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Sexual Health Blog — Page 3

Expert, evidence-based articles on STIs, testing, prevention, and sexual wellbeing. Written by UK sexual health experts.

69 ArticlesPage 3 of 8

Articles — Page 3

Showing 19–27 of 69
Is Male Discharge Normal? Clear Penile Discharge, Causes & When to Test
Sexual Health
12 min read

Is Male Discharge Normal? Clear Penile Discharge, Causes & When to Test

Male discharge can be completely normal in some situations, such as pre-ejaculate during arousal. However, changes in colour, smell, texture, or frequency may indicate infection or inflammation. This comprehensive guide explains normal versus abnormal penile discharge, including clear discharge from the penis without an STD, common non-STI causes, and sexually transmitted infections that may require testing.

STI Clinic Team
Swallowing Semen: Calories, Health Effects & STI Risks Explained
Sexual Health
8 min read

Swallowing Semen: Calories, Health Effects & STI Risks Explained

Questions about swallowing semen are common, especially regarding calorie content, skin benefits, and possible health effects. This guide explains what semen is made of, how many calories are in seminal fluid, whether sperm has proven health or skincare benefits, and the potential STI risks linked to oral sex. It provides factual, evidence-based information to help individuals make informed decisions about sexual health.

STI Clinic Team
Red Bumps on the Penis: Is It Gonorrhoea, an STI, or Something Else?
STI Facts
9 min read

Red Bumps on the Penis: Is It Gonorrhoea, an STI, or Something Else?

Red bumps on the penis or unexplained genital skin changes can feel alarming. While many rashes are caused by irritation, fungal infection, or dermatitis, certain sexually transmitted infections may also cause red spots or systemic rash symptoms. This guide explains when a skin rash from gonorrhoea may occur, how it differs from other STI-related rashes, and when confidential testing may help clarify the cause.

STI Clinic Team
Sore or Itchy Head of the Penis: Causes, Symptoms & When Testing Helps
Sexual Health
10 min read

Sore or Itchy Head of the Penis: Causes, Symptoms & When Testing Helps

A sore or itchy head of the penis can be uncomfortable and worrying, especially when symptoms persist or recur. This guide explains common symptoms, non-infectious skin conditions, fungal infections, and sexually transmitted infections that may affect the glans. It outlines recognised assessment approaches, hygiene considerations, and prevention strategies, and explains when laboratory testing may help clarify the cause.

STI Clinic Team
Penile Discharge Explained: When to Be Concerned and What It May Indicate
Sexual Health
11 min read

Penile Discharge Explained: When to Be Concerned and What It May Indicate

Penile discharge is a symptom that can arise from a range of causes, including infections, inflammation, or irritation of the urinary or genital tract. This guide explains what penile discharge is, how normal discharge differs from abnormal discharge, common underlying causes such as sexually transmitted infections and non-infectious conditions, and symptoms that may warrant further assessment. It also outlines recognised testing approaches, prevention strategies, and why early assessment is important for sexual health reassurance.

STI Clinic Team
The Silent Epidemic: How Widespread Is Herpes in Britain?
STI Facts
10 min read

The Silent Epidemic: How Widespread Is Herpes in Britain?

Herpes is one of the most widespread viral infections in Britain, yet many people remain unaware they carry the virus. This guide explores how common herpes is in the UK, the differences between HSV-1 and HSV-2, typical and atypical symptoms, how the virus is transmitted, and why stigma remains a major barrier to testing. It also explains recognised management approaches, prevention strategies, and when confidential herpes testing may help individuals better understand their sexual health.

STI Clinic Team
Vaginal Odour Treatment and Good Hygiene: Causes, Care & Prevention
Sexual Health
9 min read

Vaginal Odour Treatment and Good Hygiene: Causes, Care & Prevention

Vaginal odour can change naturally due to hormones, exercise, or menstruation. However, a persistent or fishy smell may indicate an underlying imbalance or infection. This guide explains normal versus abnormal vaginal odour, common causes such as bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, thrush, and sexually transmitted infections, and outlines recognised management approaches, hygiene practices, and prevention strategies. It also explains when testing may be appropriate and when further medical assessment is recommended.

STI Clinic Team
Identifying the Early Symptoms of HIV in Males and Females
STI Facts
12 min read

Identifying the Early Symptoms of HIV in Males and Females

Early HIV infection often begins with flu-like symptoms that many people overlook. This guide explains the early signs of HIV in men and women, including fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, skin rashes, digestive issues, and night sweats. It also covers how symptoms progress, differences between acute HIV and AIDS, and when early HIV testing is essential for accurate diagnosis, treatment, and long-term health protection.

STI Clinic Team

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