SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTION SYMPTOMS IN WOMEN: CERVICAL PROBLEMS
A cervix infection (mucopurulent cervicitis) can be caused by bacteria (such as gonorrhea and chlamydia), viruses (such as herpes), and protozoan infections (such as trichomonas). Unusual bleeding, including bleeding between periods and after intercourse, can occur from a cervix that is irritated for any reason. Other cervix conditions, such as cancer or a polyp (a small, noncancerous growth on the cervix), may sometimes also cause bleeding. A Pap smear is used to detect cervical cancer.
Anne, 36, had had regular periods all her life, “like clockwork, every 28 days.” After two pregnancies, she had a tubal ligation about three years ago. She and her husband recently divorced, and Anne was once again in the dating game.
Anne began seeing Brian about two months ago, and they had sex on their third date. They discussed STDs and condom use before becoming intimate and decided that since neither of them had had many sexual partners in their lifetimes, and they both “looked clean,” they didn’t need to use condoms. Anne wouldn’t become pregnant because her tubes had been tied.
Soon Anne began experiencing burning and itching on her labia, and intercourse was painful. She also noticed a fishy odor every now and then, and blood on the toilet tissue after she urinated. She talked it over with Brian, who had no symptoms and suggested that she see her gynecologist.
After a thorough examination, Anne’s gynecologist diagnosed trichomoniasis. Tests were performed for gonorrhea and chlamydia, and both were negative. Both Anne and Brian were surprised that Brian could have had the infection without symptoms. They were treated with antibiotics, and both of them decided to have tests for other STDs to be sure that they didn’t have any other diseases.
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