Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can affect both men and women and can cause a variety of symptoms and effects. It is important to note that not everyone who has an STI will necessarily develop symptoms. Symptoms can also vary in severity from person to person. The symptoms listed below can also be attributed to other health problems. For this reason, it is recommended that you get STI tests done regularly.

1. Chlamydia (Chlamydia trachomatis) – symptoms and effects:

Chlamydia (Chlamydia trachomatis) are a group of bacteria that can cause various infections in the urinary and genital tract. Types D-K in particular are specifically responsible for chlamydia infections in this area. These infections manifest themselves, for example, as inflammation of the cervix (cervicitis) or inflammation of the ureter (urethritis) with symptoms such as burning when urinating or discharge.

In men: Typical symptoms in men are pain when urinating and abnormal discharge from the penis. If the infection is left untreated, the bacteria can spread and cause inflammation of the prostate or the internal female reproductive organs, which can ultimately lead to infertility. In addition, so-called swimming pool conjunctivitis can occur, an inflammation of the conjunctiva that can be transmitted through contact with water.

In women: The infection often occurs without any obvious symptoms in women, which is why they can be carriers without realizing it. Such an infection is particularly dangerous during pregnancy, as the unborn child can be harmed. Another form of chlamydia, namely types L1-L3, leads to the sexually transmitted disease "lymphogranuloma inguinale". This disease manifests itself in swollen lymph nodes in the groin area and occurs primarily in tropical and subtropical regions.

2. Gonorrhea (Neisseria gonorrhoeae) – symptoms and effects:

The sexually transmitted disease gonorrhea, which is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, manifests itself in various symptoms and effects that vary depending on gender.

In men: During the acute phase, about 2-7 days after infection, men may experience symptoms such as urethritis. This is characterized by itching, purulent discharge, painful urination and frequent urination. However, some men may not notice any symptoms for up to a month. If the infection is left untreated, there is a risk of inflammation of the prostate in the chronic phase.

In women: In women, the infection can also occur without symptoms, meaning that the disease can remain undetected for a long time. Alternatively, local inflammatory reactions can occur that affect the bladder or female sexual organs such as the ovaries. In the worst case, such inflammations can lead to infertility.

3. HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)

The acute infection often goes undetected because it causes no symptoms or non-specific flu-like symptoms in both men and women. If left untreated, a silent phase of the disease lasts for years. This later develops into the symptomatic stage of AIDS, which manifests itself as a severe impairment of the immune system in both men and women. The resulting infections can affect various organs.

4. Hepatitis C

During the initial infection, both men and women often have mild or no symptoms for 4 – 12 weeks after infection.

Occasionally, flu-like symptoms, dark urine, abdominal pain and yellow skin may occur. The virus remains in the liver of most people who are initially infected and later leads to a chronic infection that usually does not cause any significant symptoms. Over many years, however, it can lead to liver disease and, as a complication, to cirrhosis, in which the liver gradually loses its function.

5. Syphilis (Lues)

About 2-3 weeks after infection with syphilis, both men and women may experience swelling of the lymph nodes in the genital area. This is often accompanied by painless lesions of the mucous membranes of the genitals, which usually heal on their own.

During vaginal intercourse, these injuries can occur on the penis, labia, or vagina. During oral sex, mucous membrane injuries in the mouth or throat are possible, while during anal sex, the rectum may be affected. In later stages of the infection, a rash may appear on the hands and feet. If the infection is left untreated, it can stay in the body for years and damage all organs.

Such an infection is particularly dangerous during pregnancy, as it can cause serious harm to the unborn child.