Are you aware that the most common STDs among men and women are not the same? This is due to the differences in physiology that results in women being more susceptible to contracting sexually transmitted diseases and infections (STDs and STIs) and are also less likely to show any early signs and symptoms.
There are several STDs common in men. While some of them overlap with women, most have a disproportionately high gender-specific factor. Very often, the STDs more common to men are asymptomatic, which increases their risk of unknowingly transmitting to their partner.
Nevertheless, you can still learn what to do if you contract an STD. Without further ado, here are five common STDs found among men and their signs and symptoms.
1. Chlamydia
Chlamydia is a bacterial infection and can easily be treated with an antibiotic course. However, as many as 50% of men who have contracted chlamydia might not even be aware of its presence. At the same time, women who have contracted chlamydia might remain asymptomatic for years. Hence, it is an STD that can be easily transmitted from one person to another. Chlamydia spreads easily through any sexual activity, from anal to oral and vaginal sex.
When symptoms do occur, some common signs include penile discharge, swollen testicles, and pain when urinating. In rare and severe cases, chlamydia may even result in bleeding, epididymis, infection of the testes, and urethritis. It is vital for men who are sexually active to conduct regular STD tests for chlamydia. In the case where the man is tested positive for the bacterial infection, both the man and his sexual partner(s) will have to undergo immediate treatment. It is crucial to note that you can contract chlamydia again even after being treated. Hence, always practise safe sex.
2. Gonorrhoea
Gonorrhoea is also a common bacterial infection among men and women. It can be transmitted through unprotected sex, whether anal, oral, or vaginal. Similar to chlamydia, it can result in urethritis in men. Hence, most of the signs and symptoms of gonorrhoea and chlamydia are identical – testicular pain, penile discharge, and painful urination. The infected individual may even develop a rash in his groins, but it is a less common sign.
Antibiotics are usually the most effective and successful course of treatment for gonorrhoea. The earlier gonorrhoea is detected, the easier the treatment will be. When left untreated, gonorrhoea can spread to the joints and blood, and a more complex treatment is then necessary. A more severe result of gonorrhoea left untreated would be infertility in men.
3. AIDS or HIV
Do you know that AIDS happen among males more than it does among females? This can be attributed to sexual activities with other men. HIV, also known as Human Immunodeficiency Virus, is a viral condition. The virus cell reproduces by attacking immune response cells, causing the immune system to become compromised and not being able to fight off infections. As a result, the HIV-positive individual progresses to having AIDS, which is Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome.
In the past, getting HIV used to mean a death sentence. However, with medical advances, such as HIV PEP prophylaxis, HIV PrEP, and ART, many HIV-positive individuals are able to live a healthy and long life with an undetectable viral load. Do note that such treatments do not cure HIV but control the amount of the virus in the body. The individual is still HIV-positive and can still transmit the virus to his partner(s).
Some common initial signs of HIV could be flu-like symptoms that could progress further as the immune system is compromised by the virus. In more severe cases, the individual might develop cancer.
4. HPV
HPV or Human Papillomavirus Infections are a highly-discussed topic because they are the primary causing factor of cervical cancer among women. However, men can also contract HPV. While the viral infection typically disappears on its own after several years, it can still cause problems. Most HPV-positive men do not display any initial symptoms, which makes it even more dangerous for their female partner(s). However, when symptoms do occur, most men show signs of genital warts. In severe cases, the high-risk HPV strains that cause cervical cancer among women increase the risk of developing anus, throat, and penile cancer among men.
Fortunately, there is an HPV vaccine available, and it is highly effective. While the vaccine is usually administered to females aged 9 to 26, males do get the option to get vaccinated should they want to.
5. Genital herpes
Genital herpes is the last widespread STD among men worth mentioning. It is a result of HSV or Herpes Simplex Virus that is usually contracted through direct contact with an infected individual’s genitals. Symptoms may surface weeks after contracting the viral infection in the form of tiny blisters that are usually confused with a skin condition. Additionally, other symptoms include testicular and penile blisters, general discomfort around the genitals, as well as swollen lymph nodes at the groin.
Conclusion
STDs are rapidly spreading around the globe, and Singapore is not an exception. Protecting yourself and your loved ones should be your top priority. As such, always practise protected sex, and go for STD testing regularly, especially if you are sexually active or if you have casual sex with multiple partners. There are various screening packages and options that test for several STDs.
Visit Elyon Clinic or contact us at 6802 7208 as soon as possible if you are interested to find out more about getting tested for any of the STDs above. Our clinicians and doctors will consult you and recommend you treatment options, prevention methods, and safe sex practices that are in line with your particular situation.
