The Better2Know Blog

Pregnant women are just as susceptible to STDs as anyone else who is sexually active. However, the consequences of contracting an STD or carrying an asymptomatic STD while pregnant are considerably more dangerous both for the woman and for her unborn child. Women, particularly when they are pregnant, need to be aware of the risks of sexually transmitted diseases and learn how to protect themselves against them.

There are many different types of tests available to detect Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs). The most likely is a physical examination. The nurse will check your genitalia, or other body parts which may have been infected, for signs of infection.

For genital warts, the signs of infection are visible warts on the cervix, vulva or vaginal wall. This can also be diagnosed through biopsy. Treatments include cryotherapy (freezing), electrocautery (heating), creams or liquids.

A urine test or a swab sample from the urethra should diagnose Chlamydia, of which there are often no visible symptoms. Treatment is by antibiotics which should clear the infection if the course is completed.

Similarly, detection of gonorrhea is via a cell sample from cervix, urethra, rectum or throat. Treatment is also a full course of antibiotics.

The diagnosis of syphilis will be made using a urine sample, blood sample, cell sample of infected area or physical examination. Antibiotics, in tablet or injection form, are used to treat it.

Trichomoniasis is diagnosed through a physical examination when a cell sample is taken or it can be detected through a routine smear test. Treatment is via antibiotics.

HIV testing is done through a sample of blood being examined for HIV antibodies. If these antibodies are detected then the result is HIV positive. A second test should be carried out in order to confirm this result. There is no cure for HIV but drug treatments will be prescribed including antiretroviral drugs which prolong life and inhibit AIDS development.

Syphilis is a bacterial infection and is usually spread during sexual contact, but can also be passed on through intravenous drug use and from an infected pregnant mother to her child. There are three stages in syphilis, which are: Primary, Secondary and Tertiary, and symptoms can be hard to recognise.

Primary Syphilis is the first stage and symptoms can appear between 10 days and three months, but this varies depending on the individual. The most common symptom of syphilis is the appearance of a painless sore, which usually develops on the genitals or rectum, but can also appear on the tongue or lips; these are called chancre. The chancre will usually disappear in a few weeks, and if left untreated, the infection will move onto the secondary stage.

Secondary Syphilis has a range of symptoms that are non-specific and can often be hard to recognise, ranging from, a non-itchy rash covering certain parts of your body such as your hands and feet, tiredness, headaches and swollen lymph glands. These symptoms can disappear in a matter of weeks or can come and go over the course of months.

Tertiary Syphilis will often lay dormant for long periods of time, from years to even decades after the initial stages and can have serious symptoms depending on the part of the body the infection spreads to. Tertiary Syphilis can be extremely dangerous and cause, strokes, paralysis, blindness, deafness and even heart disease.

Since the end of the Second World War, the rate of syphilis fell due to new antibiotics, but over the past decade the number of diagnosed case has increased: there were nearly 2700 new cases of syphilis in the UK during 2008.

Scientists in London have been given a £2 million grant to develop a self-monitoring device for HIV sufferers. The device itself will be similar to the blood-testing devices used by diabetics and will monitor HIV levels, alerting the user about impending flare ups or if they need to see a doctor.

NHS consultant Dr Ann-Maria Goretti said that it will be particularly useful if: “patients neglect to take their treatments or need prompting to see their GP, the device will provide a simple way of letting them know”.

And added that: “It will really empower HIV patients to keep a close eye on their health and their treatments.”

As well as monitoring sufferer’s condition and reducing regular visits to the doctor, this new device can be a benefit to developing countries, where there is a genuine need for fast and affordable ways to monitor HIV patients.

Chlamydia is now the most common sexually transmitted disease in the UK and is particularly dangerous because many people do not even know they have it, with around 50% of men and 70% of women displaying no symptoms of the infection.

Many of the symptoms of Chlamydia are non-specific, but can include: cystitis; vaginal discharge or abdominal pain in women; and urethral discharge from the penis or swollen testes in men.

If Chlamydia is not treated it can cause Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) in women, which can lead to infertility, and in some cases Epididymitis in males, which can also cause infertility.

Because Chlamydia often has no or non-specific symptoms it is advisable to have an STD test if you feel that you are at risk of the infection. This can be done at your local GP clinic, but the results can often take up to 2 weeks and be put on your medical records. However, there are many private STD testing clinics in the UK that are 100% anonymous and confidential, with results given within 2 days.

In a rare number of situations, the infection caused by the herpes simplex virus can spread to additional areas of the body. This happens on occasions where the sores/blisters get infected by germs or bacteria. It is important to remember not to scratch or rub affected areas and then touch other areas of your body. It is actually best not to bother the areas at all, but if you do remember to thoroughly wash your hands straightaway.

As a rule, people tend to think that the herpes simplex virus is much more serious than it really is which can cause emotional stress. In these circumstances it is recommended that you talk with a health professional. Seeking counsel can be very helpful for you and will increase your understanding about the nature of the virus. It is good to know that genital herpes cannot damage the uterus, nor will it cause infertility. Additionally the herpes virus is not a contributing factor to cervical cancer.

Testing for simplex herpes virus can be done easily by a doctor or nurse. They simply swab the area to get a sample of the blistered area to send to the laboratory for testing. Additional screenings can be done at the same time for other sexually transmitted diseases and most STD clinics allow you to maintain anonymity.

There are several treatments and tips that can help you to ease the pain of outbreaks as well as control them; you may read more about this on the Genital Herpes Treatment page.

The strains of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) that have an effect on the skin can be passed from one person to another when an infected person has skin contact with another. HPV that affects the throat and mouth is passed from person to person through kissing. The type of HPV that affects the genital area is spread during intimate, skin to skin contact during sexual intercourse.

A person can have genital HPV for many years without showing any signs or symptoms. Therefore, it is not unlikely for a partner in a lasting relationship to find that they have the virus following medical exams, such as routine cervical screenings.

There have been many cases where a partner may become concerned with whether or not their significant other has been unfaithful after finding that they have the Human Papilloma Virus. Discovering that you have this virus should not lead you to this conclusion. There is no way to determine how long a person has had the virus, and medical professionals will tell you that you could have had the virus for weeks, months, or even years.

As is the case with any STD, the best method for prevention is to practice safe sex. Use a condom, know your partner well, or practice abstinence. It is also important, especially for women, to have regular screenings. The type of HPV that most people are aware of is the strain that affects the cervix. Should cervical HPV go untreated it can develop into cancer, so it is very important that you are tested regularly for this virus.

Millions of people have been stricken with and killed by sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) over the past centuries. In more recent data, studies have shown that STD cases and deaths have shown no signs of slowing down, being a cause of alarm for many worldwide health authorities. Furthermore, in developing nations, such as those in Africa, South America, and some parts of Asia, STDs continue to be a pressing problem. Death rates caused by STDs in these regions are high because of limited access to medical aid, as well as the locals’ lack of awareness on STDs.

The two biggest STD concerns that afflict millions across the globe are HIV and AIDS. HIV is defined as the Human Immunodeficiency Virus, and when the infection progresses in the body, it develops into a serious disease known as AIDS or Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. It has been estimated by the World Health Organization (WHO) that more than 25 million people have died from HIV or AIDS since the virus was isolated by scientists in 1981. At present, there are approximately 33 million people with AIDS or HIV worldwide. What is even more alarming is that every year, there are newly infected individuals, and more than half of those are from the ages 25 and below group.

STD symptoms, particularly those of HIV, can be similar to other conditions. Medical sources say that on the initial stage of infection, it is very difficult to diagnose whether a patient has HIV or not, just by looking at the symptoms, which can range from fatigue, headaches, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and the like. The best way to be truly sure if someone has HIV is to take an HIV test. There are HIV tests in London that can help determine the level of infection, and hopefully indicate if the disease can be treated at that stage. However, it is important to note that HIV testing can be done only after a certain incubation period upon infection, which can be anywhere from three to six months. Within this range, the virus may not be easily detected by tests.

If you are unsure whether or not you have acquired an STD, or may have HIV or AIDS, the smartest thing to do is to consult a health practitioner. Rest assured that your medical professional will treat your issue with utmost discretion. In line with the prevention of STDs, health centers greatly encourage the practice of safe sex, as well as to take STD tests whenever possible.

There are several treatments as well as tips for those that have herpes outbreaks. Doctors may prescribe painkillers to help reduce the pain caused by the blisters or when urinating. There are ointments that can be purchased at pharmacies that can help to reduce itching and pain. The downsides to these ointments are that some find that they have an allergic reaction to them and they may make things worse. It may be wise to test a natural area of the skin prior to applying to blisters. Sometimes icing down the area with an ice pack (or ice wrapped in a towel) may help to sooth the pain. You should not place ice directly on the affected areas.

Drinking plenty of water can help problems during urination. Avoid the use of harsh soaps or bubble baths and clean the area with a soft cloth and warm water, and gently pat dry. Some have found that drying with a hairdryer (on its lowest setting) is more comforting than using a towel. Once an episode has cleared up, it is suggested to use a lubricant as sexual activity can cause a reoccurrence.

The use of antiviral medication may be necessary in some cases. These medications do not eradicate the virus for the body, as once you are infected you will always be a carrier. What the medication does do is stop the virus from growing and can help to keep outbreaks under control. There are several antiviral medications on the market such as Aciclovir, Famciclovir, and Valaciclovir. These medications are most helpful to those experiencing their first outbreak of symptoms as they reduce the length of time as well as the severity experienced. Normally a five day regimen is prescribed; however, if symptoms are persistent you may be on the medication longer.

As far as reoccurrences are concerned, medication may not be necessary for treatment. The reasoning behind this is that sequential outbreaks are not as harsh as the initial outbreak and only last about three days. Should this not be the case for an individual, antiviral medications are prescribed.

Sexually transmitted diseases may be caused by various agents, whether they are bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic. Among the most common STDs caused by bacteria are Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea, which the World Health Organization (WHO) reports afflict millions of new victims every year. Mentioned here are other bacterial STDs, as well as additional information on them.

World AIDS Day is celebrated globally every first of December. Since 1988, this event hopes to increase the awareness for STDs such as HIV and AIDS, which has claimed the lives of millions over the past decades. Like HIV and AIDS, there are also other sexually transmitted diseases that are caused by viruses, and the quest of finding cures for these conditions continues to challenge medical researchers worldwide. Here are some other common viral STDs, including information on STD symptoms, as well as diagnoses and possible forms of treatment.

A lot of people who have become infected with syphilis can go symptom free for years and years, but this does not eliminate the risk of them experiencing complications later on in life if the condition goes untreated. There are three different stages of syphilis: primary, secondary, and tertiary. The disease is passed by people that are in the primary or secondary stage of the disease (where sores are present). However, a person may be unaware of that they are infected and pass the condition along to their partner(s) through sexual intercourse.

Primary stage syphilis is where the infected individual develops single or multiple sores called chancres. From the time of infection symptoms tend to appear within ten to ninety days. These sores are characterized as being small, round, painless, and firm. In general chancres appear at the site where the infection entered the body. The sore remains for three to six weeks and heals on its own. But, if one does not receive treatment the infection will move onto the next stage.

Secondary stage syphilis is marked by skin rashes and lesions of the mucous membranes. Typically, it will start out with the development of a rash in one or more areas of the body. Generally, the rash does not cause irritation or itchiness. These rashes can manifest themselves while primary stage sores are still present or weeks after they have diminished. The rashes that afflict those with secondary syphilis generally are red, rough, or red-brown spots that appear on the palms of your hands or on the bottoms of your feet. Rashes that show up on different parts of the body will have different characteristics and may look similar to rashes caused by other conditions. In many cases the rashes may be very minor and go unnoticed.

Other symptoms that may arise from secondary stage syphilis are: fever, swollen lymph nodes, headaches, unexplained weight loss, achy muscles, chronic fatigue, sore throats, or hair loss (usually patches at a time). The body will resolve the complications of secondary stage syphilis, but if the infection is not treated it will progress to the tertiary stage of the disease.

The tertiary stage, also known as the late or latent stage, of syphilis occurs once the primary and secondary symptoms have cleared up. At this stage a person will continue to carry the infection while there will be no signs or symptoms. Late stage syphilis occurs in approximately fifteen percent of individuals that have not received treatment and can manifest ten to twenty years after being initially infected. The effects of this stage of the disease are damage to organs such as the eyes, brain, nervous system, liver, bones, and joints. This damage will cause symptoms such as poor coordination and impaired movement, paralysis, loss of sight, loss of feeling, and dementia. The damage caused to the body can be severe enough to result in death.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STD) have been plaguing mankind for centuries. With millions of people stricken per year, the incidence of such conditions continues to cause alarm for many countries as well as international organizations. It has been found by researchers that people in developing countries, particularly in Africa and South America, are more prone to acquiring STDs. In line with this, treatments are not easy to obtain in such nations because of limited access to updated medical facilities.

Among the most concerning STDs that continues to afflict millions is HIV, also known as Human Immunodeficiency Virus. First identified and isolated in 1981, this disease, along with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), is said to have caused the deaths of more than 25 million people across the globe, as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO). As of the year 2007, more than 33 million people are estimated to have HIV, and of these statistics, more than half of them are of people aged 25 years old and below, as the WHO states. When the HIV infection is left untreated, symptoms can escalate and develop into AIDS. Despite the attempt for better cures, the number of people with AIDS and HIV worldwide continues to increase.

Because of such concerns, most health facilities and institutions in the United States and around the world recommend STD testing as well as the HIV test for patients who may be prone to these diseases. Because some STD symptoms may be similar to other non-STD related conditions, it is best to have such tests taken, in order for treatment or preventive care to be duly administered. For people who are interested in STD testing, there are many STD clinics that provide such services. While these facilities intend to keep results of tests private, the patient concerned has the choice to grant these STD clinics permission to share the results with research organizations to aid the search for better STD treatments. It is important to note that HIV testing, AIDS testing, or tests for other STDs is highly encouraged for expectant mothers, as this can help avoid the transfer of the disease to the unborn child.

In line with the increasing stats on HIV and AIDS, many medical researches continue to pursue more effective means of alleviating the symptoms of HIV, AIDS, as well as other sexually transmitted diseases. In the end, mankind can expect the absolute cure that will eliminate these illnesses from society. At present, information and prevention are the best means to avoid getting infected.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STD) may be acquired through various modes. Whether it is through direct sexual contact from different partners, transferred via blood, or through non-sterile surgical and medical equipment, anyone is at risk of getting such a disease. One of the best ways of preventing STDs is to make well-informed choices with regards to sexual practices and to undergo STD testing to be sure of one’s condition.

The most effective way to avoid transmitting Syphilis or any STD is to practise abstinence or be in a monogamous relationship where both partners are known to be free of any STDs or STIs (sexually transmitted infections).

When you are worried that you may have contracted an STD, it is important that you get an STD test quickly. Waiting for your results can be stressful for both you and your sexual partner and that is why many people are now choosing private STD testing clinics, as opposed to their local GP.

Gay men are being warned about the risk of contracting HIV as figures show a higher rate of new diagnoses. The Health Protection Agency (HPA) nearly 40% of the 7,370 cases of HIV in 2008 were in gay men; double the number of a decade ago.

Recent studies into sexual behaviour have suggested that there are still high numbers of gay men that engage in unprotected sex, but new diagnoses of HIV within the gay community has fallen slightly over the past few years.

HIV expert at the HPA, Dr Barry Evans said: “Gay men continue to be the group in the UK most at risk of acquiring HIV”.

Adding that, “Safe sex is the best way to protect against HIV infection.”

The figures show that overall new diagnoses had fallen from 7,660 in 2007, and that cases affecting gay men was also down from 3,050 to 2,830, but the HPA was still concerned about the number of late diagnoses, with around 20% of gay men’s diagnoses coming beyond the point when treatment should of started; this greatly increases the chance of death within the first year.

A recent study by disease experts has found that one in four TB deaths are HIV related, nearly double that as previously thought. The World Health Organization says that the co-infection is still a major challenge and that HIV and TB services should join together to treat the conditions in tandem.

Tuberculosis kills more people with HIV than any other disease, but only 1% of people with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus were screened for Tuberculosis in 2008. It is estimated that in 2007 there was 1.37 million new cases of TB in HIV sufferers worldwide and over 450,000 deaths.

Director of the World Health Organization, Dr Margaret Chan said: “These findings point to an urgent need to find, prevent and treat TB in people living with HIV and to test for HIV in all patients with TB”.

And added that: “Countries can only do that through stronger collaborative programmes and stronger health systems that address both diseases.”

According to the Health Protection Agency, UK cases of TB have increase 2% since 2007 rising to 8,679 cases in 2008. London still has the most new diagnoses of TB with 3,415 reported cases in 2008, about 39% of the total for the whole of the UK.

A recent study conducted by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has indicated that one in four teenage girls in the US has an STD (sexually Transmitted Disease). The study, which analysed data from 838 girls between the ages of 14 and 19, also found a higher percentage of STD rates in black girls.

The research found that nearly 50% of the African-American girls studied had at least one sexually transmitted disease, while white and Mexican-American girls with STD’s was around 20%.

Human Papilloma Virus (which causes cervical cancer) was the most common STD, followed by Chlamydia, trichomoniasis and herpes. The CDC has stated that the study is the first of its kind, examining the prevalence of STD’s amongst teenage girls.

A spokesperson from the CDC, Devin Fenton said that the issue was serious and that: “Screening, vaccination and other prevention strategies for sexually active women are among our highest public health priorities”.

The CNC also recommended that there should be an annual Chlamydia screening test for sexually active women under the age of 25, and Human Papilloma Virus vaccines for girls aged 11 and 12.

Gonorrhoea is an extremely infectious sexually transmitted disease. It is caused by a bacteria know as Neisseria Gonorrhoea. It affects the mucous membranes of the genitals which become swollen with no other initial complications. In men and women, symptoms vary. In males, gonorrhoea initiates as an infection of the urethra. In females, it usually attacks the cervix. Should this disease be left untreated, severe medical conditions may arise.

Incidences of gonorrhoea, also known as “the clap”, have declined consistently since the 1980’s. This is attributed to campaigns to educate the public about the risks and complications of becoming infected by STDs. Nonetheless, there are up to one million cases in the UK each year. It is difficult to gauge the actual number of cases because of the privacy afforded to patients that may lead to under-reporting.

Gonorrhoea affects people of all creeds, ages, and social status. However, statistics show that individuals of different age groups are at higher risk than others. Teenagers and young adults (ages 15-29) make up over eighty percent of all reported cases each year. People that engage in sexual intercourse with multiple partners and practice “unsafe sex” are at the highest risk of contracting the disease.

As with most STDs, gonorrhoea is transmitted through an array of sexual activities. Men and women alike can contract the disease through oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse. The disease has a very high rate of transmittal from one person to the next. After just one encounter with an infected male a women will contract the disease up to ninety percent of the time.

If you are worried that you may have contracted an STD such as gonorrhoea, Better2Know is here to help. 100% confidential testing with fast results (one to five days depending on the test), and you don’t even have to give us a name. The sooner you diagnose and treat gonorrhoea the better, so go get tested!

Being HIV positive and pregnant does not automatically mean that your child will develop the virus. If a pregnant woman does not have any treatment for the condition, then the unborn baby has between 20 and 45% chance of being infected with the virus. The virus can be transmitted during the pregnancy through the placenta, during the birth via contact with bodily fluids and can also be passed on through breast milk.

However, in the UK nine out of ten women with the HIV virus are diagnosed before or during pregnancy. Most women are treated with anti-retroviral drugs during their pregnancy and take preventative measures during and after the birth; this can reduce their child’s risk of catching the virus to under 2%.

Having a caesarean section also reduces the risk to the baby, but if the HIV is well managed, a natural birth may not increase the risk either.

Testing a child for HIV is difficult, because every new born baby whose mother is HIV positive has antibodies to the virus in their blood. These antibodies will disappear over time if the child does not have the HIV virus. This can take up to 18 months, so you will not be able to tell for sure if they have contracted the virus until they are nearly two years old.

Better2Know provides private HIV tests that are 100% confidential with fast results.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases, otherwise known as STDs, are a group of diseases that are transmitted through sexual intercourse. Sexual intercourse is defined as anal, vaginal, or oral intercourse. STDs can be bacterial or viral; some can be life threatening, can cause infertility, or severely uncomfortable symptoms, while other STDs may be dormant and show no signs or cause any health related complications until years later.

The medical community reports that sexually transmitted diseases are widespread and affect thousands upon thousands of people throughout the UK and worldwide. Over the last decade the largest increase in incidents of STDs has been in our teenage population.

Educating our society about sexually transmitted diseases, their affects, and prevention measures are the keys to helping our society control the spreading of these conditions. There are many types of STDs that affect one’s health and quality of life in various ways. Some of these diseases do not have a cure and the infected person will be a carrier of the disease for the rest of their lives. A couple of examples of incurable STDs are genital herpes and HIV.

If you are worried about HIV, Better2Know offer HIV Testing in London and many other locations throughout the UK.

Prevention is highly emphasised as the only way to control the spreading of sexually transmitted diseases. Practicing safe sex, knowing your partner’s health history, and abstinence are the best ways to avoid transmitting a viral or bacterial STD. Throughout this site you will learn about the different types of STDs, signs and symptoms you should be aware of, and the various treatment options that are available today.

When first becoming infected with the herpes virus it is possible that you will feel ill with a minor fever, aches, and pains – much like having a common cold or flu. Clusters of little, but painful, blisters will materialize in the genital and/or anal region. The tendency is for the blisters to show up in crops over a one to two week period. They then turn into smaller sores.

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a retrovirus that attacks the immune system and leaves the infected person with a greater risk of contracting a serious infection or disease. The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that there are 33 million sufferers of HIV worldwide, and also estimates that the virus has claimed upward of 25 million lives since the pandemic began in the early 1980’s.

HIV infects CD4 blood cells, which are responsible for fighting infections and once infected, the CD4 cells are destroyed leaving the body open to infections and diseases. In an attempt to stop the virus, the body will try to produce more CD4 cells, which will eventually be destroyed, leading to the immune system stopping.

The HIV virus is particularly prevalent in sub-Sanaran Africa and although not as widespread in the UK, it is still estimated that there are 73,000 people with the infection, with 30% of people not knowing that they have the virus.

The most common way in which the HIV virus is spread is through sexual intercourse and exchanging bodily fluids such as semen, vaginal fluids and blood. This is not the only way of contracting the virus, which can also be spread by sharing intravenous syringes and can be passed onto an unborn baby if the mother is HIV positive; however it is now possible to prevent HIV from being passed from mother to child.

The HIV virus most commonly affect gay men who have had unprotected sex, but it is now estimated that up to one in ten cases of HIV are transmitted during heterosexual sex.

Anyone who feels that they or their partners may be at risk of HIV, must go for a HIV test immediately, using a private HIV testing clinic will ensure that you get your results back within 1 – 2 days; it can take up to 2 weeks to get your HIV results back from your local GP.

If you are worried if you have caught an STD or have multiple partners, it is important that you have an STD test. We know it can be daunting for some, but here at Better2Know, we offer private STD and HIV testing clinics all over the UK.

Better2Know have more STD testing clinics in London than any other STD testing provider, with sites at Canary Warf, Oxford Street and Wimbledon to name a few, as well as STD clinics in Liverpool, Manchester, Cardiff and Edinburgh. Please check the locations page for your local STD clinic.

All STD and HIV tests are 100% anonymous and confidential, no medical records are kept and no information is shared with third parties. You can also give us a false name if you would prefer, as long as your contact details are correct so we can give you your results. Please note that if you get tested through your NHS doctor, the results will go onto your medical record.

Getting your STD results back is also easier with Better2Know; our doctors can provide you with your STD results within 2 days and HIV test results can be done instantly, taking the load of your mind. NHS and local GP results can take up to 2 weeks.

Anyone who has multiple partners is advised to have regular STD tests, and people who have been diagnosed with an STD are advised to get a full STD test as there is a bigger risk of having another STD.

The Human Papilloma Virus, known as HPV, affects the epidermis and certain membranes that line different areas of the body such as the inside layer of the throat or mouth, the cervix, or the anus.

In the past few years, the UK has experienced a significant number of reported cases of sexually transmitted infections. For instance, between the years of 1995 and 2005 the number of people who were diagnosed with Chlamydia tripled. Other common STIs are: genital herpes, hepatitis B, non-specific urethritis, trichomoniasis, pubic lice, syphilis, HIV, and gonorrhoea.

If you should have any of the following symptoms you may have a STI:

• Abnormal discharge from the anus, penis, or vagina.
• In women – bleeding between periods or after sex.
• Discomfort during urination.
• Increased frequency in urination.
• Lower abdominal pain or pain in the pelvic region.
• Infection in the throat or rectum.

It is also possible that you have an STI without any noticeable symptoms as some infections can remain dormant for several years. If you feel that you are at risk of having an STI you should take the time to be tested. If STIs are left untreated and allowed to run their course they can cause many unwanted complications later on in life. Female specific complications may include Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, ectopic pregnancies, and infertility. Complications for men may include pain during erections or inflammation of the testicles and prostate gland.

Generally, STIs are brought on by harmful bacteria or viruses that are passed during sexual intercourse or intimate bodily contact. This includes genital contact, sexual intercourse, sharing sex toys, and oral sex. Those that have multiple sexual partners are at greater risk of transmitting a STI.

In a drive to encourage more 16 to 24 year old people to be screened for Chlamydia, NHS Hounslow has turned to the internet and text messages. The London based care trust has set up an online service allowing its residents to request a Chlamydia self-testing kit; the results can then be received by text message, a phone call or by letter.

The NHS Hounslow care trust looks after the health of more than 200,000 residents living is West London and is writing to 19,500 young people to tell them about the new service. A spokesperson for the trust said: “Once you get the postal kit you need to give a urine or swab sample, which is then sent to a laboratory.”

Adding that, “The results are sent back by either text message or call or letter. If the result does come back ‘positive’, it is easily treated with one dose of antibiotics. I also advise that they make sure that their sexual partner also gets tested, as they may also need to be treated.”

Chlamydia is the most common STD in the UK amongst 16 to 24 year olds and the Hounslow trust hopes that its new electronic service will offer a more discreet way for young people to get tested.

Many STD’s are asymptomatic for long periods, which mean that many people don’t even know that they have an infection. Undiagnosed STD’s can cause serious additional medical risks in both males and females and this is why you should have a STD test if you are worried that you have an infection or have multiple partners.

If untreated, Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD’s) such as Chlamydia and gonorrhoea can cause infertility in both men and women, and could increase the risk of a miscarriage or premature births during pregnancy.

There is also an increased risk of cancer for both sexes; men who have a history of gonorrhoea are more likely to develop prostate cancer, whereas women with a history of HPV (genital warts) are more likely to develop cervical cancer.

If you have been diagnosed with an STD, it is important to have a full STD test, as there is an increased risk of having other sexually transmitted infections. There is also a risk of the infection being passed onto a child during labour; this can be a serious problem and can cause adverse health conditions such as severe neurological damage, blindness and even death.

If you are worried about STD’s, it is important you book an STD test. Better2Know can provide a range of STD tests, including the Full STD Screen and the Peace of Mind Screen.

In a recent study by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, it states that there has been a surge of syphilis cases in Japan over the past few years. After the Second World War, the rate of syphilis sufferers was greatly reduced, thanks to advancements in antibiotics, but the rate of syphilis cases has risen by nearly 100 new cases each year since 2003.

The groups with the highest increases of syphilis were males aged between 35 and 39, and females aged between 20 and 24. The increase in the number of women diagnosed with syphilis has tripled since 2003.

Talking about the study, Koji Saida, from a maternity clinic in Osaka said: “The cause is probably the trend for more sexual partners. Sales of condoms are down, and the increase in syphilis infection would seem to correlate with this,”

Syphilis is caused by a bacterial organism called treponema pallidum and is passed on through close contact with an infected area. It is usually passed on through unprotected sex, oral sex or by sharing sex toys, but can also be spread by sharing intravenous needles if you are a drug taker.