Symptoms of STD in Male: Causes, Testing, & Prevention Guide

Discussing sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can be awkward and shameful, so many men avoid the topic altogether when talking to their partner. However, staying silent won’t keep you and your loved ones safe – having an open and honest conversation does.

STDs are more common than most people realise, and they don't always present with obvious symptoms. Some infections stay quiet for months or even years, potentially affecting your long-term health in the process. However, recognising symptoms when they occur gives you a chance to act before complications develop.

What are STDs?

STDs are infections passed between people during sexual contact. This includes vaginal, anal, and oral sex, though some infections can also spread through skin-to-skin contact in intimate areas. You might hear them called STIs (sexually transmitted infections) as well. Both terms describe the same thing, though STI is sometimes used when there are no symptoms yet.

The tricky part is that many men with an STD are unaware of their infection. Symptoms might be so mild you barely notice them, or they might not show up at all for a long time. That's why testing regularly is important, even when everything feels fine.

What causes STDs?

Different types of microbes cause STDs, and each one behaves a bit differently in your body. Some are easier to treat than others, but all of them spread through close contact.

The three main microbes are:

• Bacteria that cause infections like chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and syphilis

• Viruses include HIV, herpes, HPV, and hepatitis B

• Parasites that cause trichomoniasis

These infections spread in several ways:

• Through sexual activity with someone who's infected

• Direct contact between skin in genital areas

• Sharing needles with someone who has an infection

• Exposure to infected blood

How do STD symptoms show up in men?

One of the most challenging aspects about STDs is how often they remain hidden. You could have an infection and feel completely fine, while in fact your body is dealing with something that needs treatment.

When symptoms do show up, you may notice the following:

• Discharge from your penis that looks or smells different than usual

• A burning feeling when you pee that won't go away

• Sores, blisters, or unusual bumps around your genitals

• Swelling or pain in your testicles

• Ongoing itching or irritation around the genitals

• Pain or discomfort during an intercourse

• A rash that appears without explanation

These signs can easily be confused with other health issues, which is why guessing doesn't work. Testing is the only way to know for sure what's going on. 

If something feels off or you've noticed any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with Thomson Medical. Our obstetrician and gynaecologist (O&G) specialists can help identify the cause and guide you toward the right treatment.

Common STDs that affect men

Every STD has its own characteristics. Some are easily cured, others need ongoing management, and some can cause serious problems if ignored. Knowing what's out there helps you understand what you're dealing with if you do test positive.

Here's a breakdown of the most common infections in men:

When should you get an STD test?

Counting on symptoms to alert you is risky and often too late. Most infections don't show up right away, and by the time you notice something, you might have already passed it to someone else.

Think about getting tested if you:

• Have had sex with someone new or with multiple partners

• Do not use protection during sex

• Have noticed unusual symptoms such as discharge or sores

• Are starting a new relationship and want to know your status

• Have a partner who tells you they’ve tested positive

• Have shared needles

• Are planning to have children with your partner

Why is STD testing so important?

You might be wondering if testing really matters when you feel fine. Here's why it absolutely does:

• Catching infections early stops them from causing permanent damage like infertility, chronic pain, or life-threatening illness. 

• Giving you clarity about your status so you can protect your partners. 

• With test and early treatment, bacterial infections can be completely cured, and viral ones can be controlled to prevent complications.

Testing might seem like an inconvenience when nothing feels wrong, but your doctor can walk you through everything and help you figure out the right approach for your situation.

How can you prevent STDs?

Protection works best when you combine different approaches rather than relying on just one method. Here are some preventive measures that can help reduce your risk:

• Get vaccinated against hepatitis B and HPV

• Be selective about sexual partners

• Use condoms or dental dams consistently during sexual intercourse

• Never share needles

• See your doctor regularly for check-ups

Regular appointments keep you up to date on your sexual health. These visits give you space to bring up concerns, talk through any symptoms you've noticed, and figure out testing plan that fits your lifestyle.

Regular appointments keep you up to date on your sexual health. If you'd like to discuss your sexual health concerns or create a testing plan that fits your lifestyle, schedule an appointment with Thomson Medical. Our specialists provide confidential consultations where you can discuss openly about any symptoms or questions you may have.

Where can you get tested and vaccinated?

Singapore has plenty of accessible options for STD testing and vaccines. You can visit public polyclinics and hospitals for subsidised testing, or choose private clinics if you prefer faster results and complete discretion. At-home test kits are also available for some infections, letting you collect samples in private.

FAQ

How do you know if you have an STD as a man?

Many infections stay quiet in the beginning, so you might not realize anything's wrong. Symptoms like burning when you urinate, unusual discharge, blisters, or sores can signal an infection, but plenty of STDs cause no symptoms at all. The only way to know for certain is through testing at a clinic or with your doctor.

What does male STD discharge look like?

It varies depending on the infection. Gonorrhoea usually produces thick discharges that's yellow or green. Chlamydia tends to cause something clearer and more watery. Trichomoniasis can create discharge that's frothy or has an odd smell. Any discharge that seems unusual for you deserves a doctor's attention.

Are STDs curable for men?

Bacterial and parasitic infections like chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis can be completely cured with the right medication. Viral infections like herpes, HIV, and hepatitis B don't have cures yet, but they can be managed effectively with treatment.

How long does an STD last in men?

It depends on the type and whether you get treatment. Bacterial and parasitic infections usually clear up within days to weeks once you take medication. Viral infections typically persist for a long time, but treatment keeps them under control. Without treatment, many STDs can persist for months or years and potentially cause permanent damage to your fertility or organs.

Do condoms prevent STDs?

Condoms are one of the most effective tools for reducing STD risk, especially for infections that spread through body fluids like chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and HIV. However, they don’t offer complete protection. Infections like herpes, HPV, and syphilis can spread through skin-to-skin contact in areas a condom doesn't cover. Using condoms consistently, getting vaccinated, and testing regularly gives you the strongest protection.

What increases STD risk in males?

Several factors raise your chances of getting an infection. Having unprotected sex with new or multiple partners increases risk significantly. So does having partners whose STD status you don't know. Sharing needles and having a history of previous STDs also elevate your risk.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice based on your unique situations, please consult a specialist at Thomson Medical. Request an appointment with Thomson Medical today.