I have no STD symptoms. Should I still get tested before I meet my wife?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concerns.

• First of all, ideally speaking, I feel tests are the need of the hour, as there are unprotected sexual encounters (oral sex) with high-risk individuals (commercial sex workers). Considering the future implications of any infection to your wife, what you might spend for the tests is a small amount.

• However, considering the clinical history, I feel tests for herpes and syphilis are recommended, and others can be left out as none of the other disorders present with a rash. I understand there is a clinical history of rash around the belt area, but the recent occurrence of rash makes me believe that the chance possibility should be considered and remedial measures should be taken. So, I recommend getting tested for at least syphilis and herpes so they can be ruled out.

• Considering the fact that there are no other symptoms, there is little need for other tests.

I hope this answers you. Feel free to write back to me if you have more questions.

Thanks and regards.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

• Regarding unprotected sex, in my opinion, it should be avoided as long as there is confusion about the presence of infection. It is always better to prevent mishappenings rather than take chances. Principally speaking, the use of protection should be routine so that there is limited or no risk of transmission of infection.

• Although I believe in a faithful relationship to sustain the marriage, we need to understand that there are physical needs for everyone, irrespective of gender. If a man can deviate from a monogamous relationship due to sexual needs, the same is possible for women, and this should be kept in mind when you return home.

• Regarding syphilis, there is no doubt that this is a treatable illness, and there is little to worry about future complications. However, herpes is a viral illness and often difficult to treat, which makes me believe that the use of protection should be preferred over unprotected sex. However, I must also inform you that herpes rarely manifests clinically despite the presence of a virus in the body, and often, it is a mild illness and not a major illness for otherwise healthy individuals. I hope this helps you further.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Thanks for reverting back to me.

I have reviewed the attached pictures (attachments have been removed to protect the patient's identity) exposing the underside of the penis, and I am of the opinion that the lesion does not look like any STDs. It is more like a papule, and it could be anything like a simple insect bite or result of minor abrasion during masturbation. Considering the incubation period of various diseases related to sexual health and your past exposure, there is a good possibility that it is the result of obsession rather than anything else.

I hope this helps you.

Feel free to write back to me if you have more questions.

Thanks and regards.