Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can be a cause for concern, especially when symptoms are hard to recognize. While some people experience symptoms of an infection, like discharge, burning, or itching in the genital area, other people can have a sexually transmitted infection and have no symptoms at all.
For example, 75 percent of women and 50 percent of men with chlamydia have no symptoms. And, on average, people with HIV don’t develop symptoms for 10 years.
Signs You May Have an STD (and not know it)
Withdrawal from Sexual Activity
Less sex may mean you may have an STD. We all have times when we may not feel like engaging in sex or sexual activity, even with a partner we love. When your partner suddenly deviates from your relationship’s typical sexual pattern or withdraws from sex completely, however, it could be a sign to watch out for.
This may indicate your partner is trying to hide symptoms from you. Some STD symptoms, including several associated with gonorrhea or chlamydia, are visible in the genital area, so withdrawing from sex could be an attempt to prevent you from seeing these symptoms firsthand.
It could also be that your partner is trying to protect you from transmission, but hasn’t summoned up the courage to tell you about their STD.
Lastly, your partner might be feeling guilty about being in a sexual relationship with someone else. In this case, even if they don’t know whether they’ve contracted an STD, they’re still placing you at risk by engaging in sexual activity with multiple partners.
If you find yourself in this situation, it’s important to talk openly with your partner. Ask for an explanation, but be compassionate. Remember, their withdrawal from sexual activity might be completely innocent, stemming from anxiety, emotional distress or another cause. Regardless of your partner’s answer, however, it might be wise to get an STD test, just in case they’re not being completely honest with you.
Confusion of Symptoms
Another sign you may have an STD and not know it is because of the multitude of symptoms. Many STD symptoms are related to