Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are infections transmitted through sexual intercourse and body fluid transmission from one person to another.

STDs in men can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites and are generally asymptomatic or show symptoms much later.

It can increase the risks of serious complications if not treated early.

Thus, learning about the symptoms, causes, risk factors, tests, and treatments is crucial to prevent serious complications.

This article will elaborate on everything you need to know about STDs in men and how you can prevent them for safe sex with fewer chances of transmission of infection.

STD symptoms in men

STDs can cause the following symptoms in men:

  • Sores or blisters on the penis
  • Burning or itching sensation in the penis
  • Pain around the genitals
  • Penile discharge
  • Sudden and strong urge to urinate
  • Pain with urine or bowel movement
Fact:
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than one million Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are acquired every day worldwide.

Causes of STDs in men

The following pathogens may cause STDs in men:

  • Bacteria: STDs caused by bacteria include Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Syphilis
  • Virus: The STDs caused by the virus include Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B, Herpes, and Human Papillomavirus (HPV), Cytomegalovirus, and Zika
  • Parasite: Trichomoniasis is an STD caused by a parasite and can affect the male urethra 

Risk factors for STDs in men

The risk factors associated with the transmission of the infection-causing pathogen include:

  • Having unprotected sex: Unprotected sex without using condoms can increase the risk of transmission of the pathogen
  • Multiple sexual partners: The more people get involved sexually, the greater the risks of infection transfer
  • Sharing infected needles: Sharing needles and syringes with an infected person, which may carry a pathogen, for drug use or tattoos can spread STDs
  • Blood transfusion: Blood transfusion from an infected person can transmit the infections and may lead to the development of STDs
  • From mother to infant: During pregnancy or breastfeeding, STIs may be transmitted from an infected mother to her male fetus or infant
  • A history of STDs: A history of STDs can increase the chances of the next encounter of the infection
Warning:
You can get infected with the same STD after it gets treated. Thus, be sure to get routine check-ups to prevent its re-occurrence.

What are the STD tests for men

Depending on the type of infection-causing pathogen, you can get one of the following types of tests:

Blood tests

Blood test
Blood test

A small needle is inserted, and blood is collected from the vein of your arm in a clean, sterile test tube.

This test is used for the diagnosis of Syphilis, HIV, and Herpes.

Urine tests

Your doctor may ask you to collect a urine sample in a sterile container to detect infection-causing pathogens.

This test is mainly done for the testing of Trichomoniasis and sometimes Gonorrhea.

Swab tests

A swab test is used to diagnose HPV, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Herpes.

In men, samples can be collected from the penis or urethra.

Lumbar puncture

It can only be tested if your healthcare practitioner suspects the advanced stage of Syphilis or Herpes, which has affected your brain and spinal cord.

In this test, your doctor may numb your back and collect a sample for diagnosis.

The needle is inserted between two lumbar bones and collects a sample of cerebrospinal fluid, which surrounds and protects your brain and spinal cord from injury.

Treatments for STDs in men

Most STIs go away after proper diagnosis and treatment with effective medications. 

However, some STIs may need lifelong medical check-ups and medications. 

The treatment options for STDs in men may include the following medications:

  • Antibiotics: Antibiotics can be helpful to treat STDs caused by bacteria
  • Antiviral: Antiviral drugs are used to treat STDs caused by viruses, such as HIV, HPV, and Herpes
  • Antiretroviral drugs: Individuals with HIV have to take antiretroviral drugs, also called Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART), and can prevent transmission of HIV to others
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How to prevent STDs

Interaction with latex condoms
Always use condoms

STDs can be prevented with the following measures to reduce the chances of transmission of pathogens:

  • Have safe sex with one partner
  • Always use barriers, condoms, or dental dams
  • Avoid infected needles, syringes, and blood transfusions
  • Always take STD tests before having sex with a new partner
  • Get vaccinations

Further, it is important to consult a healthcare practitioner and seek medical treatment to avoid the serious complications associated with STDs.

Conclusion

STDs in men are caused by the transmission of infection-causing bacteria, viruses, or parasites through sexual intercourse or transfusion of body fluids.

These infections can show various symptoms in men, such as burning and itching in the penis, frequent urination, etc.

Further, there are numerous risk factors associated with STD transmission, including having unprotected sex, a history of STD, sharing infected needles, etc.

Fortunately, some STD tests, such as blood, urine, or swab tests, can help diagnose the condition based on early symptoms, as recommended by your physician.

Your doctor can prescribe effective medications, such as antibiotics, antiviral drugs, and HAART, depending on the underlying pathogen causing STDs.

Also, you can take some effective preventive measures for safe sex, such as using barriers and getting vaccinations.

Further, it is crucial to seek prompt medical attention if you suspect any signs or symptoms of STDs to prevent serious complications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs of an STD in men?

STDs in men may show numerous signs and symptoms, such as sores or blisters and a burning sensation on the penis. Men can also notice penile discharge, painful urination, and bowel movements. Also, they can face a sudden urge to urinate.

Do male STDs go away?

Most Sexually Transmitted Infections go away after proper diagnosis and treatment with effective medications. However, some STIs may need lifelong medical check-ups and medications. Also, you can get infected with the same STD after it gets treated. Thus, be sure to have routine check-ups to prevent its re-occurrence.

How do men get tested for STDs?

Men may take a blood test for HIV, Herpes, and Syphilis and urine sample tests for Trichomoniasis. A swab test is used for HPV, Chlamydia, and Herpes, while lumbar puncture is for advanced Syphilis.

What causes STDs in men?

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are caused by bacteria, viruses, and parasites in men. These infection-causing pathogens are transmitted through sexual activity, sharing infected syringes, and transfusion of body fluids. You can consult a healthcare practitioner and seek medical attention to avoid serious complications.

Citations:
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