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STIs in men and women: symptoms to look out for

STIs in men and women: symptoms to look out for

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a common health concern that can affect both men and women, often without noticeable symptoms. While some STIs cause discomfort or complications, others are asymptomatic, making regular screening essential. Understanding STI symptoms in men and women can help individuals take proactive steps towards better sexual health.

This article explores common STI symptoms, the importance of early detection, prevention strategies, and how at-home STI testing can offer a convenient way to monitor sexual health.

What are the common STIs?

Sexually transmitted infections are caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites that spread through sexual contact.

Here are some of the most common STIs and what they mean in simple terms:

  • Chlamydia: A bacterial infection that often has no symptoms but can cause pain during urination, unusual discharge, or discomfort in the lower abdomen. It is easily treated with antibiotics.
  • Gonorrhoea: Another bacterial infection that can cause burning during urination, abnormal discharge, and, in some cases, pelvic pain. It can be treated with antibiotics, but early detection is key.
  • HIV: A virus that affects the immune system. While it has no cure, modern treatments allow people with HIV to live long and healthy lives.
  • Syphilis: A bacterial infection that progresses in stages. Early symptoms include painless sores, rashes, and flu-like symptoms. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health issues.
  • Trichomoniasis: A common parasitic infection that can cause itching, discomfort, or discharge. Many people don’t experience symptoms but can still pass it to partners.
  • Genital Herpes: A viral infection that causes painful blisters or sores around the genital area. It can also lead to flu-like symptoms during outbreaks. While there is no cure, antiviral medications can help manage symptoms and reduce transmission risk.

Understanding these infections helps individuals recognise early symptoms and take steps to protect their health.

Common symptoms in men and women

Many STIs share similar symptoms in men and women, but some infections affect each sex differently. Below are key signs to watch out for.

1. Unusual discharge

  • In women: Vaginal discharge may become yellow, green, or foul-smelling, which could indicate chlamydia, gonorrhoea, or trichomoniasis.
  • In men: Discharge from the penis, particularly thick or cloudy fluid, can be a sign of gonorrhoea or chlamydia.

2. Pain during urination

A burning or stinging sensation while urinating is a common STI symptom in both sexes. It can be caused by chlamydia, gonorrhoea, or a urinary tract infection (UTI).

3. Genital itching, redness or sores

  • In women: Genital herpes causes painful blisters, while syphilis can lead to painless sores on the genitals or mouth.
  • In men: Itching or irritation may also be an early symptom of herpes, trichomoniasis, or syphilis.

4. Pelvic or lower abdominal pain

  • In women: Persistent pelvic pain may indicate pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), a serious complication of untreated gonorrhoea or chlamydia.
  • In men: Discomfort in the lower abdomen or testicles may suggest epididymitis, an STI-related condition affecting the reproductive system.

5. Unexplained rashes or skin changes

  • Syphilis can cause a non-itchy rash on the palms, soles, or other body parts.
  • Genital warts, caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), appear as small, flesh-coloured bumps around the genitals.

6. Flu-like symptoms

Some STIs, including HIV and syphilis, can cause fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and muscle aches in their early stages.

7. Pain during sexual intercourse

  • In women: Pain during sex may be due to inflammation from chlamydia, gonorrhoea, or trichomoniasis.
  • In men: STI-related inflammation may cause discomfort during ejaculation or intercourse.

8. Irregular bleeding

  • In women, spotting between periods or post-sex bleeding can indicate an infection such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea.

Many STIs are asymptomatic, meaning they do not show noticeable signs. Therefore, regular STI testing is crucial to ensure early detection and treatment.

The role of at-home testing

At-home STI testing offers a private and convenient alternative to traditional clinic visits, allowing individuals to manage their sexual health discreetly. These tests enable users to collect samples in the comfort of their own homes, reducing potential discomfort or stigma associated with in-person appointments. By facilitating early detection, at-home testing empowers individuals to seek timely treatment, thereby preventing complications and curbing the spread of infections.

MyHealthChecked’s Male Sexual Health Test

Designed for men aged 18 and over, this test screens for chlamydia, gonorrhoea, HIV, and syphilis. The kit includes materials for collecting both a finger-prick blood sample and a urine sample, ensuring thorough analysis. Upon receiving the discreetly packaged kit, users activate it by scanning the provided QR code, collect their samples following the detailed instructions, and send them to MyHealthChecked's UK-based laboratory using a prepaid label. Results are typically available within two to three working days and are reviewed by a GP who provides guidance should any follow-up be required. Importantly, results are confidential and not shared with the user's doctor or recorded on medical records.

MyHealthChecked’s Female Sexual Health Test

Tailored for women aged 18 and over, this test also screens for chlamydia, gonorrhoea, HIV, and syphilis. Similar to the male version, it requires both a finger-prick blood sample and a urine sample. The process involves activating the test via a QR code, collecting the samples at home, and sending them to the UK-based lab with the provided prepaid label. Results are available within two to three working days, accompanied by GP-reviewed advice. As with the male test, results remain confidential and are not shared with healthcare providers or added to medical records.

Regular testing is a responsible approach to sexual health, enabling early detection and treatment of STIs. MyHealthChecked's at-home tests offer a discreet, convenient, and reliable method for individuals to stay informed and proactive about their sexual wellbeing.

In summary

Recognising STI symptoms in men and women is crucial for early treatment and prevention of complications. Many infections are asymptomatic, making routine testing essential. Safe sex practices, regular screenings, and at-home STI testing allow individuals to take control of their sexual health conveniently.

Reviewed by Dr Gavin Ralston

References

1. British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH).Sexually transmitted infections in primary care. 2013. Available from: https://www.bashh.org/_userfiles/pages/files/sexuallytransmittedinfectionsinprimarycare2013.pdf

2. McDonagh L, Saunders J, Smith H.Pre-exposure prophylaxis and primary care. Br J Gen Pract. 2020 Sep;70(697):409. Available from: https://bjgp.org/content/70/697/409

3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).Sexually transmitted infections treatment guidelines, 2021. 2021 Jul. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment-guidelines/STI-Guidelines-2021.pdf

4. UpToDate.Vaginitis in adults: initial evaluation. 2023. Available from: https://www.uptodate.com/contents/vaginitis-in-adults-initial-evaluation

5. UpToDate.Patient education: Genital herpes (Beyond the Basics). 2024. Available from: https://www.uptodate.com/contents/genital-herpes-beyond-the-basics

6. UpToDate.Prevention of sexually transmitted infections. 2024 Sep. Available from: https://www.uptodate.com/contents/prevention-of-sexually-transmitted-infections

7. UpToDate.Patient education: Gonorrhea (Beyond the Basics). 2024 Oct. Available from: https://www.uptodate.com/contents/gonorrhea-beyond-the-basics

8. UpToDate.Patient education: Chlamydia (Beyond the Basics). 2024 Oct. Available from: https://www.uptodate.com/contents/chlamydia-beyond-the-basics

9. UpToDate.Sexually transmitted infections: Issues specific to adolescents. 2024 Dec. Available from: https://www.uptodate.com/contents/sexually-transmitted-infections-issues-specific-to-adolescents

10. UpToDate.Screening for sexually transmitted infections. 2025 Jan. Available from: https://www.uptodate.com/contents/screening-for-sexually-transmitted-infections