When it comes to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), the time elapsed from infection until symptoms manifest, if any, varies widely and depends on the specific pathogen and the individual. All too often, symptoms don't appear or go unnoticed. Despite this, it is important to never ignore an STD. If left untreated, many STDs can progress and cause permanent and irreversible damage.
It is also important to note that an infected person is still able to transmit the infection to others, regardless of any symptoms. The time it takes for symptoms to appear after infection can range from a few days to weeks or even months. For example, gonorrhea symptoms usually appear within two weeks of contracting the STD, but sometimes they don't appear until much later. Trichomoniasis symptoms may start to show up after four weeks, but in some cases, they may not be present until months later. Chlamydia symptoms may appear one to three weeks after exposure, although external symptoms of chlamydia may remain latent for months or even years.
Symptoms of HIV include flu-like symptoms such as a high fever, sore throat, headaches, and muscle or joint pain, as well as a red rash on the body. Herpes symptoms may become apparent the day after exposure; however, in most cases, these symptoms of STDs do not appear until two to 20 days after infection. If there's any chance that you have an STD, it is important to go to a sexual health clinic or family doctor for a confidential and free checkup. Your Sexual Health offers a wide range of STI tests that can be done in the clinic or at home to help you have the peace of mind of knowing if you have been infected with an STD.
