What Are the Most Common Symptoms of STIs and STDs?

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), also known as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), are more common than many people think. In fact, millions of new cases occur each year in the United States alone. One of the biggest challenges with STIs is that many people who are infected don’t show any symptoms—making regular testing a vital part of protecting your health and your partner’s.

In this post, we’ll walk you through the most common symptoms of STIs and STDs, when to get tested, and what to do if you’re experiencing any of these signs.

Common Symptoms of STIs and STDs

While symptoms vary depending on the specific infection, here are some of the most frequently reported signs to watch out for:

1. Unusual Discharge

• Women: Thick, yellow, green, or foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
  
• Men: Cloudy, white, or yellow discharge from the penis.
  

Unusual discharge is a common symptom of infections like Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, or Trichomoniasis.

2. Burning or Pain During Urination

A sharp, burning sensation when urinating could signal a urinary tract infection, but it’s also a symptom of Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, or Herpes.

3. Genital Itching or Irritation

Persistent itching, redness, or swelling in the genital area could be linked to Pubic Lice, Scabies, or Trichomoniasis.

4. Sores, Bumps, or Blisters

• Herpes causes painful sores or blisters around the genitals or mouth.
  
• Syphilis often begins with a single, painless sore called a chancre.
  

Any unexplained bump, sore, or blister should be checked by a healthcare provider right away.

5. Pain During Sex

Painful intercourse can be a sign of several STIs, especially Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) caused by untreated Chlamydia or Gonorrhea in women.

6. Lower Abdominal or Pelvic Pain

Ongoing pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis could indicate a progressing STI or PID. This is especially concerning if accompanied by other symptoms like fever or nausea.

 7. Swollen Lymph Nodes

Swollen glands in the neck, groin, or armpits can occur with infections like HIV, Syphilis, or Herpes.

 8. Flu-Like Symptoms

Fever, fatigue, headaches, and muscle aches may appear with early-stage HIV, Hepatitis B, or Syphilis.

9. Unusual Spotting or Bleeding

Spotting between periods or bleeding after sex could be a warning sign of an STI, especially Chlamydia or Gonorrhea.

What If You Have No Symptoms?

Here’s the tricky part: many STIs show no symptoms at all, especially in the early stages. You or your partner could carry an infection without even knowing it. That’s why routine STI screening is essential—even if you feel perfectly fine.

When Should You Get Tested?

You should consider testing if:

• You have a new sexual partner
  
• You’ve had unprotected sex
  
• You or your partner have multiple partners
  
• You experience any of the symptoms above
  
• You’re planning to get pregnant or are already pregnant
  

Get Tested & Treated Early

Early detection is key to preventing complications like infertility, chronic pain, or further transmission. Most STIs can be treated easily with antibiotics or antiviral medications if caught early.

Where to Get Tested

At Advanced STD Testing & Treatment Clinic, we offer:

• Same-day testing & treatment
  
• Confidential consultations
  
• CLIA-certified labs
  
• Walk-in availability
  
• Private, judgment-free care
  

📍 Visit Us: 6306 Gulfton St STE D, Houston, TX 77081
📞 Call: (346) 344-8313
🕒 Hours: Monday – Friday: 9 AM – 5 PM, Saturday: 9 AM – 3 PM

Final Thoughts

Knowing the most common symptoms of STIs can help you take quick action to protect your health. But remember: symptom-free doesn’t mean infection-free. Regular screening is your best defense.

Take charge of your health today. If you’re unsure, concerned, or just due for a test—Advanced STD Testing & Treatment Clinic is here for you.