Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are generally acquired by sexual contact. The organisms that cause sexually transmitted diseases may pass from person to person in blood, semen, or vaginal and other bodily fluids. Some such infections can also be transmitted nonsexually, such as from mother to infant during pregnancy or childbirth, or through blood transfusions or shared needles. 

Typical symptoms

Signs and symptoms that might indicate an STI include: Sores or bumps on the genitals or in the oral or rectal area, Painful or burning urination, Discharge from the penis, Unusual or odd-smelling vaginal discharge, Unusual vaginal bleeding, Pain during sex, Sore, swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the groin but sometimes more widespread, Lower abdominal pain, Rash over the trunk, hands or feet. Signs and symptoms may appear a few days to years after exposure, depending on the organism.