What is an STI? Types and Symptoms

The moniker STI stands for Sexually Transmitted Infections and is sometimes also referred to as STD or Sexually Transmitted Diseases – these are one and the same thing.   Pearl Chemist Group offer diagnostic testing for all the main STIs as part of our Sexual Health Services in Wandsworth.

What are the main Sexually Transmitted Diseases?
A Sexually Transmitted Infection is an infection passed from one person to another via sexual contact.  Bacteria, virus or a parasite will enter and grow in or on the receiving body.  Here are some of the main STIs?

  • Chlamydia
  • Gonorrhoea
  • Trichomoniasis
  • Genital warts
  • Genital herpes
  • Pubic lice
  • Scabies
  • Syphilis

What are the symptoms of Sexually Transmitted Infections?
There are symptoms which are quite common to several of these diseases and they include:-

  • An unusual discharge from the vagina or penis
  • Discomfort or pain when urinating
  • Lumps or skin growths around the genitals or anus
  • A rash
  • Itchy genitals or anus
  • Unusual vaginal bleeding
  • Blisters and sores around the anus or the genitals

Many STIs have only mild symptoms and without testing, it would be impossible to know which one you have; sometimes the symptoms can be mistaken for something else such as a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) or a yeast infection (thrush).  Often people don’t experience any symptoms at all which is why it is easy to spread STIs inadvertently.

Treatment for STIs
Treatment centres wholly on the correct identification of the exact infection.  Partners who may be symptomless should be tested and treated for infection as well.

Why go to a Sexual Health Clinic?
You can often obtain an appointment more quickly via Sexual Health Services than going through your GP surgery.  Many clinics offer drop-in services as well as pre-booked appointments.  Results are pretty quick and you can disguise your real identity if you want to.  For rapid and confidential diagnosis, contact our Sexual Health Services in Wandsworth, there is more information on the website https://www.pearlchemistgroup.co.uk/