Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): Testing, Symptoms, and Treatment

Sexual health is part of your overall health, but many women feel nervous or unsure about talking about it. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms or just want peace of mind, timely and confidential care is key.

At Happiher, we offer private, non-judgmental and confidential support for women who want advice, screening or treatment for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). If you’re looking for a private gynaecologist in London who offers sexual health care, you’re in the right place.

What are Sexually Transmitted Diseases?

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) — also known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) — are infections passed from one person to another through sexual contact. They can affect anyone who is sexually active, regardless of age or relationship status.

Common STDs include:

• Chlamydia

• Gonorrhoea

• Human papillomavirus (HPV)

• Genital herpes (HSV)

• Trichomoniasis

• Syphilis

• HIV

• Hepatitis B and C

Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis, which is transmitted during sexual contact.

Many of these infections, such as chlamydia infections and genital warts, are transmitted through vaginal or anal sex.

Some STDs are caused by bacteria (and can be treated with antibiotics), others are viral and require ongoing management or vaccination. Hepatitis C is a serious liver infection that can be transmitted through infected blood. Gonorrhoea can cause infections not only in the genitals but also in the rectum and throat.

Introduction to Sexually Transmitted Infections - Causes and Risk Factors

STIs are caused by the transmission of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses or parasites, through bodily fluids, including blood, semen, vaginal fluids and saliva. The risk factors for STIs include having unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners and a history of previous STIs. Other risk factors include a weakened immune system, using intravenous drugs and being pregnant or breastfeeding. Some STIs, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and herpes simplex virus (HSV) can also be transmitted through skin to skin contact or from mother to child during pregnancy or childbirth, with HIV attacking the body’s immune system and leading to severe health consequences. Syphilis can spread from an infected mother to her unborn baby during pregnancy or childbirth. Knowing these risk factors can help you protect yourself from STIs.

Types of Infections

There are many types of STIs, bacterial, viral and parasitic. Some common types of STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, genital herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV) and HIV. Genital herpes is caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) or herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) with HSV-2 being more commonly associated with genital infections. Each type of STI has its own symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. For example bacterial STIs such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea can be treated with antibiotics, viral STIs such as HIV and HPV require antiviral medications. Chlamydia is the most common bacterial STI in the US with an estimated 1.6 million new cases diagnosed each year. You should get tested regularly and seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen over time.

Common Symptoms of Sexually Transmitted Infections in Women

STDs don’t always cause symptoms — which is why testing is important, especially after a new partner or if your current partner has other partners. Most sexually transmitted infections can cause no symptoms or only mild symptoms which means you can transmit them to others.

When symptoms do occur they may include:

• Unusual vaginal discharge

• Burning or pain during urination

• Pain during or after sex

• Genital itching or irritation

• Genital sores, blisters or lumps

• Irregular bleeding (e.g. after sex)* Lower abdominal pain or pelvic pain which can be a sign of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

• Flu-like symptoms such as headaches, muscle aches, fever and swollen lymph nodes

If left untreated some STIs can lead to serious complications like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility or long term pelvic pain — even if you feel fine.

Health Problems Associated with STIs

When Should You Get Tested?

You should get tested if:

• You have a new sexual partner

• You’ve had unprotected sex (vaginal, oral or anal)

• You or your partner have symptoms

• A previous partner tests positive

• You want to stop using condoms and test for peace of mind

• You’re planning a pregnancy

• You haven’t had a recent sexual health screen

• You have had sex with an infected person

A health professional is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment of STIs.

At Happiher we offer private STI testing in London with same week appointments and discreet results.

Types of STD Testing for Genital Herpes

Depending on your needs and concerns we may recommend:

• Vaginal or cervical swabs for chlamydia, gonorrhoea, trichomoniasis

• Blood tests for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B and C. Blood tests can also detect secondary syphilis and early detection is crucial to prevent congenital syphilis in pregnant women.

• Urine tests (less commonly used for women)

• HPV testing during a cervical smear. Regular HPV testing is important for early detection of abnormal changes that could lead to cervical cancer.

• Physical examination if you have visible symptoms (only with your consent)

You can be tested even if you have no symptoms. Results are usually available within a few days.

Diagnosis and Treatment of STIs

Preventing STIs requires education, awareness and safe practices. Effective disease control involves education and early intervention to prevent STIs. Some ways to prevent STIs include using latex condoms consistently and correctly, limiting the number of sexual partners and getting vaccinated against certain STIs such as HPV and hepatitis B. Getting tested regularly and seeking medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen over time can help prevent STIs. Also communicating openly with sexual partners about STIs and avoiding risky sexual behaviour such as unprotected sex or sex with multiple partners. STIs disproportionately affect medically underserved populations so increased awareness and intervention is needed. By taking these steps you can reduce your risk of getting an STI and protect your sexual and reproductive health.

Living with an Infection

Living with an STI can be tough physically and emotionally. For people with HIV opportunistic infections are common in advanced stages of the disease and require specific treatment plans. Many STIs can cause mild symptoms such as unusual discharge or pelvic pain while others can cause more severe symptoms such as abdominal pain, rectal pain or swollen lymph nodes. If left untreated STIs can lead to serious health problems such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility and increased risk of HIV transmission. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen over time and follow the treatment plan recommended by your healthcare professional. Also living with an STI means communicating openly with your sexual partners about your infection and taking steps to prevent transmission such as using condoms or abstaining from sex. By taking these steps you can manage your infection and protect your overall health and wellbeing.

Emotional and Relationship Support

Getting an STI diagnosis can be stressful or upsetting — but you’re not alone. Discussing the risks of transmission with an infected partner is key to a healthy relationship. We approach every conversation with compassion, sensitivity and discretion.

Whether you need emotional reassurance, guidance on talking to a partner or follow up care we provide a safe space to ask anything.

Confidentiality and Privacy

At Happiher all consultations and test results are completely confidential. Nothing is shared with your GP or partner unless you request it. We aim to create a trusted professional environment where your comfort is our priority.

Why Choose Happiher for STD Testing and Treatment?

Looking for private STD testing in London? Happiher offers:

• Same week appointments with a consultant gynaecologist

• Expert, non-judgemental care

• Discreet and confidential results

• Personalised treatment and follow up

• Sexual health education and vaccination support

• Collaboration with infectious disease specialists and other healthcare professionals for comprehensive care

Whether you have symptoms or just want peace of mind expert care is available — no long waits or uncomfortable clinics.

Conclusion

In conclusion STIs are a public health issue affecting millions of people worldwide. Practicing safe sex and getting regular check ups are key to preventing STIs. Knowing the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options empowers you to take control of your sexual and reproductive health. Being aware of the risks and consequences of STIs means you can make informed decisions about your sex life and take proactive steps to protect yourself and your partners. Remember many STIs can be treated and cured but prompt medical attention and adherence to treatment is key. If you think you have an STI or have been exposed to one see a healthcare professional for advice and support. Together we can reduce the incidence of STIs and promote healthy sex.

Final Thoughts

Sexual health is nothing to be ashamed of — it’s part of your overall wellbeing. Regular testing, early treatment and informed conversations can prevent complications and protect your future health.

At Happiher we’re here to support you with clarity, confidentiality and compassion — every step of the way.