Understanding STDs -- Symptoms

STDs often are silent, meaning there are no symptoms. Especially if you are a woman, you may not notice any symptoms until you have developed serious complications. Be on the lookout for:

• A drip or discharge from the penis, urethra, vagina or anus. The color may be white, yellow, green or gray. The discharge may be blood-streaked and it may or may not have a strong odor.
• Genital and/or anal itching or irritation.
• A rash, blisters, sores, lumps, bumps or warts on or around the genitals, anus, or mouth.
• Burning or pain during urination.
• Swollen lymph glands in the groin.
• Pain in the groin or lower belly.
• Vaginal bleeding.
• Pain or swelling of the testicles.
• Swelling or redness of the vagina.
• Weight loss, loose stools, night sweats.
• Flu-like symptoms (such as aches and pains, fevers, and chills).
• Painful sex.
• Yellowing of the skin (jaundice).
• Bleeding from the vagina other than during a monthly period.

Call Your Doctor If:

You must see a doctor if you have any of the symptoms listed above. DO NOT have any kind of sex with anyone until you see a doctor. Don't wait to get help. Sexually transmitted diseases are very contagious. They may result in serious complications or death if left untreated.

If one of your current or former sex partners tells you they have or had an STD, see a doctor. Even if you don't have symptoms, you may have the disease.