What Are the Most Common Male STDs?

Sexually transmitted diseases in men, commonly referred to as male STDs, are a major health concern because they can be so easily spread to others. Some of the more common of these diseases include syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia. HIV/AIDS is also unfortunately still prevalent. Other types of male STDs include chancroid and genital herpes. An accurate diagnosis requires a trip to the doctor, and any sexual partners need to be treated as well.

Syphilis is among the most common male STDs. In the beginning stages of this disease, a small, painless bump may be present in the genital area or the mouth. As the disease begins to progress, multiple bumps or sores may begin to develop, and the lymph glands in the genital region of the body may begin to swell. Although these symptoms may disappear without treatment, they typically return from time to time and may cause further damage to the body if left untreated for a prolonged period.

Gonorrhea and chlamydia are also common male STDs. Gonorrhea may cause painful urination as well as an abnormal discharge from the penis. Chlamydia may cause inflammation or swelling of the testicles or the prostate gland. If left untreated, both of these conditions have the potential to cause infertility.

HIV/AIDS is perhaps the most dangerous of all of the male STDs. This condition often begins with flu-like symptoms but can virtually destroy the immune system, especially if left untreated. This type of disease is often fatal, especially in the more underdeveloped parts of the world. Treatments are available that may help to ease some of the symptoms and prolong the worsening of the disease, but there is no cure available.

Chancroid is also common among men. This is a type of bacterial infection that may lead to the development of open sores known as ulcers. Antibiotic therapy often cures this condition, but the patient can become reinfected by having sexual relations with an infected person.

Yet another of the possible male STDs is genital herpes. This disease often causes painful, open sores that may disappear and recur in no particular pattern. Antiviral medications may be able to lessen some of the symptoms or prolong the amount of time between outbreaks, but there is no cure for the disease that will guarantee that the symptoms will not return. A person is most contagious during an outbreak, but it may be possible to spread genital herpes between outbreaks as well.