What Are The Most Common STDs In Men?

Around 6% of the adult population in India is infected with sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) every year.¹ STDs can spread from one infected person to another through intimate physical contact. These infections can migrate via oral, vaginal or anal sex. STDs in men are often asymptomatic or display extremely mild symptoms. Hence, it is possible to have an infection yet be unaware of it. That’s why it is important for sexually active individuals to take an STD test from time to time.

Infections caused by more than 30 different bacteria, viruses, or parasites are recognized to be sexually transmittable via oral, vaginal, or anal sex.³ However, most adolescents and young adults are not aware of testing and treatment options for STDs other than HIV.⁴

Let’s overcome this knowledge gap and learn more about the common STDs in men.

Understanding Common Bacterial STDs In Men

Chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis are examples of STDs caused by bacteria and are classified as bacterial STDs. These conditions top the list when it comes to the most commonly spread STDs across the globe.³ Most bacterial STDs in men are completely curable with early diagnosis and treatment.⁵ However, WHO has raised concerns about increasing antibiotic resistance (ineffectiveness of existing drugs against the germs) amongst gonorrhoea-causing bacteria which can lead to limited treatment options against the STD in future.

Here’s an overview of some common bacterial STDs in men.

Other Common STDs In Men

Hepatitis B, Herpes, and HIV are a few examples of viral STDs in men. It is important to know how you can prevent these diseases as they are incurable or long-lasting conditions.⁵ However, you can seek relief from their symptoms through prompt treatment as soon as you are diagnosed.

There are safe and effective vaccines for hepatitis B and the healthcare industry is making significant advances in developing a vaccine for genital herpes and HIV as well.³

1. Herpes (HSV 1 And HSV 2)

Here, we explore the viral STD - herpes and its symptoms and long-term complications in detail. Herpes can be caused by the herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV 1) or herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV 2). HSV 1 leads to oral herpes and can also lead to genital herpes via oral sex. However, HSV 2 only spreads via sexual contact with an infected person and causes genital herpes.

Common symptoms of genital herpes include:

• Pain
• Itching
• Burning
• Formation of painful blisters around the penis

Oral herpes has similar symptoms and one may experience painful blisters around the mouth region.

2. Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis, also known as “trich” is a common parasitic STD caused by the protozoan Trichomonas vaginalis. Over 70% of patients infected by this parasite do not experience any symptoms. There is no clear reason why some people experience the symptoms of trich while others do not. However, it is believed that it may depend on the individual’s overall health as well as age. Although the symptoms are rare, men with trich may experience:

• A burning sensation after peeing or ejaculation
• Irritation or itching inside the penis
• Unusual discharge from the penis

Fortunately, trich is completely curable.⁵ It is important to get an STD test if you experience these symptoms. The infection can last for months or even years if not treated appropriately. In addition, if ignored or left untreated, it increases the risk of becoming infected with HIV and other sexually transmitted infections due to immune-compromised conditions in the genital organ.

Why Do You Need an STD Test?

Teenagers,young adults (15 to 24 years) and sexually active people with multiple partners are at the highest risk of getting an STD.⁷ 

The symptoms of STDs in men are asymptomatic. If you’re sexually active, getting an STD test is one of the most important things you can do to protect your health.  
STDs are commonly transmitted. There are about 1 million new cases of potential curable STIs acquired daily. ⁶
Furthermore, the cases of STDs are rising notably.⁶

In A Nutshell

It is essential for all sexually active individuals to have a basic understanding of common STDs, including their symptoms and the potential risks. Simply because some of these diseases can leave a grave impact on your reproductive health and fertility if not diagnosed and treated at an early stage. Not just that, being unaware about STDs in men can also put their partner’s reproductive health at risk.

Reduce the risk of serious complications of untreated STDs and ensure the best possible reproductive health by taking the STD test at the right time.