When you have sex and enjoy it so much, you will feel like having it every day. Sexual intercourse is a way of bonding with your partner and getting more intimate. However, it could leave a sour taste in your mouth if you engage in unprotected sex. One of the consequences is STIs.
But who says you can’t nipped STIs in the bud?
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are primarily passed to the other person when you engage in unprotected sex. The infection could also be passed on during pregnancy, breastfeeding, childbirth, and through contaminated blood products or blood.
STIs have their impacts. If left untreated, they can have serious consequences, including neurological and cardiovascular disease, ectopic pregnancy, infertility, stillbirths, and an increased risk of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). They are also linked to stigma and domestic violence and can hurt one’s quality of life.
The vast majority of STIs are asymptomatic. Common STI symptoms include vaginal or urethral discharge, lower abdominal pain and genital ulcers.
If you have had unprotected sex recently, the rule of thumb is to get tested or, better still, buy a STD test kit.
Some common STIs
Let’s discuss a few of the common STIs out there. We will be focusing on Chlamydia and gonorrhoea.
Chlamydia and gonorrhoea are both bacteria-based sexually transmitted infections. They can be transmitted via oral, genital, or anal sex.
Because the symptoms of these two STIs overlap, it can be difficult to tell which one you have unless you have a Chlamydia and gonorrhoea test at a doctor’s office.
Some people with Chlamydia or gonorrhoea may not experience any symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, there are some similarities, such as an abnormal, foul-smelling discharge from the penis or vagina or a burning sensation when peeing.
How similar are the Symptoms?
Both men and women can be infected with Chlamydia or gonorrhoea and not show any symptoms. Symptoms of Chlamydia may not appear for several weeks after you’ve contracted the infection. And in the case of gonorrhoea, women may not have any symptoms at all or may only have mild symptoms, whereas men are more likely to have more severe symptoms.
But you can do a lot to help yourself. For example, when you start having some of these symptoms, you can help yourself with an STD test kit to ascertain your true status.
Some of the most noticeable symptoms of these STIs overlap. They are as follows:
- Discolored discharge from the private part
- Burning when peeing
- Discharge from the rectum
- Bleeding from the rectum
If you have oral sex with someone who has one of these conditions, you may develop symptoms that affect your throat. This can result in symptoms in the mouth and throat.
If you’re not so sure about the symptoms you are feeling, do a Chlamydia and gonorrhoea test immediately.
