Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Common STIs in the UK

The ten most prevalent sexually transmitted infections diagnosed in the UK include:

• Pubic lice
• Genital warts
• Hepatitis C
• Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
• Chlamydia
• Hepatitis B
• Trichomoniasis
• Genital herpes
• Syphilis
• Gonorrhoea

Less commonly encountered STIs in the UK include donovanosis and chancroid.

A report from Public Health England noted 422,147 new STI diagnoses by sexual health services in England in 2017. Chlamydia accounted for almost half of these cases. First-time genital warts made up around one-seventh of the cases, while gonorrhoea contributed to approximately one in nine. Syphilis and gonorrhoea diagnoses rose during this period, while the number of genital warts cases decreased, particularly among young women. This reduction is largely attributed to the widespread uptake of the Human papillomavirus vaccination programme offered to school-aged girls.

Other conditions sometimes confused with sexually transmitted infection

Certain conditions that affect the genital area or can be transmitted through close contact, including but not limited to sexual activity, may sometimes be mistaken for STIs. These include:

• Monkeypox
• Cystitis
• Scabies
• Bacterial vaginosis
• Molluscum contagiosum

Recognising symptoms of STI

Symptoms of STIs can vary, ranging from localised genital symptoms to systemic issues affecting different regions of your body.

Below are some common symptoms to be mindful of:

• Swollen lymph nodes in the groin area
• Sores, ulcers, rashes, or lumps around the genitals, vulva, anus, or penis
• Unusual vaginal discharge
• Discomfort or pain while urinating (though this can often result from urinary tract infections)
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Discharge from the penis

In many cases, an STI may not cause any noticeable symptoms. However, even in the absence of symptoms, the infection can still be transmitted to others.

What to do if you suspect an STI

If you suspect you might have contracted an STI, whether or not you are experiencing symptoms, it is essential to seek medical advice promptly.

Where to get tested

• Go to a GUM clinic: In the UK, you can go directly to a GUM clinic without a referral. These clinics provide confidential advice, testing, and treatment.

It is important to abstain from sexual activity until you have been tested and, if necessary, treated. This helps prevent the potential spread of infection.

• Visit your medical professional: Your medical professional can provide initial advice and, if needed, refer you to a specialist genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic for further evaluation. Some medical professionals may perform STI tests directly.

STI testing

After an initial consultation and examination, healthcare professionals may recommend specific tests for STIs. Consent will always be obtained from you before any test is conducted.

Informing Sexual Partners

If you are diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection, you will be encouraged to notify any recent or current sexual partners so they can be tested and treated if necessary. This process, known as contact tracing, helps prevent further transmission.

You are not obligated to contact previous partners yourself. Clinics can assist by notifying individuals anonymously. Recklessly exposing someone to an STI without informing them is against the law.

Treatments for sexually transmitted infections

Treatment depends on the specific infection:

• Complex treatments are required for hep B, HIV, Hep C, and genital herpes.
• Creams or lotions can treat scabies and pubic lice.
• Topical treatments are used for most cases of genital warts.
• Antibiotics are effective for syphilis, trichomoniasis, chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and syphilis.

It is very essential to complete the medications prescribed by your medical practitioner to you, even though there is an improvement in your symptoms. This is to be certain that the infection is resolved completely. Do not stop taking medication without consulting your clinic or medical practitioner if you experience any side effects.

You may be advised to return for a follow-up test to confirm the infection has cleared. Avoid sexual activity until you are advised it is safe to resume.

Preventing STIs

Safe sexual practices can significantly reduce the risk of contracting STIs. This includes using condoms consistently and correctly and being aware of the risks associated with multiple sexual partners.

HPV and Hepatitis Vaccinations

Vaccination against hepatitis B, human papillomavirus (HPV), and hepatitis A is offered to certain groups, including gay, bisexual men and some transgender individuals. Ask your clinic for more information.

PrEP (Pre-exposure Prophylaxis) for HIV

It is a preventive medication available to individuals at high risk of HIV exposure, such as those with HIV-positive partners. It is free on NHS through sexual health clinics. Two regimens are available:

• Event-based dosing: two tablets taken 2–24 hours before sexual activity, followed by additional doses after.
• Daily tablets.

PrEP protects only against HIV and does not prevent other STIs.

For further details or to book an appointment, contact us today. Take control of your sexual health with our confidential and professional services.