We often hear terms like sexually transmitted infections, syphilis, or gonorrhoea, but we rarely know exactly how these infections manifest in our bodies. So, in this blog post, we want to share what you need to know to identify these infections if they do show symptoms.
It’s important to bear in mind that you can have any of these infections without knowing it – either because they can be asymptomatic (showing no symptoms) or because the symptoms are so mild that they go unnoticed. Therefore, if you’ve had unprotected sex, the only way to rule out having an STI is by taking an STI test.
That said, here are a few key signs to help guide you and seek medical advice if you notice any of these symptoms.
Symptoms of Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Mycoplasma Genitalium or Trichomoniasis
These infections can be present in multiple areas at the same time – including the throat, genitals, and rectum – and may cause symptoms in all of them, in none of them, or only in some areas but not others.
Symptoms in the Penis
These typically present as urethritis, which means a burning sensation when urinating. Sometimes this may be accompanied by a whitish discharge from the urethra. Other symptoms may include an increased urge to urinate or testicular discomfort, among others.
Symptoms in the Vagina
Most cases are asymptomatic, but when symptoms do appear, they commonly include increased or unusual vaginal discharge, pain during vaginal intercourse, and bleeding outside of the menstrual period. Lower abdominal pain or discomfort may also occur, which should be assessed as soon as possible to rule out Pelvic Inflammatory Disease.
Symptoms in the Rectum
Common symptoms include pain, a feeling of fullness without needing to pass stool, and the presence of blood, mucus or pus.
Symptoms in the Throat (Pharynx)
Most people do not experience any symptoms, but when they do, it can resemble pharyngitis, with a sore, irritated or uncomfortable throat. Swollen glands or fever are rare.
Symptoms of Syphilis
Syphilis symptoms occur in several stages:
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- The first sign of syphilis is usually the well-known chancre – a sore or ulcer that appears at the site of infection, and typically does not cause pain. This lesion can remain on your body for several weeks and then disappear on its own without treatment, but that doesn’t mean the infection has gone away.
- Following this stage, there is often a period of latency – a sort of pause – during which there are no symptoms, but the infection remains active in the body. If detected at this stage, it is referred to as early latent syphilis.
- Next comes secondary syphilis, whose most common symptom is a widespread rash – often appearing as flat or slightly raised spots – mainly affecting the torso (chest and back), as well as the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. This phase may also resolve spontaneously, but the infection still persists.
- After this, another asymptomatic stage can occur, known as late latent syphilis.
- Finally, years after the initial infection, syphilis can progress to a stage affecting the nervous system, heart, or lungs – known as neurosyphilis.
Symptoms of HIV
It’s important to understand that, generally speaking – except in very severe cases – HIV doesn’t have specific symptoms of its own. There’s nothing in particular that would typically lead a doctor to think, “this is definitely HIV”. Instead, it’s usually a combination of signs and factors that might suggest the diagnosis.
In most cases, especially in the majority of diagnoses we make, people do not present any clear or specific symptoms.
If symptoms do appear during the primary infection stage (that is, a few weeks to a month after contracting the virus), it may present as acute retroviral syndrome – which is very similar to other mild viral illnesses or infectious mononucleosis – with the following symptoms:
- Fever
- Swollen lymph nodes
- General malaise and fatigue
- Severe sore throat
- Joint pain
- Some rashes
- Etc.
However, it’s important to note that most people who experience these symptoms do not have HIV.
Symptoms that develop later on, once the infection has become established, are due to opportunistic infections, which occur because the immune system becomes weakened. These symptoms vary greatly and are difficult to define precisely.
Symptoms of Genital Herpes
Genital herpes presents as small blisters (vesicles) at the site of contact, which are usually very painful, sensitive, or cause intense itching. These lesions typically clear up on their own within one or two weeks.
It is very common to experience recurrent outbreaks throughout life, as the Herpes Simplex Virus remains dormant in your nerve ganglia permanently.
Symptoms of Molluscum Contagiosum
Molluscum contagiosum appears as small, pearl-like or shiny bumps (papules) in the genital area. They usually do not cause pain or itching. While they tend not to be particularly uncomfortable, they can spread easily and are highly contagious.
Symptoms of Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
Here, we’ll focus only on its most common benign manifestation: the well-known genital wart (although it can appear on any part of the body).
Most other symptoms of HPV are usually silent or do not appear at all.
Conclusion on the Most Common STI Symptoms
Remember that not all sexually transmitted infections present symptoms, and not all symptoms are necessarily due to an STI. The key is to assess each case in its context, consider any risky practices, seek medical advice, and carry out the appropriate tests.
At Open House, we offer the most accurate and rapid STI tests available, allowing you to complete a full screening in just two hours. You can come in for testing even if you’ve had unprotected sex and don’t have any symptoms. However, if you are experiencing any of the symptoms described in this blog post, our specialist doctors are the best people to guide you and recommend the tests you need. Whether you visit our clinics in Madrid or Valencia, our partner medical centre in Málaga, or use our remote sexual health services, Open House is the ideal choice to help put your mind at ease.
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Dra. Julieta Domingorena Córdoba