Managing genital symptoms

Single ulcers (sores) could be a sign of a recent infection of syphilis, especially if there is no pain.

Painful ulcers may be due to herpes, other infections or recent trauma. It can help to take a photo of your ulcer so you can show the sexual health clinician at your appointment.

If you think you have mpox (monkeypox) or you’ve come into contact in the last 21 days with someone who has mpox, you should phone your local service before you attend in person.

There are many causes of pain in the lower tummy. For example issues of the bowel or urinary tract and many gynaecological conditions.

Some STIs such as gonorrhoea, or chlamydia, can very occasionally spread up into the womb and cause pelvic pain and/or deep pain during sex.

If you have pain like this and think you have been at risk of an STI then you should contact your local service.

If there is any possibility that you could be pregnant, take a pregnancy test.

Whether you have discomfort peeing or not, discharge from the end of the penis could mean that you have an STI such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea. Book a consultation online or contact your local sexual health service for advice.

Gonorrhoea and chlamydia usually affect just the urinary tract. But sometimes infection can spread to the testicle and/or the epididymis (the small tube part next to the testicle).

This will cause painful swelling for which you should get treatment urgently.

Book a consultation online or phone for advice​​.

Having multiple genital ulcers could indicate genital herpes which is the same virus that causes cold sores.

Herpes is an extremely common virus. It sometimes causes symptoms which are mostly self-limiting. This means your immune system will deal with this itself, but it can take a few days for symptoms to settle.

Sometimes the ulcers are itchy before they become sore. There may be pain when peeing because this stings the ulcers.

Milder cases can be diagnosed and treated by your GP. If you’re worried about your symptoms, you could also contact your local sexual health service for advice.

Further information about herpes simplex viruses

Sometimes hair follicles (the tiny pockets from where each hair grows) around the genitals or groin area can become inflamed. This is called folliculitis. It may be more common if you shave the area. At first it may look like a small pimple. It may be itchy, and sore but in most cases it will resolve on it’s own. If you have any concerns contact your local sexual health service.

Another common cause of new spots or lumps on your genitals is warts.

Another possible cause is molluscum. Sometimes, teenagers notice lumps that are completely normal.

If you think that the lumps you have noticed are likely to be genital warts they might clear up on their own. One third of warts disappear within 6 months.

Your GP practice may be able to prescribe treatment for you or refer you to a sexual health clinic if treatment doesn’t work. Sexual health services available may vary across Scotland.

Genital skin can be sensitive. Itching is often a sign that you’re doing something, or using a product, that’s irritating the skin. If itching is your only symptom, it isn’t often related to an STI.

Itching around or inside the vagina is often due to thrush. You can get treatment over the counter at your local pharmacy.

If you’ve changed your method of contraception, then you might notice a change in your bleeding pattern. This should settle but if you have any concerns, talk to your contraception provider.

Chlamydia can sometimes cause bleeding after sex or between periods. If you have had unprotected sex with a new sexual partner and notice this type of bleeding, then get tested for STIs.

Read about what to do if you have a change in your vaginal discharge