How do I know that my partner has STI?

Verified by Dr. Vaishali Sakpal Rane (MBBS, DGO Obstetrics and Gynaecology, DNB Obstetrics and Gynaecology)

The prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and STIs is higher than you may imagine. Even if you think you're in a monogamous relationship if you engage in sexual activity, you might still be at danger. Understanding the warning symptoms that might mean your spouse has an STI and what to do about it is crucial for this reason. There could not even be any symptoms. It's possible that your partner has an STI and is completely unaware of it. If so, there aren't any signs or behavioural changes to particularly be on the lookout for. Although sometimes there are some visible signs and symptoms for you to observe:

• unusual vaginal or penile discharge
• warts or sores on the genital region
• frequent or painful urination
• Redness and itching in the genital region
• mouth sores or blisters
• undesirable vaginal odour
• Anal itchiness, discomfort, or bleeding

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It's time for both of you to be tested if your spouse exhibits any of these signs. Even if it's conceivable that some of these symptoms aren't caused by STIs, it's more likely that they are. And in either case, a medical practitioner should still examine them. There is one sign in particular that one should watch out for and that is your partner suddenly withdraws from sexual affection. when your lover abruptly veers from the usual sexual course of your relationship or altogether stops engaging in it. This might mean your partner is attempting to conceal their symptoms from you. Withdrawing from sex might be an attempt to avoid experiencing STI symptoms because some of them, such as some linked to gonorrhoea or chlamydia, are visible in the genital area. It's also possible that your partner has an STI but is attempting to keep it a secret from you in order to prevent transmission.

Last but not least, it's possible that your partner feels bad about having a sexual relationship with someone else. In this situation, even if they are unsure of whether they have an STD, they are still putting you at risk by having several relationships.

It's crucial to communicate honestly with your spouse if you find yourself in this scenario. Be empathetic, but enquire for an explanation. Keep in mind that their cessation of sexual activity might be perfectly innocent and result from stress, mental anguish, or another factor. However, it could be a good idea to obtain an STD test regardless of your partner's response, just in case they aren't being entirely truthful with you.