Here’s some basic indications. They are not meant to make a diagnosis, but they can help you recognize the main symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). This is a discussion that involves being attentive toward intimate, personal and sexual hygiene. Three main elements should be kept under control: 1) problems with urination, 2) genital hygiene and care, 3) the appearance of abnormal discharge.
Let’s look at each of these in a little more in detail.
- Problems with urination (this applies to you as well as your partner)
If you ever feel a burning sensation when peeing or have an abnormal secretion, possibly accompanied by small cramps, you should learn to recognize these symptoms and contact your gynecologist or a women’s health center immediately. All that’s necessary is a few simple tests, like a urine test or a secretion test, and you will know what it is in a few days, and have the right medicines to cure it. Therapy usually works very quickly.
- Taking care of your genitals (this applies to you as well as your partner)
When you wash your intimate parts, remember to check the entire genital area and the surrounding area, as far as the anus. Use a mirror to help with this. If you notice any slight alterations, red areas, swelling, small blisters or other external manifestations, pay close attention. Of course it’s easier for boys to examine their genitals and the surrounding area, which are all external, but it’s also important for girls to learn to examine their inner and outer labia. It’s easy once you get in the habit of it. You can also use one of those round magnifying mirrors to make viewing easier. This should become a customary practice, thereby making it easier to notice any anomaly early on, even if it’s something small, and take care of it quickly. If you notice something strange, contact your gynecologist or a women’s health center. If an infection is not diagnosed, the slight alteration will be treated immediately without any consequences.
- The appearance of abnormal discharge
For girls, as you may already know, one of the signs of the condition of uterine and vaginal activity is the so-called white discharge. When looking at your panties, if you notice that the discharge has a consistency, color or smell that is different from the usual, pay particular attention – it could be a sign of some slight irritation or inflammation. If it continues, report it to your gynecologist or someone from a women’s health center. With a very simple exam, which involves taking a small sample of mucous with a swab, you will be able to get a diagnosis and treatment within a few days, whether it be a sexually transmitted disease or a reassuring answer of “you have nothing to worry about.”
Even boys may sometimes experience discharge from the urethra, for example in the case of Chlamydia, Gonorrhea and Trichomoniasis. Exams are quick for them too. They can consult a women’s health center or a urologist/andrologist.
