Here at Freia Medical, we offer screening and treatment services for both male and female patients.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are infections commonly spread through sexual contact including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. They can affect anyone who is sexually active. Some STIs can also be spread through non-sexual means, such as blood transfusions or shared needles.
Common Types of STIs
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
- Syphilis
- Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)
- Hepatitis B and C
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Trichomoniasis
- Other non-gonococcal organisms such as Mycoplasma genitalium
Symptoms of STIs
Symptoms can vary widely depending on the type of infection. Some individuals may not exhibit any symptoms, making regular screening important.
Common Symptoms in Males
- Urethritis (usually by the bacterial infections): Painful urination, discharge from the penis, testicular pain, itching or irritation inside the penis, burning after urination or ejaculation
- Ulcers: Painless sores on the genitals, rash, fever, swollen lymph nodes in Syphilis. Painful blisters or ulcers on the genitals or mouth in Herpes.
- Skin growths: Genital warts by HPV, which may be small or large, raised or flat
- Constitutional symptoms: Flu-like symptoms, swollen lymph nodes, fever, sore throat (e.g in HIV)
Common Symptoms in Females
- Urethritis and Vaginitis: Painful urination, abnormal vaginal discharge, pelvic pain
- Ulcers: Painless sores on the genitals, rash, fever, swollen lymph nodes in Syphilis. Painful blisters or ulcers on the genitals or mouth in Herpes.
- Skin growths: Genital warts by HPV, which may be small or large, raised or flat; abnormal Pap smear
- Constitutional symptoms: Flu-like symptoms, swollen lymph nodes, fever, sore throat (e.g in HIV)
Diagnosis of STIs
Diagnosing STIs involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests.
- Medical History: Discussing symptoms, sexual history, and any potential exposure
- Physical Examination: Inspecting the genital area for sores, warts, or discharge
- Laboratory Tests: Urine tests, blood tests, swabs from the genital area, or Pap smears
Treatment Options for STIs
Treatment depends on the type of STI and may involve medications, lifestyle changes, and follow-up care.
Bacterial STIs
- Antibiotics: Effective for treating bacterial infections like Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Syphilis
Viral STIs
- Antiviral Medications: Used to manage symptoms and reduce transmission risk for infections like Herpes and HIV
- HPV Vaccine: Prevents HPV infections and associated cancers
Follow-Up and Management
Regular follow-up is important to ensure the infection is cleared and to monitor for any complications.
- Retesting: Follow-up testing to ensure the infection has been successfully treated
- Partner Notification: Informing sexual partners so they can also be tested and treated if necessary
- Preventive Measures: Education on safe sex practices to prevent reinfection and transmission
Prevention of STIs
Preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of contracting or spreading STIs.
- Safe Sex Practices: Using condoms consistently and correctly
- Regular Screenings: Routine STI testing for sexually active individuals
- Vaccination: HPV and Hepatitis B vaccines
- Communication: Open and honest communication with sexual partners about STI status and history
Empower Yourself
Understanding STIs and taking preventive measures can protect your health and the health of your partners. If you are sexually active, regular screenings and safe sex practices are crucial. Dr Chester Lan is here at Freia Medical (Wisma Atria) for personalized diagnosis and treatment.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, you can call in at 6735 8180, Whatsapp us at 8223 0609, email us at info@freia.sg, or book a consultation online at https://freia.sg/appointments/