What are common symptoms of STDs?

Not sure of your STD status? Wondering whether you might have an STD (sexually transmitted diseases, also called STIs or sexually transmitted infections) can be overwhelming. But it can still be hard to prioritize making an appointment for an STD test, especially when you’re busy with life! 

Maybe you’re in school, or working, or you’ve got a family to take care of. Whatever stage of life you’re in, it’s important to empower yourself with info about your health. Knowledge is the enemy of anxiety and uncertainty. So the first step to getting your sexual health on track is building on what you know. 

Maybe you’re asking, “what are common symptoms of STDs” and looking for testing in the STL Metro area (either in MO or the IL side of the river). We want you to know that there are plenty of resources: your health provider, a health center like ThriVe Metro East, your local health department, and labs that provide no-cost or low-cost STI testing and treatment. 

We’re here to equip you with the knowledge you need to make your own health decisions. So here’s some valuable information and tips to help you make an empowered choice.

What Are Common Symptoms of STDs?

STI stands for sexually transmitted infection. These infections can be bacterial, viral, or caused by parasites — but they’re all spread through sexual contact (vaginal sex, anal sex, oral sex or genital touching).¹ 

However, many STIs don’t show symptoms at all.¹ And if you don’t know you have an infection, it’s likely that it goes untreated. Here are some of the most common STIs and how they might present in women:

Chlamydia

This infection is caused by bacteria, and many women don’t know they have it. When there are symptoms, they might include:

• Vaginal discharge 
• Pain or burning sensation when you pee.
• Lower abdominal or back pain
• Bleeding between periods or after sex
• Pain during intercourse¹
• Why Treatment Matters: Untreated STIs like chlamydia can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can cause chronic pain, permanent damage to the reproductive organs, an infertility.²

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is another common sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria. Like chlamydia, it might not show any symptoms at all. But when the infection does show signs, they might include:

• Thick, cloudy, or bloody discharge from the vagina.
• Pain or burning while peeing.
• Sore throat (if transmitted via oral sex).
• Lower abdominal or pelvic pain
• Painful bowel movements
• Bleeding between periods.¹
• Why Treatment Matters: Gonorrhea can lead to infertility, chronic pelvic pain, and an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy if it’s not treated.²

Syphilis

What are common symptoms of STDs like syphilis? This infection shows effects in stages:

• Primary Stage: Painless sores (called chancres) at the site of infection (genitals, anus, or mouth).
• Secondary Stage: Skin rashes, especially on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet; fever, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes.
• Latent Stage: No visible symptoms, but the bacteria remain in the body and can progress to the tertiary stage.
• Tertiary Stage: Severe complications affecting the heart, brain, and other organs^.1
• Why Treatment Matters: If untreated, syphilis can cause life-threatening complications. It may also be passed to children during pregnancy.¹

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

HPV is a virus that can cause genital warts and lead to certain kinds of cancer. It’s a super common STD, and often shows no symptoms.¹

• Some strains cause genital warts (small, flesh-colored bumps that may cluster together).
• High-risk strains can lead to cervical, throat, or anal cancers.¹
• Why Treatment Matters: Regular Pap smears or HPV screenings can catch abnormal cell changes early.¹

Herpes (HSV-1 and HSV-2)

This virus spreads easily. It enters the body through little tears in the skin or mucous membranes. Many people don’t have any idea that they (or their sexual partner) has a herpes infection, but it can sometimes cause:

• Painful blisters or sores around the genitals, anus, or mouth.
• Itching or pain.
• Flu-like symptoms during the first outbreak (fever, body aches, swollen lymph nodes).
• Recurring outbreaks.
• Why Treatment Matters: While there’s no cure, antiviral medications can manage outbreaks and reduce transmission risks.^{1, 3}

HIV/AIDS

• HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) Symptoms (Acute Stage):
  • Flu-like symptoms: fever, sore throat, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue.
• HIV Chronic Stage: Symptoms may not appear for years but can include weight loss, persistent fatigue, night sweats, and frequent infections.
• Why Treatment Matters: HIV testing is super important to get the infection in check. Early diagnosis and antiretroviral therapy (ART) can keep HIV under control and prevent it from progressing to AIDS.

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis (or “trich”) is caused by a microscopic parasite. Symptoms may be mild or severe, and might include:

• Clear, white, greenish, or yellow vaginal discharge with a fishy smell
• Vaginal itching, soreness, irritation, or burning
• Pain during intercourse or urination.
• Why Treatment Matters: Trichomoniasis is treatable but can increase your risk of contracting other STDs (STIs) if left untreated.^{1, 4}

Hepatitis B (HBV)

Hepatitis infections affect the liver. Some people never know that they’ve got an infection, but it can cause:

• Dark urine,
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
• Fatigue, muscle, or joint pain
• Stool the color of clay
• Why Treatment Matters: Hepatitis B can lead to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, or liver cancer.⁵

What are Common Symptoms of STDs and Why Does Testing Matter?

Think you could have an STD? If you’ve ever been sexually active, it’s possible. But here’s the thing: STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HPV are super common and can be treated or managed. The problem is that many women don’t even know that they have a sexually transmitted infection because they don’t have symptoms.¹

That’s why STD testing is key! Early detection can prevent serious complications like infertility or long-term health issues.² So if in doubt, just get tested. There are centers (like ThriVe Metro East) where it will cost you nothing but a little bit of time, and it’ll save you the stress and uncertainty of not knowing.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms — or even if you feel fine but have been sexually active — it’s a big deal to make an appointment for testing. Many STDs are treatable (some can be cured with one dose of an antibiotic!⁶), but getting tested early is critical to prevent complications and protect your health.¹ Your future is worth it.

Want to get tested…like yesterday? Totally get that. Give us a call when you’ve got a sec, and we’ll get you scheduled. Your future self will thank you.

What’s it like getting tested?

If you’ve never been tested for STDs, it’s normal to have some questions. It’s super important to feel safe and comfortable receiving medical care. Here are some of the ways testing can be done:

• Swabs: For areas like the throat, genital, or rectal regions.
• Urine Samples: Quick and simple.
• Blood Tests: Used for HIV or other infections.

Testing is fast, confidential, and judgment-free. We just want you to feel your best so you can get back to what’s important.

Tips for Choosing the Best STI Testing Location

When selecting where to go, these tips can empower you to make the best decision:

• Confidentiality: Your privacy matters! Make sure the facility respects your confidentiality and protects your personal information.
• Compassionate Care: Feeling comfortable with the staff can make all the difference. Choose a place known for being warm, welcoming, and non-judgmental (hint: ThriVe).
• Reputation: Read reviews and ask around for recommendations to find trusted locations with great care.
• Additional Services: Some clinics, like ThriVe, go beyond testing by offering education, follow-up support, and even emotional care to help you feel confident and informed.

Your Empowerment Checklist

Wondering where to go from here? That’s understandable. Here are the steps to empower yourself when you think you have an STD:

• 💡 Educate Yourself: Know the symptoms and risks associated with common STIs.  Ever hear the saying, “Prevention is the best medicine?” Consider delaying sex for now to avoid the risk of infection.
• 📍 Find a Convenient Location: Choose a spot with hours that fit your schedule and make an appointment.
• 🤝 Prioritize Compassion: Go somewhere that offers a cozy, judgment-free environment.
• ✅ Check for Quick Appointments: Don’t wait weeks — find a place that can see you ASAP.
• 🌟 Look for Additional Services: Education, follow-ups, and emotional support make a big difference.
• 📲 Book Your Appointment: Reach out to facilities like ThriVe Metro East to schedule your test today.

Why Testing is Empowering

Taking control of your health shows you care about your body and your future. Good on you! With so many options in the St. Louis area and the Metro East (like the no-cost testing at ThriVe), why wait? You have access to compassionate care that helps you feel seen, heard, and valued. What’s most important is that you feel empowered in your health.

Give us a call when you’re ready to get tested. We’re here to help.

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