Here's The Situation: My Boyfriend And I (both Early 40s)
In the last week or so, I noticed a burning sensation and have had some slightly bloody discharge even though my period ended about 5 days ago.
I went to the gynecologist today and was diagnosed with a UTI, but my doctor was also concerned about an STI (partially due to my sensitivity during the pelvic exam) and took cultures for those too.
My BF was tested less than 6 months ago, came back negative and has only been with me since. I had physical from my GP with pap and blood tests over the summer, but am not sure what exactly was searched for (all negative though).
The results of the STI test should be back within a few days and I'm hoping that it's just a UTI, but am a nervous that i contracted an STI from the man I was with once 18 months ago - even though I seemingly haven't had any symptoms until now.
Do you have any thoughts? And how long can an STI be dormant before showing symptoms?
Seems to be only UTI.
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for posting your query.
I have gone through your query and under your health concern in detail, from your history it seems you have only a UTI. STI are very unlikely, more unlikely from a man with once exposure 18 months ago.
It is good that your doctor is testing you for STD’s like syphilis, Chlamydia and HIV. Although less likely for STD’s to present with only swollen lymph node and no other symptoms but since there is a history of unprotected intercourse in your case, so it is better to get investigated for these STD’s.
STD’s usually present with many symptoms chief ones being any discharge, burning sensation in urethra, redness, irritation, ulcer of sore, pain or blood during ejaculation, pain in the genitalia or early flu like symptoms in case of HIV. Swollen lymph node is usually not the only presenting symptom of a STD.
However lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes) is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Other causes include allergic reactions or some malignancy. So it is best to rule out STD’s first and then move on to investigate other causes of swollen lymph node.
I hope this answers your query.
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Wishing you good health.
Regards.
Dr. Rakhi Tayal