
sore throat
hair loss
weight loss
headaches
tiredness
ulcers in the mouth, nasal cavities, or genitals
Book an appointment with your local BetterMedical Doctor for tests or treatment.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B (Hep B) is the most common liver infection in the world, with symptoms dependent on whether the person has acute or chronic Hepatitis B infection. Many people with acute hepatitis (during first 6 months after infection) do not experience symptoms.
Hep B can be treated but not cured. The course of treatment depends on the severity of liver damage, however, the most common course of treatment is anti-viral tablets taken daily for a year or more. Your Doctor will be able to recommend the treatment options for you.
Symptoms can include:
loss of appetite
nausea and vomiting
tiredness
abdominal pain
muscle and joint pain
jaundice (yellowish eyes and skin, dark coloured urine, and pale coloured faeces)
Important Note: Chronic hepatitis can be fatal.
Book an appointment with your local BetterMedical Doctor for tests or treatment.
HIV
During the first 2-4 weeks after being infected, you may feel feverish, achy, and sick, however, following this stage, these symptoms can then disappear. The person can look and feel totally healthy despite being infectious. It is important to get tested regularly if you have had unprotected sex to receive a diagnosis and treatment plan.
A HIV positive person who is on treatment can live a long and healthy life. They can also continue to have sex with no risk of passing on the disease if they are on adequate treatment.
Book an appointment with your local BetterMedical Doctor for tests or treatment.
STI Tests Near Me
We recommend completing regular STI tests if you are sexually active, to ensure the health of yourself and your partner/s. Contact your local BetterMedical clinic to discuss your options with your trusted doctor.
