Could You Have An STI?

Could you have an STI? In 2014, there were 440,000 diagnosed STIs made in England alone, with almost half of these cases being chlamydia. There was also a 46% increase in Syphilis. Scary, huh? If you have had unprotected sex you could have an STI.

                                                  High Statistics (Image: Wikipedia)

Unfortunately, Chlamydia can be symptomless until the latent stages. That said, there are certain signs to look out for. Ignoring the warning signs can lead to infertility and other health problems, including the degeneration of mental health. Read on to find out the signs of the two most common STIs and the treatment available.

1.Chlamydia

                                        Quite a Selection (Image: Wikipedia)

Chlamydia is an infection that is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis that spreads quickly, and if left untreated, it can lead to infertility. It can be transmitted by anal, oral, and vaginal sex. It is known as a silent infection, due to its ability to go symptomless in some people.

                                Pap Smear Showing Chlamydia (Image: Wikipedia)

However, once diagnosed, Chlamydia can be easily cured with antibiotics. For women the symptoms of this infection can be: A vaginal discharge, bleeding during or after intercourse and a stinging sensation during urination. For men the signs can be: a discharge and uncomfortable feeling in the sandbags (testicles). If you think you might have this STI, visit your local GUM clinic.

2.Syphilis

As this one seems to be on the rise considerably, we thought this particularly savage STI would be worth a mention. Syphilis is a bacterial infection that is usually caused by having sex with an infected person. The bacterium is called Treponema pallidum and can be contracted through close contact with an infected sore. This would include anal, oral, or vaginal sex, and also sharing sex toys with an infected partner. Additionally, drug users who share needles are also at risk from infection. The image is incredibly disturbing and we advise you see photos online

                             Could it be You? (Image: naturalhealingnews.com)

With so many STI diseases out there, it is advisable that those who have multiple partners and do not use protection during sex should definitely get tested regularly.

And unlike Chlamydia, Syphilis comes with an array of ugly symptoms. The first is an infectious but painless sore, usually located on the genitals or mouth. The second is a sore throat and rash. Lastly, once a person has been infected for years, Syphilis causes a torrent of damage to the body and brain. The STI can be treated with antibiotics. However, left untreated, it will cause an array of symptoms, and eventually death. If that doesn’t push you to remember a condom, nothing will!