Symptoms of a sexually transmitted disease (STD)


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Symptoms of a sexually transmitted disease (STD)


Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) may cause many different symptoms in both women and men.

In women

  • A thick, discolored, or foul-smelling vaginal discharge. Symptoms may get worse over a period of several days to 2 weeks.
  • Pain, burning, or itching while urinating for longer than 24 hours
  • Fever
  • Pain during sexual intercourse
  • Pain or a feeling of heaviness in the pelvis or lower abdomen
  • Itching, tingling, burning, or pain in the genitals
  • Sores, lumps, blisters, rashes, or warts on or around the genitals
  • Vaginal spotting or bleeding after sexual intercourse
  • Other symptoms of an infection, such as fever and fatigue or lack of energy

In men

  • Painful urination. (This is often the first symptom.)
  • Fever
  • Cloudy urine
  • Abnormal discharge from the penis
  • Crusting at the tip of the penis
  • Sores, lumps, blisters, rashes, or warts on or around the genitals
  • Pain, swelling, or tenderness in the scrotum (epididymitis)
  • Itching, tingling, pain, or burning of the genitals
  • Deep pelvic ache (prostatitis)

These symptoms require medical attention. Avoid any sexual contact until you have been checked by your health professional.

Credits


Author Jeannette Curtis
Author Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer Patrice Burgess, MD

- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD

- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD

- Family Medicine
Last Updated May 25, 2007

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Last updated: May 25, 2007
Author: Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

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