STI symptoms and when to seek advice
There are many symptoms that can affect the genital area. Some may be caused by a sexually transmitted infection (STI), while others may have a different cause.
Some STIs can cause serious health problems if they are not diagnosed and treated. Our service focuses particularly on infections where early diagnosis and treatment are important, including:
- HIV
- Syphilis
- Gonorrhoea
We also provide testing and treatment for chlamydia, genital herpes and genital warts. Your GP may also be able to diagnose and treat some of these conditions.
If you have symptoms and are concerned that you may have an STI, you can book a telephone consultation online.
If appropriate, we can send you a Home Sampling Kit (HSK) so that you can collect samples at home. If you need treatment, we can arrange for you to collect it from Chalmers Centre, Whitburn Health Centre or, in some cases, a local pharmacy.
Some symptoms are not caused by an STI. For example, rashes and other skin conditions affecting the genital area can have many different causes.
Symptoms that need medical advice
Genital ulcers or sores
A single ulcer or sore on the genitals can be a sign of syphilis, particularly if it is painless. Painful genital ulcers can be caused by genital herpes.
If you have a new genital ulcer or sore, book a telephone consultation online.
Pelvic pain
There are many possible causes of pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis. These include period pain, bowel conditions and gynaecological conditions.
Some STIs, including gonorrhoea and, less commonly, chlamydia, can cause an infection that spreads to the reproductive organs. This can cause pelvic pain or deep pain during sex.
If you have pelvic pain and think you may have been exposed to an STI, book a telephone consultation online or call 0131 536 1070 for advice.
Discharge from the penis
Discharge from the penis, with or without discomfort when passing urine, can be a sign of an STI such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea.
Book a telephone consultation online or call 0131 536 1070 for advice.
Painful swelling of the testicle
An infection such as gonorrhoea or chlamydia can sometimes spread to the epididymis or testicle. This can cause pain and swelling.
Painful swelling of a testicle needs urgent medical assessment. Contact us on 0131 536 1070 for advice.
If you have sudden or severe testicular pain, seek urgent medical attention.
Multiple painful genital sores
Multiple painful genital sores are often caused by genital herpes. The sores may be itchy or uncomfortable before they become painful.
Genital herpes can also cause pain when passing urine if urine comes into contact with the sores.
If your symptoms are significant or you are concerned about genital herpes, book a telephone consultation online or call 0131 536 1070 for advice.
Some mild cases of genital herpes can be treated by your GP.
Other common genital symptoms
Spots or lumps on the genitals
There are many possible causes of spots or lumps on the genitals. These can include genital warts, molluscum and normal variations in genital skin.
If you are concerned about a new spot or lump, speak to a healthcare professional.
If you think you may have genital warts, your GP may be able to diagnose and treat them. Genital warts can also clear without treatment.
For information about normal genital anatomy and common skin changes, see this information about genital lumps and bumps.
Please note: this resource contains explicit images of genital anatomy.
Itching
Genital skin is sensitive and can become irritated by products such as soaps, shower gels, wipes or other substances.
Genital itching is not usually caused by an STI. In some cases, it can be caused by conditions such as thrush or, less commonly, pubic lice.
Your GP or pharmacist can advise you about treatment for common causes of itching.
You may also find our advice about washing for people with vulvas and washing for people with penises helpful.
Changes in vaginal bleeding
Changes in vaginal bleeding can have many causes, including changes to contraception.
Chlamydia can sometimes cause bleeding after sex or between periods.
If you have had condomless sex with a new sexual partner and have noticed a change in your bleeding pattern, consider having an STI test.
Changes in vaginal discharge
Changes in vaginal discharge are common and can have many causes.
Changes in hormone levels, pregnancy and contraception can affect vaginal discharge. A sudden change may also be caused by conditions such as bacterial vaginosis or thrush.
You can find more information in our resources about:
If your discharge is new or has changed and you have had sex with a new partner within the last three months, we recommend an STI test, including tests for chlamydia and gonorrhoea.
Painless genital rash
Genital skin can be affected by common skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and minor fungal infections.
A painless rash is not necessarily caused by an STI. Your GP can usually assess and treat common skin conditions.
Intermittent genital pain
Some people experience occasional discomfort at the tip of the penis, in one or both testicles without swelling, or in the lower abdomen.
There are many possible causes, and this type of discomfort is not usually caused by an STI.
If you are concerned about your symptoms or think you may have been exposed to an STI, contact us for advice.
West Lothian drop-in clinic
A drop-in sexual health service is available every Friday morning at Howden Health Centre in Livingston.
Friday: 8:30am to 11:00am
You do not need an appointment.
The service is for people with urgent sexual health concerns, including:
- New STI symptoms
- A positive STI test result
- Contact with someone who has tested positive for an STI
- A need for emergency contraception
When you arrive, a nurse will assess your needs.
If we cannot manage your concern during the drop-in clinic, we may arrange another appointment or advise you to contact your GP or local pharmacy.