Sexually Transmitted Infections in Men in India
Can I get an STI by open-mouth kissing?
If my partner has an STI, doesn’t that mean she was cheating on me?
Can I get HIV from oral sex with a prostitute?
Do condoms protect against all STIs?
Once you’ve had an STI, you can’t catch it again.
Won’t I know if I have an STI?
Do circumcised men have a lower risk of getting an STI?
At Luvomen, world-class infectious disease doctors and urologists are available for telehealth consultations to address your specific concerns. Your sexual health is your responsibility, and we’re here to support you.
Did you know that STIs affect over 375 million people globally each year? In India, the stigma surrounding sexual health often prevents men from seeking timely help. Many men silently struggle with symptoms, unaware that early detection can drastically improve outcomes.
What are STIs, and why do they matter?
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections spread through sexual contact. Left untreated, STIs can lead to severe health issues like infertility, chronic pain, or even cancer. The most common STIs among Indian men include:
Chlamydia: Often silent, but can cause painful urination.
Gonorrhea: Known for its burning symptoms.
Syphilis: A multi-stage infection that can affect various organs.
IV: The virus that causes AIDS weakens the immune system.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), also known as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), are infections with a high probability of being spread through intimate contact. The terms STI and STD are sometimes used interchangeably, but STI has become the preferred term in recent years because it encompasses both infections and diseases. Often, the term ‘sexually transmitted disease’ or ‘Venereal Disease’ carries negative connotations and is associated with promiscuity or being unclean, whereas ‘infection’ has less stigma. Not all sexually transmitted infections progress into diseases, but STDs are the later stages of STIs.
Transmission Methods: The most common way STIs are passed between individuals is through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex, as well as kissing, genital touching, and sharing sex toys. STIs can also be transmitted through blood, from mother to child during childbirth, and by sharing objects like needles and razor blades.
| STI Name | Incidence (%) | Type | Window Period | Symptoms |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chlamydia | 3-8% | Bacterial | 1-3 weeks | Painful urination, penile discharge, swollen testicles |
| Gonorrhea | 1-3% | Bacterial | 2-7 days | Pus-like discharge, burning sensation, testicular pain |
| Syphilis | 0.5-1% | Bacterial | 10-90 days | Painless sore, rash on hands/feet, swollen lymph nodes |
| Genital Herpes | 10-12% | Viral | 2-14 days | Painful blisters/ulcers, itching, burning |
| HIV | 0.2-0.4% | Viral | 2-6 weeks | Flu-like symptoms, weight loss, fatigue, rash |
| HPV/Genital Warts | 5-10% | Viral | 1-8 months | Warts on genital or anal area |
| Trichomoniasis | 2-5% | Parasitic | 5-28 days | Itching, discharge, irritation during urination |
| Hepatitis B | 1-2% | Viral | 30-180 days | Jaundice, abdominal pain, fatigue |
Symptoms to watch for
Early detection is critical because many STIs show no symptoms until they’ve progressed. While some STIs are silent, common symptoms include:
Unusual discharge or sores around the genitals.
Pain during urination or intercourse.
Swelling or itching in the groin area.
Flu-like symptoms (fever, body aches).
Treatment: Treatment depends on the type of STI
Antibiotics: Used for bacterial STIs like gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis.
Antiviral Drugs: Help manage viral infections like herpes and HIV.
Creams and Lotions: Treat pubic lice and itching.
Remember, if you have symptoms like genital warts or herpes, abstain from sex until they clear up to prevent transmission. Your partners should also be screened and treated in many cases.
How often should a sexually active man in India get tested if he doesn’t have any symptoms?
All sexually active individuals should undergo full STI screenings at least once a year or more frequently if they have multiple partners. Regular screening is the only way to ensure you and your partner remain healthy and prevent the spread of STIs. If you’re sexually active, regular STI screening is crucial. This applies to all types of sexual activities, not just penetrative sex. Screening helps diagnose and treat infections before they lead to significant complications or are unknowingly passed to others.
Avoiding all sexual behaviors is the only way to entirely prevent STIs, but this isn’t realistic for most people. You may be surprised to hear, avoiding sex is detrimental to your physical and mental well-being, whereas having sex can be widely beneficial. Thus, we recommend safer-sex practices instead. Communication, honesty, and the use of barrier methods like condoms are key components of safer sex. Safe sex practices aim to protect your overall health and well-being, contributing to greater sexual satisfaction and reducing anxiety during sex.
Recommendation for High-Risk Individuals:
Frequency: More frequent screenings, typically every 3-6 months.
Priority: Early detection for HIV, syphilis, gonorrhea, and Hepatitis B
How Can You Prevent STIs?
Prevention is better than a cure. Here’s how:
Use Condoms: They reduce the risk of most STIs.
Get Vaccinated: Vaccines like HPV and Hepatitis B are lifesavers.
Communicate: Honest discussions with partners about sexual health are essential.
Regular Screenings: Early detection can save lives.
Luvomen stands out as your best partner in sexual health because:
Confidentiality: Your privacy is our top priority.
Expert Guidance: Access world-class doctors specializing in men’s sexual health.
Tailored Solutions: Indian men face unique challenges, and our treatments reflect that.
Your sexual health is your responsibility. At Luvomen, we offer telehealth consultations with expert doctors to address your concerns about STIs and sexual health. For more information or to schedule a consultation, be a member of Luvomen’s website and take the first step towards a healthier sexual life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: STI Symptoms: How Soon Do They Appear After Unprotected Sex?
You can’t confirm an STI from unprotected sex until you get tested. Symptoms can vary widely, appearing within days or taking years, depending on the infection. The “window period”—the time between infection and when a test can detect it—can extend up to six months or longer for certain STIs.
Most STIs do not cause any symptoms!!!
Most STIs present with no noticeable symptoms, meaning you could have an infection (for many years) without even knowing it. No symptoms don’t mean there’s no risk. You can transmit an STI (such as genital warts and herpes types I and II)to a partner if you have no symptoms. Asymptomatic STIs can have serious long-term health implications if left untreated. Common symptoms to watch for include:
Burning during urination.
Discharge from the penis.
Sore, swollen lymph nodes.
Lower abdominal pain.
Fever, rash, itching, lesions, or pain during intercourse.
To ensure accurate results:
Get tested as soon as possible after unprotected sex.
Be aware that early tests may yield false negatives due to the window period.
Testing methods include urine and blood samples or genital swabs, which are simple and affordable.
Below is a summary of common STIs in men in India and their typical symptom onset periods.
Q2: What are the long-term effects of untreated STIs on men's well-being?
STIs are often dismissed due to stigma and lack of education, but their consequences extend far beyond physical discomfort. If left untreated, STIs can lead to severe health complications and societal impacts.
If untreated, HIV often leads to AIDS (>1 million people die every year from AIDS)
Severe liver damage with Hepatitis B
Infertility from any STI
Nervous system problems with syphilis
Cancers of the penis, anus, and throat from HPV
The harm caused by untreated STIs isn’t limited to the body:
Mental health strain: Anxiety, shame, and depression often accompany STI diagnoses, particularly in cultures where sexual health is stigmatized.
Relationship breakdown: Trust issues can arise if one partner unknowingly transmits an untreated STI.
Social stigma: Fear of judgment discourages many men from seeking timely diagnosis and treatment, worsening outcomes.
Lack of awareness: Limited education about sexual health perpetuates risky behaviors, causing infections to spread within communities.
Community Risk: Untreated STIs increase the likelihood of infecting others, particularly in high-risk groups.
STIs are preventable, treatable, and manageable with the right approach. Prioritize your health by seeking treatment and breaking the cycle of stigma. Your health impacts not just you but those you love and the community around you.
Q3: Debunking Myths: Common Misconceptions About STIs in India
Are misconceptions about STIs stopping you from seeking treatment or protecting yourself? Let’s Luvomen doctors debunk 7 common myths about STIs, providing science-backed truths to help you stay informed and proactive.
Myth 1: STIs only affect promiscuous people
Fact: STIs can affect anyone who is sexually active, regardless of lifestyle. An individual who has sex with only one individual can contract an STI from an infected partner.
Myth 2: You can always tell if someone has an STI
Fact: Many STIs are asymptomatic, especially in early stages. Conditions like chlamydia and HIV often go unnoticed without testing.
Myth 3: Condoms fully protect against all STIs
Fact: Condoms significantly reduce the risk but don’t provide 100% protection (e.g., genital warts). Skin-to-skin STIs like herpes can still spread through contact.
Myth 4: Oral and anal sex are risk-free
Fact: STIs like gonorrhea, herpes, and syphilis can be transmitted via oral and anal sex. Even rising throat cancer appears to be linked to HPV through oral transmission.
Myth 5: Once treated, you can’t get the same STI again
Fact: Reinfection is possible if exposed to an infected partner. Repeated chlamydia infections due to untreated partners are common.
Myth 6: STIs only spread through penetrative sex
Fact: Other forms of contact (e.g., kissing, sharing needles) can transmit certain STIs. Hepatitis B transmission through shared razors is a common example.
Myth 7: STI Testing Is Painful or Embarrassing
Fact: Modern testing methods are quick, simple, and confidential. Talk to LuvoMen’s telehealth consultations today to get more information.
Knowledge is power. Breaking the stigma around STIs starts with you. Take charge of your health and let Luvomen guide you on the journey to a healthier, safer life.
Q4: Preventing STIs: Effective Strategies for Men's Sexual Health in India
STIs are preventable. Habits that reduce your and your partner’s risk of STIs dramatically are:
1. Remain with one healthy partner
Staying in a committed relationship with one uninfected and tested partner is one of the safest ways to avoid STIs.
Mutual testing at the start of the relationship is essential for ensuring both partners are STI-free.
2. Get Regular STI Screenings
Both partners should get tested for STIs before engaging in any sexual activity.
Early diagnosis not only protects your health but also prevents unknowingly transmitting infections.
3. Get Vaccinated
HPV Vaccine: Protects against human papillomavirus (HPV), which can lead to genital warts and cancers in the genital, anal, and oral areas. Vaccination is recommended for girls and boys by age 12, but is effective for adults too.
Hepatitis B Vaccine: Available as part of India’s infant immunisation program, it is highly effective in preventing this life-threatening infection.
4. Use Barriers Correctly and Consistently
Condoms: While not 100% effective, condoms significantly reduce the risk of STIs, including HIV and gonorrhea, when used properly.
Dental Dams: For oral sex, dental dams provide a barrier against infections spread through contact with genital or anal areas.
5. Limit Alcohol and Drug Use
Impaired judgment due to alcohol or drugs can lead to risky sexual behaviors and increase your vulnerability to infection.
6. Have Open Communication with Your Partner
You should get used to talking about sexual health with your partner. These conversations may be difficult to start with, but open communication about sexual health is essential. Discuss past STI diagnoses, testing history, and safe sex practices to make informed decisions about your sexual activities. Remember, your health is more important than these difficult conversations.
7. Incorporating these habits into your life can significantly reduce the risk of STIs for both you and your partner. Prevention begins with education and action. If you have questions or need support, Luvomen offers telehealth consultations with urologists and sexual health experts to guide you on your journey to better sexual health.
Q5: Is Tele-health better than clinic-based STI consultations for men in India?
With the rise of telemedicine, men in India now have access to discreet and accessible options for managing sexual health. But how does telehealth compare to traditional clinic-based consultations for STI testing and treatment? Let’s explore the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed decision.
Advantages of Telehealth for STI consultations:
Telehealth platforms like Luvomen offer unique benefits:
1. Convenience
Schedule consultations from the comfort of your home without the need for travel.
Flexible appointment times accommodate busy schedules.
2. Privacy
No face-to-face interactions reduce the fear of stigma or embarrassment.
Secure platforms ensure patient confidentiality.
3. Access to experts
Speak directly to experienced urologists and infectious disease specialists via video or phone.
Ravi, a 29-year-old from Mumbai, avoided clinics due to stigma. Through Luvomen’s teleconsultation, he accessed expert advice and began treatment discreetly.
Benefits of clinic-based STI consultations:
Traditional clinics provide certain advantages:
In-Person Diagnostics: Physical examinations and on-the-spot tests can help with diagnoses.
Limitations: Clinics may involve long wait times, limited privacy, and the fear of judgment.
Telehealth vs. Traditional consultations: Key considerations
1. Testing Availability
Telehealth consultations guide you on appropriate tests and treatment options, but you may need to visit a lab for testing.
2. Cost Efficiency
Telehealth reduces travel and consultation costs, making it ideal for budget-conscious individuals.
3. Accessibility
Telehealth bridges the gap for men in rural or underserved areas who may lack access to clinics.
How Luvomen makes telehealth work for you
1. Expert Guidance
Get personalized advice from urologists who understand men’s sexual health concerns.
2. Discreet Process
Your privacy is a priority, ensuring comfort throughout the consultation.
3. Next Steps Simplified
Receive recommendations for nearby labs or clinics for testing and follow-up care.
The Role of Luvomen in STI Prevention and Treatment
4. Telehealth Services:
Private consultations with expert urologists and sexual health specialists.
5. Online Resources:
Free educational tools and personalized advice.
6. Medications & Supplements:
Tadalafil, duloxetine, and supplements for comprehensive care.
7. Accessibility: Affordable and tailored solutions for Indian men.
Telehealth excels in convenience, privacy, and accessibility, while clinics are better suited for in-person diagnostics and immediate testing. With platforms like Luvomen, telehealth provides men in India with a judgment-free, expert-driven solution for managing STIs.
Q6: Does Circumcision Lower Your STI Risk? Truth or Hype?
Have you ever wondered whether circumcision plays a role in reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs)? Studies reveal that circumcision can lower the risk of certain STIs by up to 60%, making it a topic worth exploring.
The science behind circumcision
Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin, the fold of skin covering the head of the penis. The procedure eliminates a moist environment under the foreskin that facilitates the growth of bacteria and viruses. This reduces the likelihood of infections, particularly certain STIs.
Which STIs does it impact most?
HIV: Research by the World Health Organization indicates that circumcision can reduce the risk of HIV transmission by about 60% in heterosexual men.
HPV (Human Papillomavirus): Circumcision is associated with lower rates of HPV, which can cause genital warts and is linked to penile cancer.
Herpes (HSV-2): Studies suggest that circumcised men have a reduced risk of contracting herpes, likely due to the decreased surface area for viral entry.
The benefits of circumcision for men’s health:
Circumcision has several potential benefits beyond STI prevention:
Reduced STI Risk
Easier Hygiene Maintenance
Lower Risk of Penile Cancer
Fewer UTIs
In parts of sub-Saharan Africa, widespread circumcision campaigns have significantly reduced HIV infection rates, showcasing its impact as a preventive measure.
The drawbacks of circumcision:
Potential Risks:
Pain and Surgical Complications: Though rare, bleeding, infections, or improper healing may occur.
Loss of Sensitivity: Some men report reduced sensitivity, though research on this is inconclusive.
Ethical and Cultural Considerations: The decision is often influenced by cultural, religious, or ethical beliefs, which may complicate the choice.
Cultural Perspectives:
Globally, acceptance of circumcision varies widely. While it is common in countries like the US and parts of Africa, circumcision rates are much lower in Europe and parts of Asia, including India, where cultural and religious factors heavily influence the decision.
Is Circumcision Right for Me?
Choosing circumcision is a personal decision that depends on:
Your cultural and religious beliefs.
Your medical history and health concerns.
Expert advice from a healthcare professional.
Alternatives to Circumcision
If you’re unsure about circumcision, other preventive measures can help reduce STI risks:
Safe Sex Practices: Consistent condom use remains one of the most effective ways to prevent STIs.
Vaccination: HPV vaccines can protect against certain high-risk strains of the virus.
Regular Medical Check-ups: Periodic STI testing can help with early detection and treatment.
At Luvomen, we understand the importance of informed decision-making when it comes to men’s sexual health. Our telehealth services connect you with expert doctors who provide:
Personalized consultations on circumcision and STI prevention.
Online sexual health assessments and treatment recommendations.
Access to medications and supplements for overall sexual wellness.
Our goal is to empower you with knowledge and tailored solutions to prioritise your health and well-being. Have questions about circumcision or other men’s health topics? Schedule a consultation with Luvomen experts now and take control of your sexual well-being.