What do I do if I have a sexually transmitted infection (STI)?

STIs have symptoms that cannot go unnoticed:

• Itching, burning, and tingling in the genital and anal areas;
• Urinary discomfort or difficulty in urination;
• Pain during urination;
• Pain and burning during sexual intercourse;
• Blisters, sores, growths, rashes on the pubis, genitals, or anal area;
• Redness and spots of unknown origin in the groin area;
• Various atypical discharge from the genitals;
• The appearance of an atypical, strange, or unpleasant odor from the genitals.

Sexually transmitted infections do not cure themselves. If you don't have any apparent symptoms after a while, it may not be a cure but rather a latent or chronic form of the disease. You can only do it with a doctor and medication. The main danger of STIs is their latent course. Some diseases manifest themselves only after six months, others after several years, and are detected during routine checkups and tests. The earlier they are detected, the more likely they will be cured soon without consequences for the body.

Plan of action if "it's red and itchy."

• Do not self-medicate! The easiest thing to do is to look on the internet, read forums and buy some ointment. Such actions have consequences: the disease turns into a more severe form or becomes chronic.
• The only proper solution, in the case of any symptoms of STI, is to see a doctor - a urologist or a dermatovenerologist.
• Take all the tests prescribed by the doctor and follow his recommendations.
• For the duration of treatment, refrain from sexual intercourse. It is essential not only for your health but also for your partner's health. Condoms, in this case, do not guarantee protection against transmission of the virus or infection. Biological fluids are excreted even before a condom is put on.
• Inform your current or past partner about the disease. We will tell you how to report it gently and correctly next time.