Can STDs Cause Stomach Pain
Can STD cause stomach pain is a question many people ask, and the answer is yes for some infections. Chlamydia and gonorrhea can spread from the cervix into the upper reproductive tract and cause pelvic inflammatory disease, which often brings lower abdominal or pelvic pain. Trichomoniasis and other infections can also cause discomfort. The pain can feel like cramping, aching, or pressure in the lower belly. If you have stomach pain and a possible exposure, testing can help find the cause.
Which STDs Can Cause Stomach Pain
Chlamydia and gonorrhea are the STDs most likely to cause stomach pain, because they can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease. This condition affects the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries, and it often causes lower abdominal pain. Trichomoniasis can also cause pelvic discomfort in some women.
Other STDs, such as syphilis and HIV, do not typically cause stomach pain in their early stages. If you have pain, it is important to consider other causes as well, including urinary tract infections and digestive issues.
What the Pain Feels Like
Stomach pain from an STD is usually felt in the lower abdomen or pelvis. It can feel like cramping, aching, or a dull pressure. Some people describe it as similar to menstrual cramps. The pain may be constant or come and go.
If you notice these symptoms along with the pain, it is a good idea to get tested. Even if the pain goes away on its own, the infection can still be present and can still cause lasting damage.
In some cases, the pain is accompanied by other symptoms, such as unusual discharge, bleeding between periods, or pain during sex. These signs together can point to an infection.
Why Early Testing Matters
If chlamydia or gonorrhea is not treated, pelvic inflammatory disease can cause lasting damage. It can lead to chronic pelvic pain, scarring of the fallopian tubes, and infertility. Early testing and treatment prevent these complications.
Both infections are curable with antibiotics. The sooner you are tested and treated, the lower your risk of long-term problems.
When to Get Tested
If you have lower abdominal or pelvic pain and have had a possible exposure, testing is a good next step. Testing is also important if you have other symptoms like discharge or pain during sex.
If you have questions about your symptoms or results, write them down and bring them to your follow-up appointment. Your provider can explain what your symptoms mean and what steps you should take next.
If your pain is severe, sudden, or getting worse, see a provider right away. Severe pain can be a sign of a serious condition that needs prompt care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can STDs cause stomach pain?
Yes. Chlamydia and gonorrhea can spread into the upper reproductive tract and cause pelvic inflammatory disease, which often brings lower abdominal or pelvic pain. Trichomoniasis can also cause pelvic discomfort in some women. Trichomoniasis can also cause pelvic discomfort in some women, and other infections can cause pain as well.
What does STD-related stomach pain feel like?
The pain is usually felt in the lower abdomen or pelvis and can feel like cramping, aching, or a dull pressure. Some people describe it as similar to menstrual cramps. It may be constant or come and go. Some people describe it as similar to menstrual cramps, and it may be constant or come and go.
Can untreated STDs cause lasting stomach problems?
Yes. Untreated chlamydia or gonorrhea can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, which can cause chronic pelvic pain, scarring of the fallopian tubes, and infertility. Early testing and treatment prevent these complications. Early testing and treatment prevent these complications, which is why prompt care matters.
When should I see a provider for stomach pain?
If your pain is severe, sudden, or getting worse, see a provider right away. If you have lower abdominal pain and a possible exposure, testing can help find the cause. Severe pain can be a sign of a serious condition. Severe pain can be a sign of a serious condition that needs prompt care.
Sources
- CDC. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease. https://www.cdc.gov/std/pid/default.htm
- CDC. Chlamydia. https://www.cdc.gov/std/chlamydia/default.htm
- MedlinePlus. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). https://medlineplus.gov/sexuallytransmittedinfections.html
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