Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can affect anyone, but women often experience symptoms that are more subtle or mistaken for other conditions. Understanding the symptoms of an STD in females is essential, as many STDs can lead to more serious complications if left untreated, including infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and chronic pain. Early detection and treatment are crucial, which is why recognising the symptoms and undergoing STD screening regularly is so important.

Below are four of the most common STDs that affect women and the symptoms to watch out for.

Chlamydia: often silent but potentially serious

Chlamydia is one of the most common bacterial STDs in women, especially among those in their 20s and 30s. It is easily transmitted through vaginal, anal or oral sex and often goes unnoticed because symptoms of chlamydia can be mild or completely absent.

When symptoms do occur, women may experience:

  • Unusual vaginal discharge
  • Painful or burning urination
  • Lower abdominal or pelvic pain
  • Painful intercourse
  • Bleeding between periods
  • Abnormal uterine bleeding

If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to PID, scarring of the fallopian tubes, and fertility problems. Routine STD screening helps detect chlamydia early before complications arise.

Gonorrhoea: the “clap” with overlapping symptoms

Gonorrhoea is another bacterial STD that shares many symptoms with chlamydia, making it difficult to distinguish without testing. Some women may be asymptomatic, while others can develop noticeable discomfort.

Symptoms may include:

  • Increased or discoloured vaginal discharge
  • Pain or burning sensation when urinating
  • Vaginal bleeding between periods
  • Pain during sex
  • Rectal discomfort such as itching, discharge or soreness

If the infection spreads, it can cause pelvic pain, fever, and in rare cases, joint pain and skin rashes. Gonorrhoea can be treated effectively with antibiotics, but reinfection is possible, so regular testing is encouraged for sexually active individuals.

Human papillomavirus (HPV): widespread but often overlooked

HPV is a viral infection with more than 100 strains, some of which can cause genital warts or lead to cervical cancer. Most sexually active people will contract HPV at some point, but the body typically clears it on its own. However, certain high-risk strains may persist and cause more serious issues.

Visible symptoms include:

  • Genital warts: soft, flesh-coloured bumps around the vulva, anus or groin area
  • Itching or discomfort in the genital area
  • Unusual bleeding, especially after intercourse

In many cases, HPV is asymptomatic, and abnormalities are only picked up during Pap smears or HPV tests. Because HPV can progress silently, regular cervical screening is critical in detecting early signs of abnormal cell changes.

Genital herpes: painful outbreaks and recurrences

Caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), genital herpes is a viral STD that can be transmitted even when no visible sores are present. It often begins with flu-like symptoms before visible signs emerge.

Common symptoms include:

  • Painful blisters or ulcers on the genitals or anus
  • Vaginal itching or burning
  • Swollen lymph nodes in the groin
  • Fever, fatigue and body aches
  • Painful urination
  • Lower back pain

Some women may also experience painful intercourse or recurrent outbreaks triggered by stress, illness or menstruation. While there is no cure for herpes, antiviral medication can reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks and lower the risk of transmission.

Why symptoms alone aren’t enough

Many STDs in women can be asymptomatic or have symptoms that overlap with other infections such as yeast infections or urinary tract infections. Fatigue, vaginal odour, fever, or even lower back pain can easily be dismissed until the infection progresses. Additionally, oral and anal sex can introduce STDs to the throat or rectum, causing sore throat, rectal discharge or pain that may not immediately be linked to sexual activity.

Given this wide range of possible symptoms and silent infections, relying solely on how you feel is not a reliable way to know if you have an STD. Regular STD screening is the most effective way to stay informed about your sexual health, especially if you have multiple partners or a new partner.

Take charge of your sexual health today

Taking steps to understand and manage your sexual health is key to preventing complications and staying well. Whether you’re noticing unusual symptoms or simply being proactive, timely medical attention makes all the difference. Elyon Family Clinic & Surgery provides a safe, supportive environment for addressing your concerns with confidence and clarity.