Sexual Health Screening

Regular monitoring of your sexual health is essential if you want to identify the presence of STI's early. STI's can produce a very wide range of symptoms or none at all.

Any of the following signs and symptoms could be the result of an infection with an STI:
Unusual discharge from the vagina, anus or penis
Pain when passing urine
Sore or red vulva, vagina or perineum
Sores, ulcers, itching or growths on or around the genitals
Swollen glands
Rashes
Sore throat
Pain, sores, itching or lumps in the anus and rectum
Diarrhoea
Pain or cramps in the gut or womb area
Excessive wind in the gut
Whitish poo
Unusual or strong odours from the vagina, penis or anus
None of the above


However, as it is possible to be infected with an STI and yet have no signs or symptoms at all it is advisable to have occasional check-ups even if you feel completely well, if may have been exposed to contracting an STI. Many diseases may not have clear symptoms and early identification of infection can prevent long-term health problems. Similarly, some symptoms may remain hidden or disguised therefore not noticed by the individual or his or her sexual partners.

Women in particular are likely to experience no symptoms from many STI's, and are consequently much more vulnerable to their long-term complications. Therefore, frequent full gynaecological check-ups are strongly recommended. How often you decide to go for a check up will obviously depend on how often you have sex with new partners and what you do with them sexually. Due to this, a full sexual health screening is recommended annually for sexually active people.