Many people with sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have no symptoms
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites that can be passed from one person to another during sex or intimate contact
Most STIs are passed between sexual partners through unprotected oral, vaginal or anal sex – especially if you don’t use a condom
It is a good idea to get tested, significantly if you have recently changed partners
The only way to know if you have an infection is to have an STI test. Most diseases can be cured
It can take time for some STIs to show up in tests – learn when STIs show up difficulties before you take one
If you are diagnosed with an STI, you should avoid having sex with anyone until you have completed treatment
If you do have sex, the infection could be passed to your sexual partner.
General symptoms
STI symptoms vary from obvious itchiness, soreness, rashes or redness, to pain when passing urine, discharge from the penis or vagina, and lumps or sores on the genitals. Some symptoms may also be internal – for example, pain inside your stomach or groin.
Sometimes you will get no symptoms at all, or the symptoms will take a long time to show. This means you could be passing infections on to other people without knowing it.
The only way to know you have an infection is to have an STI test.
Have I got an STI?
Many people with sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have no symptoms.
STIs can pass from one person to another during sex, especially if you don’t use a condom.
It is a good idea to get tested, especially if you have recently changed partners. Most infections can be cured.
It can take time for some STIs to show up in tests.
Why should you go to a sexual health clinic?
You can see a GP, but they’ll probably refer you to a sexual health clinic if they think you may have an STI.
Sexual health clinics treat problems with the genitals and urine system. You can ask to see a female or male doctor or nurse if you wish.
I have been a patient of GMC for 30 years. So has my family. For me they are the only health professionals that I would go to. The quality of professional service is very highest and on more than one occasion, the diagnosis and advice I receive has been life altering. I wouldn’t use anyone else.
- James Berry, Patient
I have been attending the GMC clinic as a patient since 1986 and especially Dr Ralph Joyce and in that time, totally relied on them for all my medical requirements . I trust totally their professionalism, approach and advice and they are always the first contact for any medical needs.
