Getting Back to Dating and STIs

As we come out of lockdown and get back to normal there are many things that we have had to put on hold for the past eighteen months. One of these is of course dating in real life. As we get back out on the hunt for our dream partner however it is important to be aware of other infections besides covid – STIs.

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If you think you are suffering from an STI or a sexual partner (current or previous) has one, see your doctor, or test at home with one of these Home STI kits Bexley.

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Here are five of the most common STIs in the UK to look out for…

Chlamydia – This bacterial infection is one of the most common and can be dangerous due to the fact that it can remain symptomless for some time. Common symptoms are pain in the lower abdomen, pain when urinating or unusual discharge.

Gonorrhoea – The main sign of this is a thick discharge which can be a greenish yellow. As well as causing infertility if left untreated, this can also lead to blindness in babies if the mother is infected, so being treated quickly is very important.

Genital Herpes – The signs of this include sore blisters in the genital area, as well as tingling or itching around the area. As this is a viral infection rather than bacterial, antibiotics won’t work, but doctors can prescribe antivirals to reduce the symptoms and discomfort.

Genital Warts – Symptoms of this will be lumps and bumps around the genital area, and you might notice itching also in the area. Like herpes, this is a viral infection, but the warts can be frozen off or treated with a cream.

Syphilis – Signs of this include a rash or ulcers in the genitals as well as swollen glands in the body and a feeling of being tired or run down. It is treatable with antibiotics but it will not go away on its own, so it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible.