Important
The signs of an STI are not always obvious. Only a test provides clarity. If you notice changes or pain in the anal or genital area, it’s important you quickly seek medical advice. Most STIs are curable or can be effectively treated.
Itching, pain in the genital area, discharge from the penis or vagina, a rash, swelling of the lymph nodes, a high temperature – the symptoms of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can vary widely. If you feel unwell or have symptoms days or weeks after sex, it’s worth getting tested and seeking advice.
- HIV symptoms
- The most common symptoms of a primary HIV infection
- Symptoms of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- The most common symptoms of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Counselling
HIV symptoms
In many people – but not everyone – the early stages of an HIV infection (also called primary infection) are characterised by flu-like symptoms. So get yourself tested if you have flu-like symptoms a few days to several weeks after an HIV risk situation.
The most common symptoms of a primary HIV infection
- High temperature
- Tiredness, fatigue
- Night sweats
- Very swollen lymph nodes (not only in the neck)
- Sore throat
- Rash
Less common:
- Muscle and joint pain
- Diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting
- Mucosal defects in the mouth or sex organ
HIV is particularly transmitted in the early stages of the infection. But even if the symptoms disappear, you are still infectious. Symptoms usually last a few days to several weeks.
Symptoms of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
STIs can show up in very different ways. It’s important that you keep an eye on your body and do the right thing if you notice any changes: get tested and seek advice.
The most common symptoms of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Purulent discharge from the sex organ or anus
- Pain in the sex organ or anus
- Pain when urinating
- Pain during sex
- Itching and irritation of the sex organ or anus
- Sore throat, redness or irritation in the mouth or throat
- Lumps, sores or mucous membrane lesions
- Rash
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Irregular bleeding in between periods
The symptoms sometimes go away on their own. But that doesn’t mean that the infection has disappeared. Some STIs can continue unnoticed and harm your health.
Counselling
In general, if you have sex there is a risk of catching HIV or another STI. Infections may or may not have symptoms. You should therefore seek advice and get tested if necessary after having high-risk sex, even if you don’t have symptoms. If you do have symptoms, speak to a medical professional. And if you’re unsure whether you could have an infection, visit a counselling or test centre.
You can find a test centre near you here.