Sexually Transmitted Infections can cause a range of symptoms, the most common being:

-pain passing urine

-discharge from the end of the penis or rectum

- change in vaginal discharge

- bleeding between periods or after sex

- abdominal, rectal or testicular pain

- painful or persistent genital ulcers

- genital skin lumps or rash

Recently acquired HIV or Syphilis can present with a ‘viral illness’ e.g. sore throat, fever, rash, headache.

Many people with a Sexually Transmitted Infection do not have any symptoms. It is therefore advisable to be screen for the most common/potentially serious infections before starting a sexual relationship with a new partner. If you are someone who changes partner regularly, screening every 3 to 6 months, even if you don’t have any symptoms is generally recommended.

In England, it is recommended that all people aged under 25 who have had sex have a screen for Chlamydia annually.