7 Signs you may have an STI

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Is it itching, burning or full of blisters down there? If it is, you may have an STI of some sort. Having an STI can be a little embarrassing, but make no mistake; STIs are a serious health risk if they’re left untreated.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) like Chlamydia, Genital Herpes, HIV, Gonorrhoea, Syphilis, Trichomonas, Crabs (pubic lice) etc. are infections spread through skin-to-skin contact during sexual contact.

Signs and symptoms of an STI

  1. It pains when you pee
  2. It is sore when you have sex
  3. You have sores or bumps on your private parts or near your mouth
  4. You private parts are itchy and there is swelling
  5. There is a bad smell or discharge coming from your vagina
  6. Your periods are not normal
  7. You are suddenly burning up with fever and feeling unwell

Risks of STIs

STIs infect both men and women at any age and you can get them from any type of sexual contact including anal or oral sex. You might not even know you have an STI, as sometimes an STI doesn’t present any symptoms right away. Firstly, if you are having sex, always use a condom to protect yourself against STIs and pregnancy. Not having sex means you limit your risk of catching an STI. Whatever you do, do not ignore your STI symptoms. STIs are a danger to your health. If left untreated, they can cause many problems like preventing you from having children or in the case of HIV – you can get really sick.

What to do if you suspect you may have an STI

If you suspect that you or your partner have an STI– you need to visit a doctor immediately. The doctor will be able to identify the STI and offer you the appropriate treatment. You can also test for HIV, and get help if you are HIV-infected.

Remember to use a condom, every time you have sex to protect yourself and your sexual partner against STIs and/or pregnancy.

Visit hi4LIFE to learn more about STIs.

Remember if you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).

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