Sexually Transmitted Infections

A sexually transmitted infection is an infection passed mainly through sexual contact — including chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, herpes, HPV, trichomoniasis and HIV — and many of them cause no symptoms whatsoever, which is why testing rather than waiting for signs is what identifies them.

Consultations for these infections are confidential. That is worth stating plainly, because concern about privacy is the most common reason people delay seeking care, and delay is what turns a treatable infection into a complication.

Symptoms of sexually transmitted infections

• Unusual discharge from the penis, vagina or anus
• Burning or pain when passing urine
• Sores, ulcers, blisters or growths around the genitals, anus or mouth
• Pain in the pelvis, or in the testicles
• Unusual bleeding between periods or after sex
• A rash, swollen glands, or a flu-like illness that does not settle
• No symptoms at all — the most common presentation of several of these infections

When should you see a specialist for a sexually transmitted infection?

• Any of the symptoms above
• A partner has been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection
• After unprotected sex with a new partner, or a change in partners
• Following a possible high-risk exposure — seek advice promptly, as some preventive options are time-sensitive and lose effectiveness with delay
• Before planning a pregnancy, or during pregnancy
• Symptoms that return after completing treatment
• For routine screening even in the absence of symptoms, if you are sexually active with new or multiple partners

Frequently asked questions about sexually transmitted infections

Can I have an infection without any symptoms?

Yes, and this is the single most important thing to understand about this group of infections. Chlamydia in particular is frequently silent, and can be passed on and cause complications without ever producing a symptom. Testing is the only way to know.

Is the consultation confidential?

Yes. Medical confidentiality applies here as it does to any other consultation. Testing and results are handled privately, and this applies regardless of age, marital status or circumstances.

Which tests will I need?

It depends on symptoms, exposure history and what is being screened for — commonly a combination of blood tests, urine tests and swabs. Not everyone needs every test, and what is appropriate is discussed before anything is done.

Does my partner need treatment too?

Usually yes. If partners are not treated, reinfection is likely, and the cycle simply repeats. Guidance on how to raise this with a partner is part of the consultation, and support is available if that conversation feels difficult.

Can these infections affect fertility?

Some can, particularly when they go untreated for a long period and cause inflammation and scarring in the reproductive tract. This is precisely why early testing matters — treated promptly, most of these infections are managed straightforwardly.

Conditions related to sexually transmitted infections

Where urinary symptoms are the main issue, see Urinary Tract Infections, as the two can be confused. Where a persistent unexplained fever or prolonged flu-like illness is the concern, see Fever of Unknown Origin.

Our infectious disease specialist follows a comprehensive diagnostic approach using detailed history, clinical examination, and advanced investigations to identify the root cause and provide effective treatment.