How to Detect STDs
Sexually transmitted diseases can affect anybody who is sexually active. Whether you are straight, gay, bisexual or transsexual, sexual activities lead to higher probability of acquiring sexually transmitted diseases. Sexual intercourse is considered to be the major triggering factor for sexually transmitted diseases. However, some individuals who may not have had sexual intercourse may also acquire STD through direct skin contact with the infected body part.
There are different types of STDs. Each STD may have specific symptoms and manifestations.
Chlamydia, the most common sexually transmitted disease, is manifested in fluid discharge from the vagina or penis, pain in the testicles for men, irregular menstrual bleeding for women and painful feeling when passing urine. These symptoms usually show up 1 to 3 weeks after exposure.
For pubic lice, the symptoms include itchy skin, inflammation in the infected area, visible lice and eggs and spots of blood. The symptoms of pubic lice usually show up 5 to 7 weeks after infection.
The common symptoms of gonorrhea include burning sensation when urinating, yellowish or bloody discharge from the penis, unusual vaginal discharge and anal irritation and discharge. These signs of gonorrhea appear 1 to 14 days from exposure.
Herpes has symptoms that appear 2 to 7 days after the first exposure to the virus. A person with herpes experiences itching or tingling sensations in the genital or anal area, small blisters with fluid, small and painful sores, pain when passing urine, headaches, backaches and flu-like symptoms such as swollen glands and fever.
About 10 days to six weeks after exposure, the symptoms of syphilis usually appear. You may be suffering from syphilis if you experience the following symptoms: swollen glands, small lumps in the groin, non-itchy rash, fever or flu-like symptoms.
Having the aforementioned symptoms may mean that you have a sexually transmitted disease. However, they may also mean another type of infection. So before you fret out, bring yourself to STD testing centers such as STD testing San Diego to ensure your wellbeing.
