Understanding STD Symptoms: When to Get Tested in Singapore
- Mediway
- 18/10/2024
- No Comments
In Singapore, early detection of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) is crucial for maintaining good health and preventing complications. Knowing the common symptoms and when to seek testing can help individuals protect themselves and their partners.
This blog will provide valuable information about STD symptoms and guide you on when to visit an STD clinic in Singapore.
Common STD Symptoms
Symptoms in Men
Men experiencing any of the following symptoms should consider getting an STD test:
- Discharge: Abnormal discharge from the penis, which can be clear, white, yellow, or green. This discharge may be accompanied by a foul odour or burning sensation. It’s important to note that not all STDs cause discharge, but if you notice any unusual discharge, it’s best to get tested.
- Pain: Pain or discomfort during urination, ejaculation, or sex. This pain may be sharp, dull, or burning. It’s important to distinguish between normal discomfort and pain that is indicative of an STD.
- Sores: Sores or ulcers on the genitals, anus, or mouth. These sores may be painful, itchy, or oozing. They may also be accompanied by swelling or redness.
- Swollen Lymph Nodes: Enlarged lymph nodes in the groyne. These lymph nodes may be tender to the touch. Swollen lymph nodes are often a sign of a systemic infection, including STDs.
Symptoms in Women
Women should be aware of the following STD symptoms and seek medical attention if they experience any:
- Abnormal Bleeding: Unusual bleeding between periods, after sex, or after menopause. This bleeding may be heavy, light, or accompanied by pain. It’s important to note that not all STDs cause abnormal bleeding, but if you notice any unusual bleeding, it’s best to get tested.
- Itching or Burning: Itching or burning sensation in the genital area. This sensation may be accompanied by redness, swelling, or soreness. It’s important to distinguish between normal itching or burning and that which is indicative of an STD.
- Pain: Pelvic pain, abdominal pain, or pain during sex. This pain may be dull, sharp, or accompanied by cramping. It’s important to note that not all STDs cause pain, but if you experience any unusual pain, it’s best to get tested.
- Discharge: Abnormal vaginal discharge that is unusual in colour, odour, or consistency. This discharge may be thick, thin, watery, or accompanied by a foul odour. It’s important to note that not all STDs cause discharge, but if you notice any unusual discharge, it’s best to get tested.
When to Get Tested
Risk Factors
Several factors can increase the risk of contracting an STD, including:
- Unprotected Sex: Engaging in sexual activity without using a condom. Condoms are effective in preventing the transmission of many STDs, but they are not foolproof. It’s important to use condoms consistently and correctly to reduce your risk.
- Multiple Partners: Having multiple sexual partners. The more sexual partners you have, the higher your risk of contracting an STD. It’s important to be honest with your sexual partners and to discuss your sexual health with them.
- History of STDs: Having previously been diagnosed with an STD. If you have had an STD in the past, you are at a higher risk of contracting another STD. It’s important to get tested regularly, even if you don’t have any symptoms.
- Injection Drug Use: Sharing needles or syringes. Injection drug use can transmit a variety of STDs, including HIV and hepatitis. It’s important to avoid sharing needles or syringes and to seek treatment for substance abuse if you have a problem.
Signs to Seek Testing
If you experience any of the following symptoms or have been exposed to an STD, it’s important to get tested:
- Unusual Discharge: Abnormal discharge from the genitals or anus. This discharge may be clear, white, yellow, green, or bloody. It’s important to note that not all STDs cause discharge, but if you notice any unusual discharge, it’s best to get tested.
- Unexplained Pain: Pain during urination, sex, or in the pelvic area. This pain may be dull, sharp, or accompanied by cramping. It’s important to distinguish between normal discomfort and pain that is indicative of an STD.
- Sores or Ulcers: Open sores or ulcers on the genitals, anus, or mouth. These sores may be painful, itchy, or oozing. They may also be accompanied by swelling or redness.
- Recent Exposure: Having had unprotected sex with someone who may have an STD. If you have had unprotected sex with someone who has been diagnosed with an STD, it’s important to get tested as soon as possible.
Mediway Medical: Your Trusted Partner for STD Testing
When it comes to STD test in Singapore, Mediway Medical is a reputable and reliable choice. Our experienced doctors and compassionate staff provide confidential and comprehensive STD testing services.
At Mediway Medical, we understand the importance of early detection and offer accurate and timely results. Our state-of-the-art facilities and advanced testing methods ensure the highest quality of care.
If you’re concerned about your sexual health or have any questions about STD testing, don’t hesitate to contact Mediway Medical. We’re here to assist you and provide the support you need.