Sexually transmitted diseases or STDs, refer to infections that are transmitted through sexual contact. There are different types of STDs, and each presents itself in different ways.

While most STDs do not cause any noticeable symptoms, one can experience different symptoms depending on the specific kind of STD they have contracted. In this article, we will explore the different ways STDs present themselves.

1. Genital herpes

Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 or HSV-2). This STD is characterized by the presence of painful sores or blisters around the genital area. These sores are filled with fluid and can be very painful.

They can also be accompanied by fever, headache, and swollen lymph nodes. Herpes outbreaks tend to occur periodically and can be triggered by stress, illness, and other factors.

2. Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that is contracted through sexual contact. It is characterized by an unusual discharge from the genital area, pain during urination, and pain or bleeding during sexual intercourse.

However, many people with chlamydia may not experience any symptoms at all, which can lead to the infection spreading to their partners unknowingly.

3. Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is another bacterial infection that is contracted through sexual contact. The symptoms of gonorrhea include a burning sensation during urination, unusual discharge from the genitals, and pain or bleeding during sexual intercourse.

However, like chlamydia, many people with gonorrhea may not experience any symptoms at all.

4. Syphilis

Syphilis is caused by a bacterium known as Treponema pallidum. It is characterized by the presence of sores around the genital area, anus, or mouth. These sores can be painless and can go unnoticed.

Other symptoms of syphilis include rash, fever, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes. If left untreated, syphilis can cause serious complications such as blindness, deafness, and heart disease.

5. Human papillomavirus (HPV)

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a viral infection that can be transmitted through sexual contact. HPV is the most common STD, and most sexually active people will contract it at some point in their lives.

While many people with HPV may not experience any symptoms at all, some strains of HPV can cause genital warts. Other strains of HPV can cause cervical cancer, anal cancer, and other forms of cancer.

6. HIV/AIDS

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a viral infection that attacks the immune system. Without treatment, HIV can progress to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), which is a life-threatening condition.

The symptoms of HIV/AIDS can vary widely, and some people may not experience any symptoms at all. However, common symptoms include fever, fatigue, weight loss, swollen lymph nodes, and night sweats.

7. Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is caused by a parasite known as Trichomonas vaginalis. It is characterized by an unusual discharge from the genitals, itching or burning sensation around the genital area, and pain during urination or sexual intercourse.

However, many people with trichomoniasis may not experience any symptoms at all.

8. Hepatitis B/C

Hepatitis B and C are viral infections that can be transmitted through sexual contact. Hepatitis B and C can cause liver damage, liver disease, and liver cancer.

Symptoms of hepatitis B and C can include fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).

9. Pubic lice (crabs)

Pubic lice, also known as crabs, are tiny insects that live in pubic hair. Pubic lice are transmitted through sexual contact. Symptoms of pubic lice include itching around the genital area and visible lice or eggs in pubic hair.

10. Molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral infection that can be transmitted through sexual contact. The infection causes small, raised bumps around the genital area. These bumps may be painless and can go unnoticed for long periods of time.