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STDs: symptoms, causes, screening

STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) can appear through a wide range of very discreet signs. In France, STDs are on the rise. Diagnosing and treating sexually transmitted diseases is essential to avoid complications or passing them on.

STDs: what are the symptoms?

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and sexually transmitted diseases are the same thing. We speak of an STI or an STD when referring to a disease that can be passed on during unprotected sex. You may also sometimes hear the term 'venereal disease'. An STD can be transmitted vaginally, anally, orally or sometimes through blood. There are a great many sexually transmitted diseases; among the best known are:
 • HIV;
 • AIDS;
 • Syphilis;
 • HPV (human papillomavirus);
 • Pubic lice;
 • Genital herpes;
 • Gonorrhoea;
 • Genital warts;
 • Chlamydia.
Both men and women can be affected by STDs. Some STDs are better known to the general public than others, particularly because of media coverage and the after-effects they can leave on the body. Some STIs are poorly understood and their symptoms often overlooked, yet the consequences of an untreated STD can cause lasting damage to the male or female urogenital system, and can even make it harder to conceive children. STDs can be caused by viruses, bacteria or fungi and can lead to a range of symptoms such as:
 • Burning sensations,
 • itching,
 • bleeding,
 • unusual discharge,
 • abnormal odours,
 • redness, pain during sex or when passing urine,
 • swelling,
 • fever, fatigue.
While STI or STD symptoms may appear in the lower genital tract, in many cases they are asymptomatic. Feeli's doctors and specialists are available for teleconsultation 24/7 for further medical advice.

What are the main STDs?

The main STDs (or sexually transmitted diseases) are caused by:
 1. Bacteria;
 2. Viruses;
 3. Or parasites.
These microorganisms spread and are transmitted during unprotected sex. Here is a list of the main STDs:
 • Chlamydia: Chlamydia trachomatis infection can affect the genitals, rectum and throat. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications, including infertility in women;
 • Gonorrhoea: gonorrhoea is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae;
 • Genital herpes: genital herpes is caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) or type 2 (HSV-2);
 • Human papillomavirus (HPV):
 • HIV/AIDS (human immunodeficiency virus (HIV));
 • Syphilis, caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum;
 • Hepatitis B and C;
 • Genital fungal infections. For example, a fungal infection such as candidiasis;
 • Trichomoniasis, caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis;
STI prevention (sexually transmitted infections) relies mainly on using condoms during sex. Doctors also recommend vaccination (against HPV and hepatitis B) and regular screening, particularly if you have multiple sexual partners. In addition, appropriate sex education and communication between sexual partners are essential to reduce the risk of STDs.

STDs: how do you get tested?

Preventing STIs (sexually transmitted infections) helps protect against them more effectively. Condoms are the only form of contraception that protects against STDs (sexually transmitted diseases). Having multiple sexual partners increases the risk of contracting or passing on an STI. Getting tested frequently, and especially with a new sexual partner, allows for possible early detection. Since most STDs are asymptomatic and therefore show no symptoms, it is important to get tested regularly, all the more so if you are sexually active. The consequences of an STI can be significant: cancer, infertility… STD screening is therefore the best way to avoid possible after-effects following infection, as well as further spread. It is also worth knowing that having had one STI increases the risk of contracting others later in life. When detected in time, STDs are easily treated, so it would be a shame to miss out! Screening is nothing complicated: it usually just takes a blood test, a swab, a simple visual examination of the genitals or a urine test. If you have had unprotected sex involving a risk, or if you have symptoms of an STD, do not hesitate to consult a gynaecologist. The healthcare professional will ask you questions to better understand the risk factors, and will offer clinical examinations, screening tests, sampling, follow-up and possible treatment. It is important that the partner(s) of a person infected with an STD also get tested, so they can receive treatment if the results turn out to be positive. This helps prevent further infections and chronic conditions.

Treat your STD with an online doctor

Getting in touch with a healthcare professional, a general practitioner or a gynaecologist, is quick on Feeli. As soon as you notice symptoms of an STD (sexually transmitted disease) or have any doubt, log on to the Feeli website, complete the medical questionnaire provided and wait to be connected with a healthcare professional. No need to travel or book an appointment! The doctor can prescribe antibiotics or antiviral medication depending on the STD during your online consultation. You can also attach photos to help with the diagnosis. General practitioners and gynaecologists can prescribe screening tests, whatever the STD. Teleconsultation on Feeli makes it easier to care for patients who cannot travel to see their doctor, whose regular doctor is not available, who want to save time, or who do not have a doctor nearby, and who can also turn to telemedicine. With one click, from home or work, simply use your computer, tablet or smartphone to get an online medical consultation with a healthcare professional. Feeli ensures the confidentiality of your data and your exchanges. Try Feeli to get tested or to treat an STD or STI.