Symptoms
If you have one of the following symptoms you might have an STI:
- discharge from the urethra, vagina or anus (yellow, greenish, brownish, smelly or bloody). Most discharge from the vagina is normal. If the discharge smells strongly or changes colour, it can be a symptom of an STI;
- skin changes: blisters, warts, sores or a rash on/in/around the penis, vagina, anus or mouth/throat;
- pain and/or a burning sensation when going to the toilet;
- itching of the penis, vagina, anus or pubic hair;
- bleeding or abdominal pain when having sexual intercourse (penetration);
- pain in one or both testicles (man);
- blood in your faeces;
- difficulties getting pregnant (infertility).
Vaginal infections
Women can also have some of these symptoms (discharge, itching vagina, burning feeling when urinating) that are not caused by an STI. These are called vaginal infections and can be caused by a fungal infections (candida) or bacterial vaginosis.
Ask a health professional for advice.
STI treatment
The symptoms of an STI can disappear while you still have the STI. You still need to be treated. Untreated STIs can seriously damage your health. Most stis can be cured or their symptoms can be treated.
Ask a health professional for advice.