Being infected with a sexually transmitted disease (STD) can be life-changing. Besides the pain that one might go through, an STD can also cause the infected patient to be ostracised by the community around them. This can be especially true in Singapore, where sex and the discussions around sex are minimal in our daily lives. People here are worried about being seen when getting tested an STD clinic in Singapore. Some STDs, like HIV, do not even have a cure at the time of writing. Being infected with an STD can cause a permanent shift in your life. Here are a few ways that might happen.

STDs can be really painful

From irritating skin rashes to painful ulcers in the mouth or genitalia to urination with sharp pains, STDs can cause some discomfort or even pain to those who contract it. Some STDs are so painful that you may have to sit in certain positions to avoid the pain or even take a few days off work to recover. One potential symptom of HIV is a very high fever that makes the body incredibly weak for up to a week and patients who experience such fevers may be bedridden the entire duration.

STDs can be very embarrassing to talk about

In a conservative country like Singapore, it can be very difficult to discuss your STDs with your family and friends. When questions surface about your illness or odd behaviors, revealing to them that you have an STD could result in judgement. For teenagers with STDs, parents may even discipline them by restricting their freedom. It may be even harder to explain to a sexual partner that you have contracted an STD, as it could break the trust that was built between the two parties. Explaining the circumstances behind an STD can also lead to a lot of other uncomfortable questions.

STDs can cause permanent damage to the body

Finally, more serious STDs can affect the body permanently. If left untreated, syphilis can cause permanent damage to the nervous system, which could result in blindness or deafness. HIV can slowly wear down the body’s immune system, making it susceptible to common infections like the common cold. Getting tested and having early access to medication can greatly improve the life of an STD patient.

Conclusion

STDs can really shake up a patient’s life. The best way to protect yourself from STDs is to always practice safe sex: properly use condoms whenever you have a sexual encounter. If you need to get tested for an STD, do contact Elyon Clinic at 6802 7208.