Not only are the symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases unpleasant, but if left untreated, the diseases can also have serious health consequences. We explain to you which 5 sexually transmitted diseases are visible on the skin and how you can recognize them.
According to experts, awareness of STDs has declined in recent years. This is a dangerous development because, in the worst case, it can lead to serious infertility problems. Among other things, sexually transmitted diseases express themselves through changes in the skin such as skin rashes, itching or skin injuries that do not heal. We explain which 5 sexually transmitted diseases you can recognize on the skin.
Table of Contents
5 STDs that are visible on the skin
- Gonorrhea (gonorrhea)
Gonorrhea, commonly known as gonorrhea, is a reportable sexually transmitted disease. Since the pathogens (gonococci) are very sensitive, the sexually transmitted disease cannot be transmitted via the toilet and the like. A symptom-free course is characteristic of the gonorrhea. However, both women and men often experience burning when urinating and itching. A whitish discharge may also occur in women. If the disease progresses and the pathogens enter the bloodstream, it can also be noticed by skin rashes and other symptoms such as fever. A gonorrhea should always be treated quickly as it can lead to infertility. - Syphilis
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease transmitted by bacteria. A typical symptom of the disease is the non-itching rash, which usually appears on the stomach, chest or back – these are small light to dark red spots or nodules. In women, the nodules usually develop on the labia, the vaginal vestibule or the clitoris. If syphilis is not treated with antibiotics at this stage, in the worst case it can even spread to the organs and attack the nervous system. - Chlamydia With around 300,000 new infections every year,
Chlamydia is the most widespread sexually transmitted disease in Germany. The disease is caused by bacteria and is characterized by itching, inflammation of the mucous membrane and pain when urinating, which can also occur together with pain in the lower abdomen. Chlamydia infection should be treated with antibiotics as it can also promote infertility or ectopic pregnancy. The infection is dangerous because it can also be symptom-free and remains undetected for so long. - Genital warts Genital
warts are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV), which is also responsible for the development of cervical cancer . These are pin-sized papules in the genital or anal area, which, if they appear externally, can usually be treated by the person affected. There are special solutions and creams for this. As a rule, genital warts are harmless, but they can cause itchy inflammation in the anal area. - Genital herpes
Most people know herpes as blisters in the mouth area. However, the herpes simplex virus can also cause itchy, burning blisters in the intimate area. These occur in groups and can tear, ooze and then form a crust. The disease is considered to be very painful and can also be associated with pain when urinating in women.
Also interesting: Recognizing STDs – Symptoms and Treatment >>
Sexually transmitted diseases: Visible not only on the skin in the genital area
according to dr medical Alice Martin, doctor and co-founder of the online dermatology practice dermanostic , venereal diseases are not only expressed through symptoms in the genitals. She explains: “The pathogens can also affect the mucous membranes of the mouth, anus, throat, eyes, but also all over the skin and cause symptoms there.”
