STD Symptoms and Treatment in Malaysia What are STDs/STIs

 

STD Symptoms and Treatment in Malaysia

What are STDs/STIs

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), also called Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), are infections spread mainly through sexual contact — vaginal, anal, or oral. Some can also be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Bacterial and parasitic STIs are usually curable, while viral infections can be managed but not always cured.

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Common STIs in Malaysia

Some of the more common STIs diagnosed in Malaysia include:

• Syphilis
• Gonorrhoea
• Chlamydia
• HIV/AIDS
• Genital herpes
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
• Trichomoniasis, Bacterial Vaginosis, and Candidiasis

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Symptoms of STIs

Many STIs show no symptoms at first (asymptomatic), which makes regular screening important. However, common symptoms include:

General (both men and women):

• Sores, ulcers, or blisters on the genitals, anus, or mouth
• Unusual discharge from the penis, vagina, or anus
• Pain or burning during urination
• Itching or irritation in the genital area
• Swelling in the groin or genital region
• Rash or fever in more advanced infections

Women:

• Abnormal vaginal discharge with unusual smell, colour, or texture
• Bleeding between periods
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Lower abdominal pain
• Itching, redness, or bumps around the vulva, anus, or mouth

Men:

• Penile discharge
• Pain or burning sensation when urinating
• Lumps or sores on the penis, scrotum, or anus
• Swollen or painful testicles
• Anal discharge if engaged in anal sex

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Diagnosis

Doctors diagnose STIs through:

• Medical and sexual history
• Physical examination for lesions, rash, or discharge
• Laboratory tests such as swabs, urine tests, and blood tests
• In some cases, a syndromic approach (treating based on symptoms without waiting for test results) is used to avoid delays

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Treatment

Treatment depends on the type of STI. Malaysian guidelines recommend the following:

Infection / Syndrome	First-line Treatment	Alternatives
Syphilis (early)	Benzathine Penicillin injection, single dose	Doxycycline (if allergic and non-pregnant)
Syphilis (late)	Benzathine Penicillin weekly for 3 weeks	Doxycycline
Genital Herpes (first episode)	Acyclovir tablets for 7–10 days	Other antivirals depending on severity
Gonorrhoea	Ceftriaxone injection plus Doxycycline for 7 days	Alternative antibiotics if allergic
Chlamydia	Doxycycline for 7 days	Azithromycin single dose
Trichomoniasis	Metronidazole for 7 days	Higher single dose in some cases
Bacterial Vaginosis	Metronidazole tablets	—
Candidiasis	Clotrimazole cream or Fluconazole tablet	—
Lymphogranuloma Venereum (LGV)	Doxycycline for 21 days	—
Granuloma Inguinale	Specific prolonged antibiotics	—

Important notes:

• Partners should also be examined and treated to prevent reinfection.
• Sexual activity should be avoided until treatment is completed.
• Special protocols exist for pregnant women, especially with syphilis or HIV.

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Complications if Untreated

If untreated, STIs can lead to serious problems:

• Infertility (especially from gonorrhoea or chlamydia)
• Pelvic inflammatory disease in women
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Transmission to newborns during childbirth
• Increased risk of HIV infection
• Organ damage, neurological issues, or heart complications in advanced syphilis

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Prevention

Prevention is the best strategy against STIs:

• Use condoms correctly and consistently
• Limit sexual partners and practice mutual monogamy
• Get vaccinated for HPV and Hepatitis B
• Go for regular STI screenings if sexually active
• Educate yourself and your partner about safe sex practices
• Pregnant women should undergo STI testing to protect their babies

Maintaining good general health, including exercise and lifestyle habits, also strengthens your immune system. You can read more about the importance of daily physical activity here: Daily Exercise Is Essential for Your Health.

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What to Do If You Suspect an STI

• Visit a doctor or sexual health clinic promptly
• Avoid self-treatment or home remedies
• Inform recent sexual partners so they can also get tested
• Complete the full course of prescribed medication
• Refrain from sex until your doctor confirms it is safe