Marla Ahlgrimm | STD Signs You Should NEVER Ignore

Sexually-transmitted diseases are common among sexually active men and women. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, knowing the signs of a sexually transmitted disease or sexually transmitted infection is crucial to your overall health. Here are a few symptoms you should never ignore. 

 

For both genders 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm explains that both men and women should watch first and foremost for pain when urinating. Any unusual tingling, itching, burning, or soreness around the genitals is also cause for alarm. Spots, sores, and blisters around the vagina, penis, or anus should also be brought up to your primary health care provider. Something else to watch for is a black or white powdery substance in underwear, which might indicate the presence of pubic lice. 

In women 

 

Women, says Marla Ahlgrimm, must pay close attention to pain related to sexual intercourse. If pain or bleeding occurs during or shortly after having sex, this could indicate some sort of problem. Marla Ahlgrimm also says that vaginal discharge is something to look out for. She notes, however, that a white, milky discharge is not uncommon during a hormone surge, such as just prior to a woman’s period. Green or yellow discharge is another story, and should be discussed with your doctor immediately. 

 

In men 

 

While primarily a women’s healthcare specialist, Marla Ahlgrimm says that it is also up to men to keep themselves sexually healthy. She explains that discharge from the penis or unusual irritation around the urethra may indicate that something is amiss down below. 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm explains that most sexual health clinics, primary health care providers, and OB/GYN’s offer sexual transmitted disease testing. She cautions that failure to treat any of the above symptoms may compromise your ability to get pregnant and can spread disease to other people.