The Most Common STDs: Symptoms, Testing, and Treatment

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are common infections that are spread through sexual contact. Some STDs can cause serious health problems if left untreated, so it’s important to get tested regularly and to practice safe sex. In this article, we’ll discuss the most common STDs, their symptoms, testing, and treatment options.

1. Chlamydia

Chlamydia is one of the most common STDs in the United States. It’s caused by a bacterial infection that is spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Many people with chlamydia have no symptoms, but some may experience:

• Pain or burning during urination
• Abnormal discharge from the vagina or penis
• Pain or bleeding during sex
• Lower abdominal pain

Chlamydia can be easily treated with antibiotics. It’s important to get tested regularly, especially if you are sexually active with multiple partners or have a new partner.

2. Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is another common bacterial STD that can cause serious health problems if left untreated. It’s spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Some people with gonorrhea have no symptoms, but others may experience:

• Pain or burning during urination
• Abnormal discharge from the vagina or penis
• Pain or bleeding during sex
• Lower abdominal pain
• Fever
• Spotting between periods

Gonorrhea can be easily treated with antibiotics, but it’s important to get tested regularly, especially if you have multiple sexual partners.

3. HPV

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common viral STD that can cause genital warts and certain types of cancer. It’s spread through skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Many people with HPV have no symptoms, but some may experience:

• Genital warts
• Abnormal Pap test results
• Cervical cancer (in women)
• Anal cancer (in men and women)

There is no cure for HPV, but there are vaccines that can help prevent certain strains of the virus. Regular Pap tests are important for detecting abnormal cell changes in women, and anal Pap tests can be done for men and women who have anal sex.

4. Herpes

Herpes is a viral STD that can cause painful sores or blisters on the genitals or mouth. It’s spread through skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Some people with herpes have no symptoms, but others may experience:

• Painful sores or blisters on the genitals or mouth
• Itching or burning before the sores appear
• Flu-like symptoms
• Tingling or itching around the genitals or mouth

There is no cure for herpes, but antiviral medication can help manage outbreaks and reduce the risk of transmission. It’s important to practice safe sex and avoid sexual contact during outbreaks to prevent spreading the virus.

5. Syphilis

Syphilis is a bacterial STD that can cause serious health problems if left untreated. It’s spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Syphilis has several stages, and the symptoms can vary depending on the stage. Some common symptoms include:

• Sores or rashes on the genitals, anus, or mouth
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Joint pain

Syphilis can be easily treated with antibiotics, but it’s important to get tested regularly, especially if you have multiple sexual partners.

Conclusion

STDs are a common health concern for sexually active individuals. It’s important to get tested regularly and to practice safe sex to prevent the spread of STDs. Nao Medical in NYC offers comprehensive STD testing and treatment options to help you protect your sexual health. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

FAQs

Q: How often should I get tested for STDs?

A: It’s recommended to get tested for STDs at least once a year if you are sexually active, or more often if you have multiple sexual partners or engage in unprotected sex.

Q: Can I get an STD from oral sex?

A: Yes, many STDs can be spread through oral sex, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, and syphilis.

Q: What should I do if I think I have an STD?

A: It’s important to get tested as soon as possible if you think you have an STD. Contact Nao Medical in NYC to schedule an appointment for testing and treatment.

Q: Can STDs be cured?

A: Some STDs can be cured with antibiotics, but others, like herpes and HPV, have no cure but can be managed with medication.