Pharmacists have issued a stark warning about sexually transmitted infections in the UK as rates continue to increase.
Cases of certain STIs - such as gonorrhoea - have reached record highs, making it even more important for people to be aware of the signs and know what to do to prevent them.There are a number of red flag symptoms that may be an indicator of anSTI, but by getting them checked out by a GP, they can often be treated.
To help people become more aware of the dangers that STIs can pose, pharmacists from Now Patient have put together a list of the most common symptoms.
They have also revealed the five crucial steps to follow if you think you've caught an infection, in order to remain as safe as possible.
Most common STI symptoms
According to the experts, five of the most common STI symptoms are:
Blisters and sores around your genitals
Pain when urinating
A rash
Unusual discharge from your genitals
Itchy genitals
If you think you have an STI
It's vital that you take all the right actions if you're worried you've caught a sexually transmitted infection.
According to the experts, there are five steps that you should follow in this event, in order to remain safe and give your body the best chance of fighting the condition.
1. Get tested
It’s important that if you have more than one sexual partner, you’re getting tested on a regular basis. If you think you have an STI, don’t hesitate to visit your local sexual health clinic as the sooner you receive the results, the quicker the treatment can happen.
2. Inform your sexual partners
If you think you have an STI then it might not just be you who is affected, so you need to let your sexual partners know. In these circumstances, it’s always best to be honest as there’s nothing to be ashamed of and it’s important to get tested and treated asap.
3. Refrain from having sex
Until you receive a negative test result then it’s vital you refrain from any sexual activity, as this will reduce the chances of someone else potentially catching the infection. If you do end up having intercourse then it’s crucial that a condom is worn by yourself or your partner.
4. Take medication
If the results from your test are positive, then it’s more than likely a sexual health practitioner will be in contact to discuss the next steps and to advise you on any medication you should take. It’s essential to keep on top of medication as this will help clear the infection.
5. Get tested (again!)
Even if you’ve finished the course of medication prescribed to help treat your STI, there is still a chance that the infection might not have gone completely, so it’s essential to get tested again. After all, it’s better to be safe than think you’re in the clear when you're not.
Navin Khosla, Pharmacist at Now Patient has revealed the importance of practising safe sex and getting tested for STIs regularly.
He said: "Whether you’re in a long-term relationship or have casual sexual partners, it's essential you practice safe sex by using a contraception method that suits you best, whether that be the pill or the coil, however, these forms of contraception will lower the chances of the female partner falling pregnant, but won’t prevent STIs.
"To minimise the risks of catching an STI, using a condom is the best method of protection, so it’s important to use one during intercourse.
"If you have had intercourse and failed to use protection and are concerned that you may have caught an STI, the most common symptoms to look out for are rashes, unusual discharge coming from the genitals, an itching sensation and pain when urinating.
"If you develop any of these symptoms then it’s essential you refrain from having sex and go and get tested at your local clinic and wait until you are given negative results before having sex again."
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our newsletter here.
