It is often hard to tell if your symptoms are due to a sexually transmitted disease (STD) or urinary tract infection (UTI). This is because UTI typically presents symptoms common among STDs, like a burning feeling and vice versa. This article covers the differences between STDs and UTIs and how to tell apart their symptoms.
What is an STD?
As its name implies, STDs are infectious diseases passed primarily through sexual intercourse and non-sexual contact, such as kissing. Viruses, bacteria, and parasites are the leading causes of STDs. Being sexually active risks exposure to STDs, with certain factors increasing that risk, such as:
- Engaging in unprotected sex
Inconsistent or improper use of condoms and engaging with an infected partner without using a condom increases the risk of catching STDs. - Having sexual contact with numerous partners
The more partners you have sexual contact with, the higher the risk. - Having a history of STIs
Having STI makes it easier for another infection to take hold. - Needle sharing through drug injections
Needle sharing is attributed to numerous serious infections such as hepatitis B, C, and HIV.
On the other hand, UTI is a bacterial infection caused by E. coli bacteria that affect the urinary tract and urinary system, most often occurring in the bladder. Although typically mild, UTIs may circulate to other areas of the urinary tract, such as the kidneys (pyelonephritis). If left untreated, it can lead to a more severe condition that could leave permanent damage. Factors that increase the risk of contracting UTI include:
- Wearing tight-fitting clothing
- Blocking in the urinary tract due to an enlarged prostate or kidney stones
- Gender; Bacteria can more easily get into women’s bladder, given their shorter urethra and closer proximity to the anus than men.
- Recent sexual activity or a new sexual partner may cause bacteria to get pushed into the urethra.
How The Two Infections Differ
The main difference between STDs and UTIs is that the latter is not spread via sexual contact. They cannot spread from one person to another, and contracting it does not require being sexually active. However, engaging in sexual intercourse is also attributed to the risk of getting a UTI.
Both infections occur near sexual organs and may give rise to the same symptoms, which is why most people confuse the two.
Some shared symptoms include:
- The urge to urinate
- Frequent, difficult or painful urination
- Discolouration in urine discharge (may appear cloudy or dark) and have a strange smell.
Although STDs and UTIs are asymptomatic, this applies more to STDs.
The following are STD symptoms not caused by UTI:
- Rectal bleeding, pain, or discharge
- Genital sores, blisters, or rashers
- Changes in penile or vaginal discharge
- Spotting or bleeding between menstrual cycles
- Pain during intercourse
Besides similar symptoms, STDs and UTIs produce similar results on urinalysis tests and lead to misdiagnosis. Several research findings have shown that around half of patients diagnosed with UTIs in the emergency room may have had STDs.
Can STDs Cause a UTI?
The short answer is yes. While E. coli bacteria cause most UTI infections, this is not always the case. Although less common, other viruses, bacteria, and fungi can also cause UTIs. In certain instances, bacteria that cause certain STDs, like chlamydia, may bring about a UTI.
How To Tell If It Is An STD or UTI
UTIs sometimes do not exhibit symptoms, and STDs produce or show no symptoms. If you experience any symptoms, the best and recommended action is to get tested immediately. Although paying close attention to your symptoms can let you discern which is which, the only way to be 100% sure is to visit an STD clinic in Singapore and get tested.
Conclusion
Whether it is STD or UTI, it is essential to note that neither will go away in time and thus must be treated appropriately. If you need to check your symptoms and ensure what is ailing you, Elyon Clinic is here to help you. We are a trusted men’s health and family clinic in Singapore specialising in sexual health and STD testing in Singapore. Let our healthcare professionals guide you through the proper steps and treatments necessary to ensure your health. Reach out to us at any time for appointment bookings at 6802 7208.
