Sores or ulcers showing up in your nether regions can feel like a massive red flag waving in your face, but before you hit the panic button, it’s important to know that not every sore or ulcer is a sign of a sexually transmitted infection (STI). There are plenty of reasons these pesky skin issues can show up, and while some are STI-related, others might have nothing to do with your sex life at all.
The STI-Related Culprits
Let’s tackle the STI angle first because, yes, some sores or ulcers can absolutely be linked to infections transmitted sexually. Also our brand kind of revolves around STI’s, so we know a thing or two about these pesky infections. These are the common offenders:
1. Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)
What it looks like: Painful blisters or ulcers, often around the mouth or genitals.
What causes it: HSV-1 or HSV-2, transmitted through skin-to-skin contact.
How common is it? The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that globally, over 1 in 5 adults aged 15–49 are living with genital herpes infections.
The kicker: Many people with herpes don’t know they have it because they might not experience symptoms—or they mistake their symptoms for something else, like an extra evil razor burn.
2. Syphilis
What it looks like: A single, painless sore (called a chancre) at the site of infection, usually in the early stages.
What causes it: The bacterium Treponema pallidum.
How common is it? Syphilis rates have been rising in the U.S. and Canada, with over 176,000 new cases in the U.S. in 2021, according to the CDC. PHAC also notes an increase in Canada.
The kicker: Syphilis sores can disappear on their own, but that doesn’t mean the infection is gone. Left untreated, syphilis can progress to more serious stages.
3. Chancroid
What it looks like: Painful ulcers with ragged edges and swollen lymph nodes.
What causes it: The bacterium Haemophilus ducreyi.
How common is it? Rare in countries like the U.S. and Canada but still seen in some areas globally.
Non-STI Causes of Sores and Ulcers
Not every sore has an STI story to tell. Here are some other possible explanations for what’s going on:
1. Ingrown Hairs
What it looks like: Small, red, and often tender bumps, sometimes with a visible hair trapped inside.
What causes it: Shaving or waxing gone rogue.
The kicker: These can sometimes look suspiciously like herpes blisters, but they’re harmless and usually go away on their own.
2. Folliculitis
What it looks like: Red or pus-filled bumps around hair follicles.
What causes it: Bacteria, fungi, or even irritation from tight clothing.
The kicker: “Give me some breathing room!” says your skin. “Ok geez,” you respond.
3. Contact Dermatitis
What it looks like: Red, itchy, and sometimes blistering skin.
What causes it: An allergic reaction or irritation from soaps, lotions, or certain fabrics.
The kicker: Your choice of laundry detergent might be the real culprit here, not your latest Tinder date.
4. Autoimmune Conditions
What it looks like: Sores or ulcers that don’t seem to fit the usual patterns.
What causes it: Conditions like Behçet’s disease or lupus can cause skin symptoms, including ulcers.
The kicker: These are less common and usually come with other symptoms, so it’s worth chatting with a healthcare provider if something seems off.
When Should You Worry?
Let’s face it: no one likes to see a sore or ulcer pop up, regardless of the cause. But not all sores are created equal, and some are more concerning than others. Here’s when to seek medical advice:
Painful or persistent sores: If a sore doesn’t heal within a week or two, it’s worth getting checked out.
Unusual discharge or odor: If a sore is accompanied by other symptoms, like discharge, it’s time to book an appointment.
Fever or swollen lymph nodes: These can be signs that your body is fighting off an infection.
Public Health Ontario emphasizes the importance of early testing and treatment for STIs to prevent complications. Even if your sore isn’t STI-related, it’s better to know than to guess.
Prevention: The Best Practice
Prevention is key in reducing the spread of STIs. Here are some steps to minimize risk:
Use Protection: Consistent use of condoms and dental dams significantly reduces the risk of STI transmission.
Vaccinate: Vaccines for HPV and hepatitis B offer excellent protection.
Communicate: Open and honest discussions with sexual partners about STI testing and sexual health is healthy for relationships, and helps to create mutual responsibility.
Get Tested: Regular testing ensures early detection and treatment. If you’re sexually active with multiple partners, get tested every three months.
If getting to the test centre is getting annoying, try and find some reward in it! Maybe there’s a bakery near the test centre that has a nice sweet treat for you. Or maybe the guy working at the centre is super cute and you get an excuse to talk to him. There’s ALWAYS a way to justify a trip to get tested.
Final Thoughts
Sores or ulcers can be alarming, but they’re not always a sign of an STI. While some infections like herpes and syphilis are known culprits, other factors—like ingrown hairs or contact dermatitis—can also be to blame. The key is to pay attention to your body, get tested regularly, and seek medical advice if something doesn’t seem right.
Remember, staying informed and proactive is the best way to protect your health. And if nothing else, a little knowledge can help ease the stress of wondering, “What is that?”
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