STDs that cause itching: Diagnosis and Treatments

Dr. Mujahid Jammel

MD(AM)BUMS, DAF, CHEF, PGDYT

August 6th, 2024

Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) and Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) are both broadly used terms for diseases and infections that are passed from person to person during sexual contact by viruses, bacteria, and parasites. Sometimes itching is caused by Sexually Transmitted Infection that can be cured and does not become a disease. But also, this itching can be a symptom of a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Therefore, read these blogs to know the most common STDs that cause itching as one of the symptoms and diagnosis for each STD.

What STDs Cause Itching and How to Identify Them

The Five most common STDs that causes itching are, 

1. Chlamydia
2. Gonorrhea
3. Trichomoniasis
4. Herpes
5. Pubic Lice (Crabs)

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a common bacterial STD that can cause itching in the genital area. A burning sensation often accompanies the itching during urination and a watery, yellow discharge from the penis or vagina. Chlamydia can also lead to inflammation and discomfort in the rectum, particularly in individuals who have had anal sex.

Diagnosis and Treatments of Chlamydia

Chlamydia mostly affects females less than age 25, pregnant women, and men or women who had sex with many individuals. Screening and diagnosis of chlamydia is very simply done with a urine test. The sample urine is tested in the lab to identify the presence of infection.

Chlamydia is treated with antibiotics. Regular antibiotic intake can mostly eliminate the symptoms and infections in 1- 2 weeks. During the treatment process, sexual contact with the affected person is needed until the infection goes away. Once you are affected and treated for chlamydia, it does not mean you will not get it again.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is another bacterial STD that can cause itching in the genital area. A greenish-yellow, pus-like discharge from the penis or vagina may accompany the itching. In some cases, individuals with gonorrhea may also experience pain or burning during urination. Neisseria gonorrhoeae is a bacteria that causes gonorrhea.

Diagnosis and Treatments of Gonorrhea 

To identify whether you are affected by gonorrhea. The healthcare providers screen tests with urine samples and a swab of the affected area. The adults affected by gonorrhea are given an antibiotic as an injection. 

After antibiotic intake, you need to avoid sexual activity for the next 6-7 days. If one of the sexual partners is affected by gonorrhea, another one should also be screened and tested, as it can spread again after the treatment for one of the partners.

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a parasitic STD that can cause significant itching in the vagina or penis. A frothy, yellow-green discharge and a strong, unpleasant odor often accompany the itching. Trichomoniasis can also lead to irritation and inflammation in the affected area.

Diagnosis and Treatments of Trichomoniasis

A healthcare provider identifies the presence of trichomoniasis with samples taken from females as vaginal fluid and a swab from the penis of a male. These samples are tested under a microscope to find the presence of parasites. If they find any, you are confirmed to have been affected by trichomoniasis. Another STD test is also done for the person affected by trichomoniasis.

The person affected by trichomoniasis is usually treated with two types: one with a single mega dosage of powerful antibiotics like tinidazole (Tindamax), secnidazole (Solosec), or metronidazole (Flagyl), and the other with multiple doses of metronidazole or tinidazole in low dose for 6 – 7 days. Avoiding drinking alcohol during treatment and sexual contact with partners is necessary.

Herpes

Herpes is a viral STD that can cause painful, itchy blisters or sores in the genital area as well as on the mouth or lips. The initial herpes outbreak is often the most severe, with the itching and discomfort gradually decreasing. However, the virus cannot be removed from the body. It remains dormant in the body and causes recurrent outbreaks.

Diagnosis and Treatments of Herpes

Herpes is caused by the virus called herpes simplex virus (HPV) and its types. The presence of the virus is identified using blood samples in a laboratory. Also, samples from one of the active sores are taken to identify whether it is HSV 1 or HSV 2.

There’s no permanent cure for genital herpes. Healthcare providers commonly prescribe the long-term use of antiviral drugs. These long-term use of antiviral medications can prevent the passage of disease to your sexual partner and reduce the outbreak of sores and itching.

Pubic Lice (Crabs)

Pubic lice, also known as “crabs,” are small insects that can infest the pubic area and other areas with coarse hair. The infestation can cause intense itching and the presence of small, crab-like creatures on the skin or in the pubic hair.

Diagnosis and Treatments of Pubic Lice (Crabs)

When moving lice are found in the pubic area, the presence of pubic lice is confirmed after a visual examination by the doctor. Most doctors use shampoo or lotion with 1% pyrethrin. Doctors usually prescribe more potent lotions like malathion and pills like Ivermectin (Stromectol) to get rid of these moving lice.

Takeaway

Itching can be a symptom of STDs that need to be treated ASAP to avoid the spread of the disease. Also, avoiding sexual contact with partners during the treatment is required to prevent the spread of the disease again. If you are affected by STD and treated for it does not mean that you will not be affected by it again. Contact your local sexual health clinic for diagnosis and treatment of STDs and STIs to avoid long-term complications.