I Think I Have an STD: What Should I Do?

Something’s not right “down there.” You suddenly have unexplained itching, rashy skin, bumpy warts, and foul-smelling discharge, and you’re worried you might have a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Waiting and worrying won’t help, so what should you do?

Come see us.

Our team of experienced physicians at Rios Healthcare Associates in Houston, Texas, offers compassionate, nonjudgmental, discreet STD screening and treatment. 

Suspecting an STD can be unsettling, but information is power. The more you know about STDs, the better you’re able to protect yourself and your partners.

Here’s what you need to know about STDS and what to do if you think you have one.

Facts about STDs

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections spread through sexual contact. They come in many forms — bacterial, viral, or parasitic — and can affect anyone sexually active. Some STDs are curable with medication, while others are manageable but incurable. 

STDs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis are bacterial infections, often treatable with antibiotics. Viral STDs like herpes, HIV, and HPV, however, require long-term management. 

Many STDs have no symptoms, so we recommend regular testing for sexually active people even if they feel fine.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, STDs are going strong in the United States, estimating that in 2022 alone, over 2.5 million Americans had the top three STDs: gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia. 

Signs you may have an STD

Identifying STD symptoms can be tricky because they aren’t the same in everyone. However, knowing the most common signs can help you decide if you need testing. Early detection can prevent complications and transmission to others.

STD symptoms may include: 

• Unusual discharge from the genitals
• Pain during intercourse
• Burning sensation while urinating
• Sores
• Rashes
• Lumps around the genital area 
• Itching
• Irritation
• Flu-like symptoms, such as fever and swollen lymph nodes 

These common STD symptoms could also indicate other health issues, so don’t assume you have an STD until you get tested.

And remember that the absence of symptoms doesn’t mean you’re STD-free. If you or your partner have multiple sexual partners, you should all get tested regularly. 

What to do if you suspect an STD

If you think you have an STD, don’t wait and worry — act now. 

1. The first step is to stop any sexual activity.
2. The next move is to schedule a test. Rios Healthcare Associates provides confidential and comprehensive STD testing services. Testing is the only way to confirm an STD diagnosis because many symptoms overlap with other conditions. 
3. Tell your partner(s) about your concerns so they can also seek testing and treatment if necessary. 

What to expect during STD testing

STD testing is easy and painless. We collect a few samples — urine, blood, or swabs — and analyze them for various STDs. If you have one, we prescribe medication if appropriate and tell you what to expect next, depending on the STD.

After your first visit, you’re not on your own. Our team sticks with you as you navigate your sexual health and treatment. We see you at follow-up visits to monitor your treatment to ensure the infection fully resolves and talk about preventive measures moving forward.

How to prevent STDs

Preventing STDs is as important as treating them. Using condoms is one of the best ways to reduce STD transmission. Limiting your number of sexual partners also helps.

Regular STD testing should be part of your health care routine, especially if you’re sexually active with new or multiple partners. 

We also offer vaccinations for some STDs, such as HPV and hepatitis B. 

If you suspect an STD, don’t wait and worry. Call Rios Healthcare Associates or request an appointment online today.