Does a discharge of pus mean I have contracted an STD?
AN experience like yours is usually a source of anxiety. It is very possible to pick up a sexually transmitted disease from a sexual partner after a one sexual encounter. It is even more likely after an episode of unprotected sex.
Ask the Doctor with Dr. Gloria Ndagire
Dear Doctor,
It’s almost one month since I had unprotected sex with an unknown partner. Since then I started feeling a little pain in my urethra. Sometimes when I press and shake my penis, a little pus-like fluid comes out. Could this mean that I have contracted a sexually transmitted disease (STD)?
SM
Dear SM,
AN experience like yours is usually a source of anxiety. It is very possible to pick up a sexually transmitted disease from a sexual partner after a one sexual encounter. It is even more likely after an episode of unprotected sex.
The symptoms you have described make it even more likely that you may have contracted a sexually transmitted disease.
Fortunately, a big number of sexually transmitted illnesses are treatable. However, most of these infections result into quite similar symptoms. The sexually transmitted disease which are more likely to cause a genital discharge include syphilis, gonorrhoea and chlamydia.
Infections of the urethra by other bacteria may also cause a discharge. All these are treatable. Visit a health facility for proper tests and treatment.
It would also be wise to have an HIV test done to ascertain your status.
Most importantly, you need to modify your sexual practices. Unprotected sex with a stranger is very risky behaviour.
You need to live more responsibly.
Write to health@newvision.co.ug
Dear Doctor,
It’s almost one month since I had unprotected sex with an unknown partner. Since then I started feeling a little pain in my urethra. Sometimes when I press and shake my penis, a little pus-like fluid comes out. Could this mean that I have contracted a sexually transmitted disease (STD)?
SM
Dear SM,
AN experience like yours is usually a source of anxiety. It is very possible to pick up a sexually transmitted disease from a sexual partner after a one sexual encounter. It is even more likely after an episode of unprotected sex.
The symptoms you have described make it even more likely that you may have contracted a sexually transmitted disease.
Fortunately, a big number of sexually transmitted illnesses are treatable. However, most of these infections result into quite similar symptoms. The sexually transmitted disease which are more likely to cause a genital discharge include syphilis, gonorrhoea and chlamydia.
Infections of the urethra by other bacteria may also cause a discharge. All these are treatable. Visit a health facility for proper tests and treatment.
It would also be wise to have an HIV test done to ascertain your status.
Most importantly, you need to modify your sexual practices. Unprotected sex with a stranger is very risky behaviour.
You need to live more responsibly.
Write to health@newvision.co.ug