Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can be especially dangerous, especially to females. Many women with these infections are unaware that they have them, and unknowingly spread the disease to others. The only foolproof way to prevent the transmission of STDs is by abstinence. Condom use is also highly effective in preventing disease transmission. Symptoms in females will vary depending on the type of disease that you may have acquired. Some sexually transmitted infections will not give you immediate symptoms but may be causing irreversible damage to your body. If you have had unprotected sex, or think you may have contracted a STD, seek medical attention immediately.
Painful Intercourse
If you begin to experience pain during intercourse, it may be a symptom of an STD. Both chlamydia and gonorrhea cause pain during intercourse. If these diseases go untreated, they may lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, which may cause infertility in women. It is easy to get tested for chlamydia and gonorrhea. Your gynecologist inserts a swab into the opening of the cervical canal and cell samples are sent to a lab for diagnosis. Both of these diseases may be treated with a course of antibiotics. Abstain from sexual intercourse until your provider confirms effective treatment. It is your responsibility to contact any past sexual partners so that they may be tested and treated.
Sores or Warts
Some STDs cause the appearance of sores or warts on or near the vagina. Herpes is clinically manifested as small, fluid-filled vesicles that may cause itching and burning. Genital warts causes small, flesh-colored or gray "swellings" in the genital area. When several genital warts are close together, they resemble a cauliflower shape, states the Mayo Clinic. Syphilis causes a chancre sore at the point of infection, usually in the genital area. These diseases are also highly contagious. If you think you may have genital herpes, warts or syphilis abstain from sex and seek medical attention. Neither herpes nor warts are curable, but there are medications to help manage symptoms and prevent future outbreaks. Syphilis is curable with an antibiotic, but if left untreated may affect the heart or brain.
Genital Itching, Burning and Discharge
Genital itching and burning is a possible sign of a STD. Herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis and genital warts cause these symptoms. You may also have a yeast infection (candida) or bacterial vaginosis (BV), which also have similar symptoms. Any woman who experiences itching or burning with or without an increase in vaginal discharge should see her gynecologist immediately.
Flu-Like Symptoms and Rash
Flu-like symptoms, swollen lymph nodes and a rash are possible symptoms of HIV, according to the Mayo Clinic. If you think you may have been exposed to HIV, you need to be tested immediately. In the event that you have HIV, the earlier you begin treatment, the better your outcome may be. Many centers offer confidential testing and counseling.
