Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) in Singapore: Symptoms, Testing and Treatment Options

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a common health concern in Singapore and worldwide. They may affect anyone who is sexually active, regardless of age, gender or sexual orientation. For many people, the first step is understanding how STIs work, what symptoms to look out for, and where to go for STI treatment in Singapore or a confidential STD clinic consultation.
 

This article provides an overview of common STIs seen in Singapore, typical symptoms, how testing is done, and the treatment options available.

What are sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections usually acquired through sexual contact. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites that are passed from person to person through blood, semen, vaginal fluid, and other body fluids.
 

STIs may be transmitted through:

• Vaginal, anal or oral sex with an infected partner, especially without a condom
• Skin-to-skin contact with infected areas (for example, genital warts or herpes lesions)
• Contact with infected blood (for example, sharing needles for drug use)
• From a pregnant person to the baby during pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding (depending on the infection)
   

A key point is that STIs do not always cause symptoms. A person can carry and pass on an infection without realising it.

Common STIs seen in Singapore

While lifestyle change is not a replacement for appropriate medical assessment and treatment, it is a valuable complementary strategy.
 

Different sources in Singapore highlight similar patterns of common STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, genital herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV) and HIV.
 

Below is a brief overview of some commonly discussed STIs in the local context.

1. Chlamydia

• Caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis
• Can infect the urethra, cervix, rectum and throat
• Many people have no symptoms, especially women
• When symptoms occur, they may include:
  • Pain or burning when passing urine
  • Abnormal vaginal or penile discharge
  • Pelvic pain or pain during sex

2. Gonorrhoea

• Caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae
• Can affect the urethra, cervix, rectum, throat and eyes
• Possible symptoms:
  • Thick yellow or green penile or vaginal discharge
  • Painful urination
  • Pelvic pain or testicular discomfort

3. Syphilis

• Caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum
• Progresses through stages if left untreated, and may cause serious complications over time
• Early signs may include:
  • A painless ulcer (sore) at the site of infection
  • Non-itchy rash, often on the trunk, palms or soles
  • Swollen lymph nodes, fever, fatigue

4. Genital herpes

• Caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 or HSV-2)
• May cause:
  • Painful blisters or ulcers on the genitals or surrounding skin
  • Burning or tingling before the blisters appear
  • Recurrent episodes after the first outbreak
     

Genital herpes can be recurrent and troublesome, but it does not usually affect long-term general health or fertility when appropriately managed.

5. Human papillomavirus (HPV) and genital warts

• HPV is a common virus, with some strains causing genital warts and others associated with certain cancers
• Genital warts may appear as small, raised growths or bumps in the genital area
• They may be painless, itchy or uncomfortable

6. HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)

• A viral infection that attacks the immune system over time
• Early symptoms may resemble flu-like illness, or there may be no symptoms
• Long-term untreated infection can lead to AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome)
   

At Dr Tan Medical Center, HIV services include HIV screening, antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV treatment, and prevention options such as PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) and PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis).

Common STI symptoms – and when there may be no symptoms

STI symptoms can vary depending on the organism and the site of infection. Some possible signs and symptoms include:
 

• Unusual penile or vaginal discharge
• Pain or burning when passing urine
• Genital ulcers, blisters, lumps or warts
• Itching, redness or irritation around the genitals or anus
• Pain during sex
• Pelvic or lower abdominal pain
• Testicular pain or swelling
• Irregular vaginal bleeding (for example, after sex)
   

However, many STIs can be asymptomatic, especially in the early stages. This is why regular screening is often recommended for people with higher-risk sexual behaviours, even if they feel well.

When should you consider STI or STD screening?

You may wish to consider visiting an STD treatment clinic or your doctor for STI screening in Singapore if:

• You have had unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex
• You have a new partner, or several partners
• Your partner has been diagnosed with an STI
• You notice symptoms such as discharge, genital sores, warts, or pain on urination
• You are planning a pregnancy and want to check your sexual health
• You are in a higher-risk group (for example, men who have sex with men, or those with a history of STIs)

How STI and STD tests are done in Singapore

The exact tests recommended will depend on your symptoms, sexual history and risk factors. Common methods include:

Blood tests

• Used for infections such as HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B and some herpes testing

Urine tests

• Often used to detect chlamydia and gonorrhoea, particularly in men

Swab tests

• Swabs from the cervix, urethra, throat or rectum may be taken to test for certain infections

Physical examination

• The doctor may examine the genital region, skin and other areas depending on the symptoms

Window periods and timing of tests

Different STIs have different “window periods” – the time between exposure and when a test can reliably pick up an infection. For example, HIV testing guidelines discuss appropriate timing depending on the test type used (antigen/antibody tests, rapid tests, etc.).
 

Your doctor or STD clinic will advise on:

• Which tests are suitable for you
• Whether repeat testing is needed after a certain interval
• When your results are expected
   

At Dr Tan Medical Center, services also include rapid anonymous HIV and STD testing, with results available in a short time frame in a confidential setting.

STI treatment options in Singapore

Treatment depends on the type of STI diagnosed, how early it is detected, and whether there are complications. The following is a general overview based on established STI management guidelines and local resources.

1. Bacterial STIs (e.g. chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis)

• Usually treated with antibiotics
• The specific medication and duration will depend on the organism and site of infection
• For syphilis, injectable penicillin is commonly used in many guidelines for certain stages
• It is important to:
  • Complete the antibiotic course as prescribed
  • Avoid sexual contact until your doctor advises it is safe to resume
  • Inform and encourage testing/treatment for partners if recommended

2. Viral STIs (e.g. genital herpes, HIV, some HPV-related conditions)

Genital herpes

• Treated with antiviral medications to shorten outbreaks and help reduce the severity and frequency of recurrences
   

HIV

• Managed using antiretroviral therapy (ART) – a combination of medications tailored to the individual
• With consistent treatment and monitoring, HIV can often be controlled long term
   

HPV-related genital warts

• May be treated with topical medications, freezing (cryotherapy), or minor procedures, depending on the size and location of warts

3. Partner management and follow-up

In many cases, sexual partners may also need assessment, testing, and possible treatment to reduce the risk of reinfection and further transmission. This approach is reflected in STI management guidelines used in Singapore.
 

Follow-up visits may be needed to:

• Confirm that the infection has cleared (where applicable)
• Monitor for side effects of medication
• Re-test after a certain period, especially for infections prone to reinfection

Prevention and safer-sex practices

While no method can completely remove risk, evidence-based measures can reduce the likelihood of STI transmission:

• Using condoms correctly and consistently for vaginal, anal, and oral sex
• Limiting the number of sexual partners and knowing your partner’s STI status, where possible
• Attending regular STI screening if you are sexually active and have higher-risk exposures
• Considering HIV prevention strategies such as PrEP or PEP when recommended by your doctor
• Receiving recommended vaccinations (for example, hepatitis B and HPV, depending on your age and medical history)

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

1. Can STIs be cured?

• Some STIs, particularly bacterial infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis, can usually be cured with appropriate antibiotic treatment.
• Other infections, such as genital herpes and HIV, are long-term viral infections that can be managed with antiviral or antiretroviral treatment, but are not currently considered curable.
   

Your doctor will explain the expected outcome based on the diagnosis and current evidence.

2. Do STIs always cause symptoms?

No. Many STIs can be asymptomatic, especially in the early stages. This is why regular screening is recommended for some individuals even if they feel entirely well.

3. How often should I go for STI screening?

There is no single schedule that fits everyone. General guidance from sexual-health resources suggests:

• Routine screening if you have new or multiple partners
• Immediate testing if you develop symptoms or if a partner is diagnosed with an STI
• Periodic testing (for example, yearly or more frequent) for certain higher-risk groups, as advised by a doctor
   

For personalised advice, it is best to discuss this directly with your healthcare provider.

4. What should I expect at an STD clinic visit?

A typical visit to an STD clinic or STI service may include:

• A confidential discussion of your symptoms, sexual history and concerns
• Physical examination where indicated
• Tests such as blood tests, urine tests or swabs
• Discussion of results and recommended STI treatment in Singapore where needed
• Advice on partner notification, prevention and follow-up