Lesions are abnormal changes or growths on the skin or mucous membranes that can indicate an underlying sexually transmitted infection (STI). These manifestations vary in appearance and location. Recognizing such physical changes is an important first step in understanding one’s sexual health and seeking appropriate medical guidance.
STDs That Cause Skin Lesions
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) is a common cause of genital lesions. These are small, painful, fluid-filled blisters that typically cluster together. They eventually break open, forming shallow sores that then crust over and heal. While often found on the genitals and anus, HSV lesions can also occur around the mouth, known as cold sores. The virus remains in the body and can cause recurrent outbreaks, though subsequent episodes are often less severe than the initial one.
Syphilis progresses through stages, with distinct lesion types appearing at different points. The primary stage is marked by a single, often painless, firm, round sore called a chancre. This chancre typically appears where the bacteria entered the body, such as the genitals, anus, or mouth. It usually heals on its own within a few weeks or months, but the infection persists. If untreated, secondary syphilis can develop, presenting as a non-itchy rash that may appear on any part of the body, including the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) frequently causes genital warts. These are soft growths on the skin and mucous membranes of the genital area. Warts can vary in appearance, sometimes flesh-colored, raised or flat, and may resemble small parts of a cauliflower. They can appear as single growths or in clusters on the penis, vulva, urethra, vagina, cervix, and around the anus. While often not painful, they may occasionally cause mild itching, discomfort, or bleeding.
Chancroid, a bacterial infection, leads to painful, open sores, often called “soft chancres,” that typically develop on the genitals. These sores have ragged, soft edges and may bleed easily, often accompanied by pus. Within days to weeks of the initial sore, painful, swollen lymph nodes may develop in the groin, sometimes forming large, pus-filled lumps called buboes that can rupture. Symptoms generally appear between 4 to 10 days after exposure.
Lymphogranuloma Venereum (LGV) is caused by specific strains of Chlamydia trachomatis. It initially presents as a small, often unnoticed, painless lesion like a papule or ulcer on the genitals or anus. This initial lesion may heal quickly and go unnoticed. The infection then progresses, leading to significant swelling and tenderness of the lymph nodes in the groin, which can become very large and painful. These swollen lymph nodes, or buboes, can sometimes rupture and drain.
Understanding Lesion Characteristics and Seeking Care
Lesions caused by sexually transmitted infections vary in appearance and location, from painless to painful, raised or flat, and single or clustered. They can emerge in sensitive areas like the genitals, anus, mouth, throat, hands, and feet. Self-diagnosis is unreliable and can delay appropriate treatment.
Any new, unexplained, or unusual bump, sore, rash, or skin change in the genital, anal, or oral regions warrants immediate medical evaluation. Prompt assessment by a healthcare professional is important for accurate diagnosis and timely intervention. Ignoring such symptoms can lead to more serious health complications or unknowingly transmit the infection to others.
The diagnostic process for suspected STI-related lesions typically involves a thorough physical examination by a healthcare provider. Depending on the type of lesion and suspected infection, laboratory tests may be performed. These can include swabbing the lesion for viral or bacterial cultures, or blood tests to detect antibodies or specific genetic material of the pathogen.
Preventing and Managing Lesion-Causing STDs
Preventing lesion-causing STDs involves practices to minimize exposure. Consistent and correct use of barrier methods, such as condoms for vaginal, anal, and oral sex, reduces transmission risk. Limiting sexual partners and having open conversations about sexual health and STI status with partners are also preventative measures. Regular STD testing is recommended for sexually active individuals, as many STIs can be asymptomatic.
Vaccination prevents certain lesion-causing STDs, notably the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. The HPV vaccine protects against types of HPV that cause most genital warts and several cancers. This vaccine is recommended for adolescents before sexual activity, and can be administered up to age 45 for some individuals.
Once diagnosed, adherence to prescribed treatment is important for healing lesions, preventing complications, and reducing transmission risk. For chronic conditions like herpes, antiviral medications manage outbreaks, reduce their frequency and severity, and lower transmission likelihood. Informing sexual partners about a diagnosis is also important so they can seek testing and treatment.