7-Infection Comprehensive STI Profile

Chlamydia is the most commonly diagnosed bacterial STI in the UK. It often has no symptoms, which is why regular testing is important. If left untreated, chlamydia can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, which can lead to fertility problems and ectopic pregnancy. In men, it can cause epididymitis (inflammation of the tubes that carry sperm). Chlamydia is easily treated with a short course of antibiotics.

Gonorrhoea is a bacterial infection that can infect the genitals, rectum, and throat. Symptoms may include unusual discharge, pain when urinating, and bleeding between periods in women—but many people have no symptoms at all. Untreated gonorrhoea can lead to PID, infertility, and in rare cases, can spread to the blood or joints. Gonorrhoea is treated with antibiotics, though antibiotic-resistant strains are becoming more common.

Mycoplasma genitalium (Mgen) is an emerging sexually transmitted bacterium that has gained increasing recognition in recent years. It can cause urethritis in men (inflammation of the urethra causing discharge and painful urination) and in women can cause cervicitis, PID, and has been linked to preterm birth. Many people have no symptoms. Treatment typically requires specific antibiotics, as Mgen is resistant to some commonly used STI treatments.

Ureaplasma are bacteria that can be found in the urogenital tract. While many people carry these bacteria without problems, Ureaplasma can sometimes cause urethritis, bacterial vaginosis-like symptoms, and has been associated with complications during pregnancy including preterm labour. The clinical significance of Ureaplasma detection is still being studied, and treatment decisions are usually based on symptoms and individual circumstances.

Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) is a parasitic infection that commonly causes vaginitis. Symptoms in women may include frothy yellow-green discharge with a strong odour, itching, and discomfort during urination or sex. Men are often asymptomatic but can experience urethritis. Trichomoniasis can increase the risk of acquiring other STIs, including HIV. It is easily treated with antibiotics (metronidazole or tinidazole).

Gardnerella vaginalis is a bacterium strongly associated with bacterial vaginosis (BV), a common condition where the normal balance of vaginal bacteria is disrupted. BV can cause a thin grey or white discharge with a characteristic "fishy" odour, particularly after sex. While not technically an STI, BV is more common in sexually active women. BV can increase susceptibility to other STIs and may be associated with pregnancy complications.

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) causes genital and oral herpes. HSV-1 traditionally causes cold sores around the mouth, while HSV-2 typically causes genital herpes—though either type can affect either location. Many people with herpes have no symptoms or mild symptoms they don't recognise. When symptoms occur, they typically include painful blisters or sores, itching, and flu-like symptoms during initial outbreaks. Herpes cannot be cured but can be managed with antiviral medication. This test detects HSV DNA in samples with active viral shedding.