Emergent Sexually Transmitted Infection Assessment and Treatment

Chlamydia

Over 1.5 million cases of Chlamydia were reported to the CDC in 2021, making it the most common notifiable sexually transmitted infection in the United States for that year.

As with other STDs, you can get chlamydia by having vaginal, anal, or oral sex, and women with chlamydia can pass the infection to their babies during childbirth. Chlamydia can cause infection in both men and women but in women, an infection can result in permanent damage to the reproductive system. This can make it difficult or impossible to get pregnant later on. Chlamydia can be symptomless but when symptoms do occur it includes abnormal, discolored discharge or a burning sensation when passing urine.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is an STD that can cause infection in the genitals, rectum, and throat. It is very common, particularly among young people ages 15-24 years. Like chlamydia, individuals who have been infected with gonorrhea usually show no signs or symptoms. If symptoms do appear, these include pain or burning during urination, an abnormal discharge from the penis, vagina, or anus, and swelling in the testicles.

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is caused by the parasite trichomonas vaginalis. It is another STD that usually occurs without symptoms. Only 30% of people who are infected with trichomonas will go on to develop symptoms. If symptoms are present, they usually, appear as large amounts of yellow-green vaginal discharge and pain during sexual intercourse.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is an infection of the liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Symptoms usually appear about 1 to 4 months after infection and include pale-colored stools, dark urine, tummy pain, fever, weakness, nausea, and vomiting. If you suspect that you have been exposed to Hepatitis B either through shared needle use or have had sex with a person infected with Hepatitis B, be sure to see a doctor.

Most people with Hepatitis B will get better after a few months but prompt treatment and vaccination are important.

Syphilis

Although syphilis is a less well-known STD it can cause major health problems if left untreated. Anyone can get syphilis through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Infection with syphilis does not always produce symptoms but if symptoms do occur, this first shows up as a painless, round, and red sore that can appear anywhere— typically on the genitals, rectum, or mouth.

If you have reason to suspect that you may have contracted syphilis, be sure to get tested immediately.

HIV

HIV is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system. If HIV is not treated promptly it can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). Symptoms of HIV will vary. Some will have flu-like symptoms within 2 to 4 weeks after infection. As the infection progresses other symptoms such as fatigue, night sweats, muscle aches, and swollen
lymph nodes may occur. Other individuals experience no symptoms at all. The only way to know if you have HIV is to get tested.

The CDC recommends that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 gets tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care.

The management of HIV today is significantly better than it was in years past but quick diagnosis and treatment are essential. Speak to a healthcare provider if you notice these symptoms or have reason to believe that you may have been exposed to HIV.