Find out about the main symptoms of the different sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and see a doctor in good time. 

Safer sex protects you against STDs.

Sexually transmitted diseases include all diseases that are primarily passed on during sex. At first, they often go unnoticed. Many people are unaware that they have caught an STD and go on to infect other people.

Main symptoms of STDs

• Burning sensation when urinating
• Unusual red colouring of genitals
• Itchiness of genitals
• Unusual, conspicuous discharge from the vagina or penis
• Pain in the genital area or lower abdomen
• Skin conditions, including inflamed patches, flaky skin, spots, warts, small lumps, ulcers in the genital area (penis, vagina, anus) or swollen lymph nodes in the groin.

If you notice one or several of these symptoms, you are strongly advised to consult a doctor. As a rule, STDs can be cured and are typically harmless if treated with medication early on. 

However, if they are left untreated, they may result in serious infections, infertility, an increased risk of cancer or even brain damage. 

Let your partner know to give them a chance to get checked out and get treatment if necessary – even if you merely suspect that you might have an infection. 

Only a condom will protect you from infection! 

Aside from the HI virus, there are a number of other pathogens that can be transmitted during sex, among them viruses, bacteria and fungi: 

• Fungal infection
• Bacterial infection
• Gonorrhoea
• Chlamydia
• Cystitis

If you suspect that you may have caught a sexually transmitted disease, see a doctor as soon as possible. Your treatment will be easier and has a greater chance of success. And the consequences will be less severe. 

It is important to take symptoms seriously. Untreated infections may result in infertility.