Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Sexually transmitted infections are passed through vaginal, anal or oral sex and, for some, from mother to baby or through blood. The common ones in Nigeria include gonorrhoea, chlamydia, trichomonas, syphilis, genital herpes, hepatitis B and HIV. Many cause no symptoms, especially in women, yet can still lead to infertility, pelvic infection, urethral stricture and problems in pregnancy. Testing is quick and confidential, most bacterial STIs are cured with the right antibiotic, and the viral ones can be controlled.
Find a Internal Medicine SpecialistMedically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Often no symptoms at all
- Discharge from the penis, or unusual vaginal discharge
- Burning or pain when passing urine
- Sores, ulcers, blisters or lumps on or around the genitals or anus
- Itching or pain in the genital area
- Lower abdominal pain or pain during sex in women
- Pain or swelling in the testicles
- A rash on the body, palms or soles (possible syphilis)
When to See a Doctor
Get tested if you have any symptoms, if you have had unprotected sex with a new partner or a partner whose status you do not know, if a partner has an STI, or if you are planning a pregnancy. Many STIs are silent, so testing is the only way to know. See a doctor promptly for pelvic pain with fever, testicular pain and swelling, or a genital ulcer. After a possible exposure to HIV, go to a clinic within 72 hours for post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).
Treatment options
- Testing by urine sample, swab and blood tests
- Antibiotics for gonorrhoea, chlamydia, trichomonas and syphilis, matched to current guidance
- Antiviral medicine to control herpes outbreaks
- Lifelong antiretroviral therapy for HIV
- Treatment of partners, and no sex until both have finished treatment
- Retesting where advised, and prevention: condoms, hepatitis B vaccination and PrEP
Common Questions
Can I treat an STI with antibiotics from the chemist?
It is not a good idea. Gonorrhoea is increasingly resistant to common antibiotics, and the wrong drug or dose can leave an infection partly treated, with risks to fertility. A test confirms the infection and guides the right treatment.
Can STIs cause infertility?
Yes. Untreated chlamydia and gonorrhoea can damage the fallopian tubes in women and the reproductive tract in men. Prompt testing and treatment prevent most of this damage.
Is STI testing confidential?
Yes. Your results are private medical information. Some tests can also be done at home, with the sample collected discreetly.
Do I need to tell my partner?
Yes, for their health and to avoid being reinfected. Your doctor can help you plan how to do this, and partners can be treated without needing to come in together.
Need Help?
Find a verified internal medicine specialist near you.
Internal Medicine in Lagos →Internal Medicine in Abuja →Internal Medicine in Port Harcourt →Internal Medicine in Jos →Internal Medicine in Ibadan →Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.