Symptoms are tricky to interpret. Does your headache mean you’re dehydrated, stressed, or dealing with poor vision? It’s tempting to ignore symptoms and just hope they disappear, but the following five symptoms definitely need your attention since they could signal an STD.
Continual Vaginal Itching
Itches happen from time to time, but it isn’t normal to feel ongoing itching inside your vagina. If your itching becomes incessant and overwhelming, it could indicate a yeast infection… or it could indicate an STD like chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, or trichomoniasis. It is even more likely to be an STD if the itching is paired with any of the symptoms below.
Pain with Urination
Painful burning sensations during urination are usually associated with urinary tract infections, but they also occur with most STDs. It can be difficult to determine the actual cause without a urine test. The bacteria that infects the vagina during a UTI also creeps into the urethra after an STD develops.
Abnormal Discharge
Discharge with distinct color and odor is a hallmark of most STDs. While clear and light discharge is fairly normal, yellow, green, chunky, or foul-smelling discharge can indicate an STD like gonorrhea, chlamydia, or trichomoniasis.
Pelvic Discomfort
If your entire pelvic region hurts and feels inflamed, an STD could be to blame. This pain goes beyond normal menstrual discomfort and indicates that microbes are trying to damage your organs. Immediate treatment is the best resolution.
If you can relate to more than one of these symptoms, you could have an STD. Be sure to take an STD urine test to determine what condition you need to treat. The sooner you begin tackling your symptoms, the sooner you can feel better.
