Common STD Symptoms

While STD symptoms vary from disease to disease, there are some common things you can watch for if you suspect you have been exposed to a sexually transmitted disease. These symptoms include sores, blisters, warts, or swelling in the genital area; pain in the lower abdomen (women) or testicles (men); burning while urinating; or flu-like symptoms such as swollen glands or a fever.

While these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have been infected with an STD, you should be aware of them, especially if you have recently had unprotected sex or sex with a new partner.

Less Common STD Symptoms

Some sexually transmitted diseases have less common symptoms. Watch for any discharges from the vagina (women) or penis (men), rashes on the palms of your hands or soles of your feet, unusually dark urine or yellow eyes and skin, unusual fatigue, night sweats, or sudden weight loss.

If You Have STD Symptoms

If you have any STD symptoms, or are concerned that you may have been exposed to a sexually transmitted disease, you should see a doctor. Early detection is important for successful treatment in many cases, and complications of some STDs can become serious if a diagnosis is not made and treatment begun. Testing for STDs is relatively easy and usually only requires a urine sample, blood sample, or skin swab. In some cases your doctor may be able to tell if you have a sexually transmitted disease just by looking at any active sores or lesions you may have.

To prevent spreading STDs, you should tell your sexual partners that you have an STD, and ask if they have been tested. Additionally, being able to recognize STD symptoms in others may help if you are not sure whether or not your partner is being truthful about their health.