STI vs. UTI: What Is The Difference Between Their Symptoms

Published September 21, 2018 by

STI vs. UTI and what is the difference between their symptoms is quite a common dilemma. There are some symptoms similar to both a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) and a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI), so sometimes it may be difficult to to discern which type of infection your symptoms represent. What follows may help you to spot the difference quickly and take action.

Young woman on the street looking worriedUTI – Urinary Tract Infection

This quite common and mostly female complaint is an infection easily treated with antibiotics. A UTI is caused by a bacteria in the urethra, the bladder, ureter, or kidneys. It is usually accompanied by painful urination and a burning sensation. Women should never try to treat themselves by drinking cranberry juice thinking it will pass, as this will not clear the infection. It is imperative to see on of our providers whenever you experience these symptoms.

Left untreated a UTI can progress to a serious kidney infection.

STI – Sexually Transmitted Infection

Incidences of this infection have been rising steadily. According to the CDC almost 20 million cases are diagnosed each year. A STI can be derived from oral, vaginal or anal sex. In addition it’s possible to get a STI from intravenous drug use, or even childbirth and breastfeeding.

Sadly, sometimes a STI has no noticeable symptoms and can be present for many years leading to severe complications like chronic pain, infertility, and cancer. It can spread to a sexual partner and even damage the fetus if you become pregnant. For all these reasons it is essential to be tested once or twice a year for a STI, regardless of your symptoms. 

How To Tell The Difference, Trenton MI

A STI and a UTI share many symptoms in common, so herein lies the problem of telling the difference.

These common symptoms include the following:

  • Burning and painful urination
  • Frequency and urgency of urination
  • Foul smelling urine
  • Cloudy or dark urine
  • Pelvic pain

Sometimes it’s possible to have both infections.

Not A Time To Self Diagnose

If you have any of the above symptoms see one of our doctors immediately. Both of these infections can be successfully handled as long as they are diagnosed and treated early.

Since a Sexually Transmitted Infection may have no symptoms, ask to be tested once or twice a year to protect yourself and your partner.

Contact Downriver OBGYN immediately if you experience any of the symptoms of a STI or UTI.

Sources:

https://www.stdcheck.com/blog/uti-vs-std-difference/

https://www.healthline.com/health/sexually-transmitted-diseases/symptoms

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