Itching

Crabs (Pubic Lice) Symptoms are intense itching and small nits (eggs) on pubic hair. Treat partners of the last 3 months in the same way at the same time with a special cream, shampoo or spray. Wash all clothing and bed linen.

Scabies Symptoms are itching (worse at night) and a rash on the body. Treat partners of the last 3 months in the same way at the same time with a special cream, lotion or ointment. Wash all clothing and bed linen.

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Visible

Genital Warts are fleshy or flat lumps on the genitals. Female partners may have an increased risk of cervical cancer. Condoms provide some, but not total protection.

Genital Herpes are painful, red blisters, little sores or ulcers, showing flu-like symptoms and sometimes discharge. Partners may or may not catch herpes but should be tested. Condoms provide some, but not total protection. Do not have sex when open sores are present.

Syphilis shows painless ulcers usually on genitals, later swollen glands, rash and hair loss. Partners must be tested and if positive treated. Current advice is not to have sex until cleared.

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Pain when peeing

Cystitis Symptoms are a burning sensation when pissing, a need to urinate urgently and more often than usual. Also cloudy, blood stained or smelly urine. Cystitis is much more common in women than men. This is caused by bacteria from the anus getting into the urethra. Treatment requires antibiotics - drink plenty of water.

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Discharge

Bacterial Vaginosis Symptoms are greyish white, smelly vaginal discharge. You get this from changes in the balance in the vagina. Like new sexual partners or increased sexual activity. Oral tablets are the generally the treatment.

Thrush (Candidiasis) Symptoms can include vaginal or vulval itching and a thick, whitish vaginal discharge. This may occur when using antibiotics, if pregnant or when immunity is lowered. Creams aregood for local treatment.

Gonorrhoea Women may have pain during sex, vaginal discharge, lower abdominal pain Partners must be tested & treated. Current advice - no sex.

Trichomoniasis may show a yellowy-green discharge. Partners should be tested.

Chlamydia Women may have pain during sexual intercourse, lower abdominal pain, a change in bleeding pattern. Recent sexual partners need treatment. The best advice is not to have sex until you are cleared. If you do have sex, use a condom.

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