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Do I have an STI?

Here are first signs and symptoms in both men and women.

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are passed from one person to another through sex with an infected person. This infection can be passed through anal, vaginal, or oral sex.

As long as you are sexually active, you can get an STI if you have unprotected sex.

Anyone can gerrrit! You can gerrrit, I can gerrrit!

Do not be fooled by good looks! You cannot know whether someone has an STI just by looking at them.

STIs can also be passed to a baby during pregnancy and childbirth.

Common STIs include ChlamydiaHPV, and Genital herpes.

First symptoms of STIs

It depends.

There are many different types of STIs and each type may have some very specific symptoms. In some cases, there are no symptoms at all. It is important to know that even if you have not developed symptoms, you can still pass the infection to your sexual partner(s). Using a condom every time you have sex is the best way to prevent STIs.

STIs symptoms normally develop around the genital area.

General symptoms may include:

In both men and women:

  • Unusual discharge from your genitals (penis, vagina) or anus
  • Pain when urinating
  • Sores, warts, rashes in the genital area
  • Pain in the scrotum and testicles
  • Bumps and lumps in the genital area

In women:

  • Yellow or green vaginal discharge
  • Discharge that smells
  • Bleeding between periods or after sex
  • Pain during sex
  • Lower abdominal pain.

In men:

  • Discharge from the penis
  • Irritation of the urethra (the tube urine comes out of).

Related: Can I Get An STI From Oral Sex

Testing for STIs

If you suspect that you may have an STI, see a doctor instead of trying to diagnose or self-medicate. Symptoms can vary from one person to another thus only a doctor can give accurate diagnosis and treat the infection.

The only way to find out whether you have an STI is to visit a medical facility. In Kenya, Marie Stopes offers STI screening at their various clinics. Visit the nearest Marie Stopes Clinic for a consultation so that they can identify and treat you. 

You can also visit government hospitals and other registered medical facilities near you.

Most STIs can be easily treated but if left untreated, they can sometimes lead to more serious health issues.

You need to go for medical check-ups regularly. Do not wait until you are sick.

Related: 7 Excuses Men Give To Avoid Wearing Condom

Do you have any questions on STIs? Ask and we will answer them in the comments section.

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Recent Comments (8)

  1. I love this kind of free…
    I love this kind of free teachings u are giving us.continue like that.

    1. Hello Rotich, thank you so…

      Hello Rotich, thank you so much for your feedback we appreciate it.

  2. The following signs…
    The following signs indicates which STI;Smelly green&yellow discharge,abdominal pain,pain while uranating,seeing blood b4 periods and which is the best medicine to clear it out?

    1. Hello Anonymous, thank you…

      Hello Anonymous, thank you for reaching out to us. Since this is a medical issue we strongly advise you see a medical professional for a comprehensive diagnosis.
      You can call Marie Stopes Kenya today for free on 0800 720005 or WhatsApp them on 0709819001 for help and to book an appointment with them.

  3. I have been treated several…
    I have been treated several times time bt still i have pain at my urethra

    1. Hello John, thank you for…

      Hello John, thank you for reaching out to us. We are so sorry to hear you are going through such a hard time. Please set an appointment with a urologist who is a special doctor who can help you best identify what the issue is. Your local clinic or hospital should be able to direct you to one near you. We hope this helps you resolve this issue once and for all.

  4. I once tested and I had STIs…
    I once tested and I had STIs and was treated but even today I still suspect that am still suffering which it has made me not last longer in bed please help

    1. Hi Maish, 

      The best thing…

      Hi Maish, 

      The best thing to do is to visit the doctor for further tests. You say that you suspect that the STI may have recurred and the best way to find out is through testing. 

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