Symptoms of an STI

Different infections can have different symptoms, but it's important to be able to detect when something isn't right. Symptoms include:

- Itching and burning in the genital or mouth area

- Odor, abnormal discharge or bleeding from the genitals

- Bumps, warts and sores on the genitals

Unfortunately, STIs can lay dormant or present themselves under the symptoms of a common fever, so it's important to rely on regular testing to determine if you have an STI.

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9138-sexually-transmitted-diseases--infections-stds--stis#symptoms-and-causes

More Specifically

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is the most common STI in the Houston area, and is also the most undetectable. Most cases of chlamydia show no symptoms and can only be detected through STI testing, however symptoms can present as pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding or abnormal discharge. When left untreated, chlamydia can lead to damage to the reproductive organs.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is a curable STI which is often presented along with chlamydia. Symptoms include painful urination, inflammation in the pelvis, and a sore throat, however can also have no symptoms. When left untreated, gonorrhea can lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), infertility, and can be passed on from infected mother to fetus.

Syphilis

Syphilis is the fastest growing STI in Houston. Symptoms include sores, rashes and organ damage, however cases can also present without any symptoms. When left untreated, syphilis can lead to organ and nervous system damage.

HIV

Houston is one of the most HIV burdened cities in the United States. Symptoms include fever, sore-throat and other flu-like symptoms, but can also be asymptomatic. When left untreated, HIV can potentially develop into acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

HPV

HPV is the most common STI, and heavily impacts Houston. Symptoms include warts on the genital area and also in the mouth. When left untreated HPV can develop into cancers like cervical, anal and orphogeneal (mouth) cancer.