The truth about sexual health and STD symptoms
Don't ignore the signs, learn to identify and combat common STDs like chlamydia, syphilis and gonorrhoea with STD testing
Text: Dr Tsin Uin Foong
Transmitting a sexually transmitted disease is something that many of us feel is not going to happen to us. But as a practising GP doctor, I see women and men who are concerned about sexually transmitted disease (STDs) and who do indeed suffer. The rise in popularity of dating apps and online dating has been directly linked to a surge in STIs. To arm you with knowledge and understanding, plus advice on where to turn should you suspect you do have an STI, it’s important to learn the truth about sexual health and STD symptoms from a professional.
During the circuit breaker in Singapore, the dating app Paktor saw a surge in app usage. Despite the stay-at-home rules, more singles joined (likely to have a curious ‘look see’ as opposed to meeting up with people), and Paktor saw a 10 per cent increase in new users. Singapore users also spent ten times longer on the app than they did before the pandemic. Obviously, not all app users end up physically intimate, but the opportunity to meet new people online with the potential to then meet face-to-face constantly increases.
Why we need the sexual health chat
Sexual health is an essential part of our overall and holistic wellbeing. There has been a lot of focus in recent years on mental wellbeing, but perhaps sexual health is yet to be invited into the national narrative. This may be because of the following challenges:
People may feel embarrassed about accessing medical support
This one is easily addressed. There are welcoming, non-judgemental clinics here in Singapore where you can access compassionate medical care. Be assured that doctors have a code of conduct to ensure your consultation and tests are entirely confidential. At our clinic, everyone is welcome, and each person is treated with dignity and kindness.
People may not prioritise sexual health
Sexual health is part of our overall and holistic wellbeing. If you’re over the age of 25 or are sexually active (whichever comes first), it is recommended you have a regular PAP test (whether you are married or not) and minimise your risk of cervical cancer. You don’t need to see a gynaecologist for this — find a trusted GP that you feel comfortable with. We do them all the time!
There is a social stigma on sexual health topics
Due to cultural or religious reasons, sexual health topics may not be discussed openly in Singapore. Schools tend to veer clear of the subject in the belief that there is minimal sex before marriage. Your religious and cultural beliefs are your own, but I urge any sexually active person to take ownership of their sexual health. Please don't suffer in silence, we can help.
3 STIs to know about
Whatever the reasons, it’s important that we are educated about the different types of STIs so we know what to look out for and how to get help. Below are three of the most common sexually transmitted diseases to be aware of:
Chlamydia
How do you catch it? Usually through unprotected sex
Who can catch it? Men and women
Symptoms: Chlamydia can be sneaky because you probably won't have any symptoms you can see or feel. Sometimes, the signs of chlamydia are so mild that people don't notice them or mistake the symptoms for something else. In women, these symptoms may include vaginal discharge, pain during sex, or painful urination. For men, signs of chlamydia may include discharge from the penis or pain in the testicles. Since these symptoms are relatively mild, it's easy to overlook them
How are you tested? Usually with a swab STD test or a urine test (if available)
Treatment: Chlamydia can be treated simply with antibiotics
Prevention: Condoms and getting tested regularly
Syphilis
How do you catch it? Syphilis is a bacterial infection that’s spread through contact with sores
Who can catch it? Men and women
Symptoms: Syphilis causes sores on your genitals (called chancres). The sores are usually painless, but they can easily spread the infection to other people. Many people with syphilis don't notice the sores and feel totally fine, so they might not know they have it. Later stages of the infection can include rashes on your hands, feet or other parts of your body, flu-like symptoms, and late stages of syphilis can cause tumours, blindness, and paralysis. It can damage your nervous system, brain and other organs
How are you tested? Blood test
Treatment: Syphilis can be easily cured with medication if you treat it early. But without treatment, it leads to severe, permanent problems like brain damage, paralysis, and blindness
Prevention: Condoms and getting tested regularly
Gonorrhoea
How do you catch it? A very common bacterial infection, especially for teens and people in their 20s. Gonorrhoea is sometimes called ‘the clap’ or ‘the drip’
Who can catch it? Men and women
Symptoms: It's another sneaky one because there are few symptoms. For women, symptoms may include pain when urinating, abnormal discharge and bleeding. Men are more likely to experience symptoms. These may include discharge, pain when urinating or swollen testicles
How are you tested? Urine or swab STD test
Treatment: Syphilis can be easily cured with antibiotics, but it is essential that your sexual partners also get treated; otherwise, you may pass the infection back and forth
Prevention: Condoms and getting tested regularly
Should you have an STD test?
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms discussed in this feature, please don’t ignore them and seek medical support. If you're sexually active, it's a good idea to get tested regularly to protect yourself and your partner. Think about getting an STD test if:
- You're embarking on a new relationship
- You're having sex without a condom
- You have multiple sexual partners
- Your partner has cheated on you
While it’s easier said than done, there is no need to feel embarrassed. Call our clinic or another provider and book an appointment — f the receptionist asks what the appointment is regarding, you can just say “It’s a personal matter”. The STDs listed here will not go away unless you take medication. These conditions can be easily treated to ensure you are not spreading it to your partner or other sexual partners.
Remember, my colleagues and I are medically trained professionals who have been seeing patients with STD issues for many years. We will be discreet, professional and we can help you.
About Dr Tsin Uin Foong
Dr Foong is a UK trained family GP based at Osler Health Raffles. Contact her at 6332 2727 or visit http://www.osler-health.com/. For further information about sexually transmitted diseases she recommends the following reading: Sexually Transmitted Infections, Sexually Transmitted Infections Factsheet and STI Management Guidelines
