Ray – Part 2: The Hookup – Risk Review
What could that spot be?
A spot, bump, or chancre on the penis can be a sign of syphilis or herpes. Other common STIs to be aware of include chlamydia and gonorrhea. All of these STIs can infect not only your penis but also your mouth, throat, and butt. Also, exposure to any of these STIs increases your risk for HIV.
When to seek help?
Avoid all sexual contact and immediately seek the help of a medical provider if you or your partner experience:
- A stinging sensation when you urinate.
- An unusual discharge from your penis.
- Bumps, blisters, or growths around your mouth, penis, or anus.
Get to know what your penis looks like. If it ever looks out of the ordinary, contact a health provider. Open sores and inflammation make it easier for HIV to infect your cells.
Get tested!
It is possible to have an STI and be asymptomatic. In other words, you or your sex partner may not show obvious signs of an STI but could still be infectious. Oftentimes, this is how STIs are passed on. If you are sexually active, the CDC recommends regular testing for STIs (every 3 to 6 months), even if you have no symptoms.
If you are worried that you may have an STI, go to an STI clinic and see a medical provider for treatment right away!