Why You Should Never Ignore Possible STD Symptoms

Experiencing symptoms that make you wonder if you might have a sexually transmitted disease (STD) but feel too anxious or embarrassed to seek help? You aren’t alone—over 20 million Americans get diagnosed with an STD every year. 

Ignoring potential STD symptoms can lead to more serious health complications, affecting not only your well-being but also that of your partners. Understanding the importance of recognizing and addressing these symptoms are key for maintaining overall health.

At Triad Internal Medicine, in Asheboro, North Carolina, board-certified internal medicine providers Keung Lee, MD, PhD, MHA, and Chelsea Poe, FNP, can help with our confidential STD testing and treatment.  

Whether you’re experiencing troubling symptoms or just need peace of mind, our practice is equipped to help you manage your sexual health responsibly. Continue reading to learn more about the common symptoms of STDs, why you should never ignore them, and how we can help.

Understanding STDs and their symptoms

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections passed primarily via sexual contact. They can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites and can affect anyone who is sexually active, regardless of gender or orientation.

Many STDs don’t have obvious symptoms until later stages. When they do appear, STD symptoms can vary widely, but some common signs include:

• Unusual discharge from your genitals or anus
• Pain or burning sensation when urinating
• Rashes, sores or bumps on or around your genitals, anus, or mouth
• Itching and irritation in your genital area
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Unexplained bleeding outside of menstrual cycles

Keep in mind that symptoms can be mild in early stages and are sometimes mistaken for other conditions. This is why seeking medical advice if you notice any changes in your body.

Why ignoring STD symptoms is dangerous

Ignoring the signs of an STD can lead to severe health issues, including infertility, organ damage, and increased risk of contracting other infections, such as HIV. 

In addition, untreated STDs can be easily transmitted to sexual partners, even when symptoms are not obvious. Many STDs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, can be asymptomatic, meaning they present no noticeable symptoms. 

As a result, you can pass the disease on to your partner without knowing. Plus, even without obvious symptoms, the disease can still cause long-term health problems. 

This is why regular screenings are essential to your health and the health of your partners—especially if you have multiple partners or are unsure of your partner's sexual health.

What to do if you’re worried about STDs

If you suspect an STD, don’t ignore it. At Triad Internal Medicine, we understand the sensitive nature of STDs. 

That's why we offer confidential STD testing services designed to respect your privacy and make you feel at ease. Our testing process is straightforward, quick, and handled with the utmost care by our professional team members.  

If a test comes back positive, your healthcare provider discusses your treatment options in a compassionate and non-judgmental setting. Treatment may include prescription medications such as antibiotics or antivirals, depending on the type of infection. 

Our commitment to your health extends beyond the initial visit. We offer ongoing support and education to help you understand your condition, manage your health, and prevent future STDs—including regular screenings.

While your provider recommends a personalized screening schedule for your needs, there are some general guidelines recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which can be a good place to start:

• One lifetime HIV screening for everyone 13-64
• Annual HIV screenings for anyone who has unprotected sex or shares needles
• Annual chlamydia and gonorrhea testing for women over 25 with new or multiple partners with an STD
• Annual chlamydia and gonorrhea testing for sexually active women under 25  
• Annual syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea screenings for sexually active gay and bisexual men or men of any orientation with more than one partner
• Screening for HIV, hepatitis B, and syphilis for all pregnant women

Worried you might have an STD? Our team is here to help. Get answers by scheduling an appointment online or over the phone at Triad Internal Medicine in Asheboro, North Carolina.