sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can affect both men and women, but symptoms may differ. In men, STIs often go unnoticed because many of their symptoms can be subtle or misdiagnosed for other health problems. While most of us are familiar with symptoms like genital discomfort or unusual discharge, it’s important to know that STIs can occur in unexpected ways. We contacted Dr. Amit Goyal, Director and Head of Renal Transplant, Uro-Oncology, Urology and Robotic Surgery Unit, Max Super Specialty Hospital Gurugram, who shares the signs and symptoms of STIs in men.

Dr. Amit explains that persistent sore throat may indicate pharyngeal infection caused by oral contact with an infected partner. “For example, gonorrhea can cause gonococcal pharyngitis, which can cause a sore throat that often goes undiagnosed,” he said. A study published in 2019 in The Lancet Infectious Diseases found that oropharyngeal gonorrhea is becoming increasingly common among sexually active men. If left untreated it can lead to complications such as systemic infection.

STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause eye infections, widely known as conjunctivitis or “pink eye,” if the bacteria come in contact with the eye, explains Dr. Amit. They warn that gonococcal conjunctivitis can cause severe eye pain, swelling and discharge, potentially leading to vision loss if left untreated.

Rashes are another sign of STIs, especially syphilis. The second stage of syphilis occurs as a non-itchy rash on the palms of the hands. Dr. Amit explains that untreated syphilis can lead to neurological and cardiovascular problems.

Dr. Amit explains that pain or burning while urinating is one of the most classic symptoms of STIs, like chlamydia or gonorrhea. The infection irritates the urethra, causing discomfort. A study published in 2020 in the Journal of Urology suggests that it is essential to get tested at the first sign of painful urination, because if left untreated, the infection can spread to the reproductive organs, causing more serious problems like epididymitis or prostatitis in men. There may be complications.

Dr. Amit explains that discharge from the penis, whether clear, white, or yellow-green, can be a sign of an STI, especially chlamydia or gonorrhea. The CDC reports that about 50 percent of men with chlamydia may not experience any symptoms, making it an important sign to pay attention to. Gonorrhea, on the other hand, produces more discharge.

STIs can also cause pain or swelling in the testicles, which may indicate epididymitis, a condition where the epididymis (the tube that stores sperm) becomes inflamed due to infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhea. According to research from the American Urological Association, if left untreated, it can lead to infertility.

Dr. Amit explains that men who have anal sex may experience rectal symptoms from STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, or syphilis. It may also manifest as pain, discharge or bleeding. Rectal infections often go unnoticed because they may be asymptomatic, but if left untreated, they can cause severe inflammation and other health problems.

“As a urologist, I emphasize the importance of paying attention to these lesser-known symptoms. Other unusual signs may include joint pain, swollen lymph nodes, changes in urination patterns, or flu-like symptoms. STIs are often manageable with prompt diagnosis, but if left untreated, they can lead to serious complications such as infertility, long-term pain and systemic infections,” he said.

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