Common STDs in Men and Their Symptoms
1. Chlamydia
Transmission: Spread through anal, oral, or vaginal sex with an infected individual.
Common Symptoms:
- Pain or a burning sensation while urinating.
- Penile discharge.
- Swollen or painful testicles.
Note: Many people who contract chlamydia may not exhibit symptoms, but can still spread the infection.
2. Gonorrhea
Transmission: Spread through anal, oral, or vaginal sex with an infected individual.
Common Symptoms:
- Pain or a burning sensation while urinating.
- Green, white, or yellow penile discharge.
- Swollen or painful testicles.
Note: Some individuals with gonorrhea may not show any symptoms but can still transmit the infection.
3. Hepatitis B
Transmission: Spread through contact with the blood or bodily fluids of an infected person, including sexual contact.
Common Symptoms:
- Loss of appetite.
- Fatigue.
- Low-grade fever.
- Muscle and joint pain.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
Note: Even without symptoms, the virus can continue to damage the liver if left untreated.
4. Herpes Simplex
Transmission: Spread through direct contact with the mouth or genitals of an infected person, including sexual intercourse and kissing.
Common Symptoms:
- Small blisters or ulcers on the genital area, anus, or mouth.
- Tingling, itching, or burning sensation in the affected area.
- Pain in the lower back, buttocks, thighs, or knees.
- Swollen lymph nodes in the groin.
- Loss of appetite, fever, and general discomfort.
Note: Some individuals may not experience symptoms but can still transmit the virus.
5. Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
Transmission: Spread through skin-to-skin contact, primarily during anal, oral, or vaginal sex.
Common Symptoms:
- Genital warts (flat and flesh-colored or clusters of small bumps that appear cauliflower-like).
- Warts in the mouth or throat (spread via oral sex).
Note: Most people with HPV will not have symptoms, but some may develop warts or experience complications such as cancers of the anus, throat, or penis.
6. Syphilis
Transmission: Spread through direct contact with syphilis sores (usually on the genitals, anus, or lips).
Symptoms by Stage:
- Primary Syphilis: A small, firm, painless sore where the bacteria entered the body, typically on the penis, anus, or lips. Swollen lymph nodes may also be present.
- Secondary Syphilis: A non-itchy skin rash, often found on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet, along with fatigue, sore throat, headache, and swollen lymph nodes.
- Latent Syphilis: No symptoms but the infection remains in the body.
- Tertiary Syphilis: Rare but severe complications, including damage to the heart, brain, and other organs, can occur if left untreated.
Note: Untreated syphilis can lead to serious complications, even years after transmission.
Prevention Measures
- Safe Sex: Use of condoms or other barrier methods such as dental dams during oral sex to reduce the risk of transmission.
- Regular Testing: Regular STD testing is important, especially for individuals with multiple sexual partners or unprotected sex.
- Vaccination: Vaccines are available for Hepatitis B and HPV , offering protection against these infections.
- Open Communication: Talk to sexual partners about sexual health to ensure both parties take necessary preventive measures.
Important Note: Many STDs can be asymptomatic, so it’s crucial to practice safe sex, maintain healthy sexual habits, and get regular check-ups to protect your health and the health of your partners.
