STI warning signs to not ignore
If you're sexually active then you're at risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Sometimes STIs may not present through any warning symptoms. In many other cases, people fail to recognize the warning signs.
If you're sexually active and notice something feels off, it could be an STI symptom. Consult your gynecologist for proper diagnosis.
Here are some of the most common STI symptoms in people assigned female at birth.
Burning or itching of the vagina
This uncomfortable sensation of the vagina, also known as vaginitis, can be caused by a yeast infection. However, STIs such as trichomoniasis can also cause vaginitis. Risk factors of getting infected with this STI include multiple sexual partners and not using condoms during sex.
Pelvic pain
STIs such as chlamydia and gonorrhea cause pelvic pain. These infections can affect the vagina and also spread to the uterus and fallopian tubes, causing pelvic pain.
If left untreated, these infections can increase your risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID is an infection of the uterus and fallopian tubes which can cause symptoms such as lower abdominal pain.
Unusual vaginal discharge
Unusual vaginal discharge such as that accompanied with itching, redness, swelling, pelvic pain, or a strong smell may be due to an STI. Possible infections include trich, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. You may also notice blood in your discharge. Abnormal discharge is linked to inflammation. When bacteria infects your reproductive tract, you may experience irritation and an unusual discharge.
Bumps on and around your vagina
Bump, sore or wart may signify several STIs, even if it goes away in a few days. Certain strains of HPV can cause flesh-colored genital warts. These warts can be flat, bumpy and look like cauliflower. In some cases, genital warts are so small that you may not be able to notice them. Herpes can have flares of small red blisters that may come and go.
Read more: Signs in a man’s private area that can indicate STIs
Spotting not related to periods
Bleeding even when you are not on your periods or bleeding after sex could be a sign of STI. Human papillomavirus (HPV) can affect your cervix, which can cause bleeding after sex. Inflammation in your reproductive tract caused by STI can irritate the mucus membranes of your vagina, leading to bleeding.
Bleeding caused by STI tends to be described as spotting, unlike the large amount of blood one notices during periods.
Read more: Leaking urine is not the only sign of weak bladder; 5 more surprising symptoms of Urinary incontinence
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