Sexually Transmitted Diseases: A Guide to Symptoms and Diagnosis
Sexually transmitted diseases or sexually transmitted infections are usually caused by sexual contact.
STDs often include symptoms like unusual discharge, genital sores, pain during urination, itching, or no symptoms at all.
Diagnosis involves physical exams, blood tests, urine samples, and swabs from infected areas, depending on the type of STD.
STDs can affect anyone sexually active, and early detection is key to effective treatment.
In this blog, we’ll cover the most common STD symptoms and how they’re diagnosed.
Also, find out why regular screening is essential for protecting your health and your partner's.
What are sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections spread through sexual contact.
They can be transmitted through all forms of sexual activity.
Some STDs are curable with antibiotics, while others are lifelong.
Symptoms vary—some cause severe issues, while others may show no signs, making detection difficult.
This increases the risk of unknowingly spreading the infection.
There are over 20 types of STDs, including:
- Genital herpes
- HPV
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Syphilis
- HIV/AIDS
- Trichomoniasis
- Pubic lice
What are the symptoms of Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?
STDs often cause mild or no symptoms, so many men may be unaware they're infected, increasing the risk of spreading the disease.
Common STD symptoms include:
- Anal itching, soreness, or bleeding
- Unusual discharge from the penis
- Fever
- Genital sores or warts
- Abdominal pain
- Painful or frequent urination
- Erectile dysfunction
- Mouth blisters or sores
What are the causes of Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?
STDs are caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi that spread through sexual contact.
The transmission of STDs can occur via vaginal, oral, or anal sex, and sometimes through skin-to-skin contact or shared needles.
Some of the Common causes include:
- Bacteria (e.g., chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis)
- Viruses (e.g., HIV, herpes, HPV, hepatitis B)
- Parasites (e.g., trichomoniasis, pubic lice)
- Fungi (rare, but possible in some cases)
Risk increases with unprotected sex, multiple partners, or lack of regular testing.
Find out how STIs can cause ED problems.
How are sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) diagnosed?
In case you are sexually active, it is important to talk to your doctor about your risk of STDs.
You must also ask the doctor whether any tests need to be done.
Getting the tests done on time is vital because most of the time, symptoms of STDs are not known.
A physical exam of a sore or fluid is taken from the male reproductive organ to aid in diagnosing STDs.
However, blood tests can also be quite helpful in diagnosing other types of sexually transmitted diseases.
Explore how doctors test for ED.
Can sexually transmitted diseases be cured?
Sexually transmitted diseases caused by bacteria can be cured easily by using antibiotics.
But some of the sexually transmitted diseases, like herpes and HIV infection, persist for life and cannot be cured.
However, if you get an early diagnosis and follow your doctor’s recommendation, the risk of spreading the infection is decreased.
How to prevent STDs effectively?
Being a man, do you want to decrease the risk of suffering from sexually transmitted diseases?
If yes, then here are a few things you must consider.
Avoid sexual activities
To prevent sexually transmitted diseases, avoid indulging in sexual activities with anyone who has genital sores, discharge, or a rash.
It is safe to have unprotected sexual intercourse only when you and your partner have tested negative for STDs.
Get vaccinated
Getting vaccinated early is one of the most effective ways of avoiding some types of sexually transmitted diseases.
You can also find vaccines that help prevent hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and human papillomavirus.
Use the right protective products.
Whether you plan to indulge in oral, vaginal, or anal sexual acts, it is necessary to use a new latex condom or dental dam.
Don’t try using an oil-based lubricant like petroleum jelly along with a dental dam or latex condom.
Doctors never recommend using condoms made from natural membranes, as they do not prevent STDs effectively.
You must know that the usage of latex condoms decreases men’s risk of exposure to sexually transmitted diseases to a great extent.
Communicate with your partner.
Before planning to be involved in any serious sexual contact, talk to your partner about attempting safe sexual activity.
It is always a good idea to agree on what activities will and won’t be ok for you.
Avoid drinking alcohol and using drugs excessively.
Being a man, if you come across the symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases, then stop consuming alcohol.
Without consulting your doctor, you must not start the consumption of any drug.
Thus, with the right medicines and prevention, STDs in men can be treated.
Final lines:
STDs can pose serious health risks if not treated promptly.
Understanding their types, transmission methods, and symptoms is key to prevention.
Protect yourself by:
- Getting tested regularly
- Using protection during sex
- Avoiding risky behaviours (e.g., sharing needles, multiple partners)
- Communicating openly with your partner about STDs
Awareness and responsible behaviour can greatly reduce the risk of infection.
STD diagnosis starts with reviewing your sexual history and symptoms. A doctor may perform a physical or pelvic exam to check for signs like rashes, warts, or discharge. Also, they may ask for lab tests for confirmation.
STDs are caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites and spread through sexual contact. The transimmsing of STDs involves bodily fluids like semen, vaginal fluids, or blood during vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
No, ED pills like sildenafil do not treat STDs. They only improve erections and do not affect curing or managing sexually transmitted infections.
Yes, condoms are effective in preventing STDs, including HIV, when used correctly. However, they may not fully protect against the spread of STDs through skin-to-skin contact.
Yes, some STDs can lead to inflammation, pain, or nerve damage, which may contribute to ED, especially if left untreated.
Bacterial and parasitic STDs can often be cured with the help of medicines. Viral STDs like herpes or HIV can’t be cured but can be managed to reduce symptoms and transmission risk.