STD Risks: Symptoms and When to See a Doctor

Will I get a sexually transmitted infection (STI)?

Hello doctor, last February I had unprotected intercourse for two and a half months and tested for STDs including HIV, but the doctor said I probably didn't need to test again.
However, the glans has been wrinkled until January of this year, and I did not have sexual intercourse.
In February, I had vaginal intercourse once with a condom, but afterwards, I removed the condom and the partner used their hand.
The next day, I masturbated once, and on the fourth day, I noticed red spots on the glans.
On the fifth day, the red spots were gone, but there was a strong odor.
On the sixth day, the glans was still wrinkled, the odor was strong, and I had some difficulty achieving an erection.
Sometimes I experience unexplained pain in the testicles and the sides of the penis.
On the seventh day, the glans remained wrinkled, the odor was less intense, and I still couldn't achieve an erection.
The unexplained pain in the testicles and the sides of the penis persisted.
Last night, I drank over 2000 cc of water and had difficulty urinating.
Today, on the eighth day, the odor is still not very strong, I still can't achieve an erection, and the unexplained pain in the testicles and the sides of the penis continues.
Is this urethritis? Should I see a doctor? After vaginal intercourse with a condom, is it possible to contract an STD from using hands after removing the condom?

RR, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/02/26

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, theoretically, any contact with bodily fluids can potentially lead to infection.
If there are bodily fluids from another person on your hands, such as sweat, urine, or secretions, the likelihood of exposure increases.
If there are any wounds on your body (including minor injuries that may not be visible), the risk of infection is even greater.
If you have any concerns, it is best to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; if necessary, it is important to visit a healthcare facility.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taitung Hospital, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2015/02/26

More Info

When it comes to understanding the risks associated with sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), it's crucial to recognize the symptoms and know when to seek medical attention. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing several concerning symptoms following sexual encounters, which may warrant further evaluation by a healthcare professional.

Firstly, let's clarify the potential risks associated with unprotected sexual intercourse. Engaging in sexual activities without a condom increases the risk of transmitting STDs, including HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and herpes, among others. While you mentioned that you were tested for STDs after your initial encounter and were told that further testing was unnecessary, it's important to understand that some infections may not show symptoms immediately or may take time to manifest.

The symptoms you are experiencing—such as the wrinkled appearance of the glans (head of the penis), redness, unusual odor, and pain in the testicles and sides of the penis—could indicate several conditions, including but not limited to:
1. Balanitis: This is an inflammation of the glans, often caused by infections (bacterial or fungal), poor hygiene, or irritants. Symptoms can include redness, swelling, and discharge.

2. Urethritis: This is an inflammation of the urethra, which can be caused by STDs or non-infectious factors. Symptoms may include pain during urination, unusual discharge, and discomfort in the genital area.

3. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Given your history of unprotected sex, it's possible that you may have contracted an STI, which can present with various symptoms, including those you described.

4. Other Conditions: Conditions such as a yeast infection, allergic reactions to soaps or lubricants, or other dermatological issues could also cause similar symptoms.

Given the persistence of your symptoms over several days, including the changes in odor and the difficulty with erections, it is advisable to see a doctor. A healthcare professional can perform a thorough examination, take a detailed sexual history, and conduct appropriate tests to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. This may include urine tests, swabs of the affected area, and blood tests for STDs.

Regarding your concern about the safety of sexual activities after using a condom, it is generally considered safe to engage in manual stimulation after using a condom, as long as there is no direct contact with bodily fluids from the partner. However, if there was any potential exposure to bodily fluids, there is a risk of transmission of STDs.

In summary, it is essential to prioritize your health and seek medical attention for your symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and help manage any potential infections effectively. Remember, open communication with your healthcare provider about your sexual health is crucial, and they are there to help you without judgment. Don't hesitate to reach out for the care you need.

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