Bupa research reveals three-quarters of those over 55 have never had a sexual health check. Our research also found an increase in Google searches for STI symptoms. 

Swollen testicle with pain

Searches for this term have increased by an alarming 243% from May 2021– June 2022. Volumes have increased considerably from October 2021– March 2022.

If you’re suffering from painful or swollen testicles, you should always speak to a health professional regardless of whether you’ve ever had unprotected sex. Although it’s rare, swollen, painful testicles that can be a sign of testicular cancer, you should always visit your GP to check you over.

More commonly, painful or swollen testicles can be caused by an infection, including gonorrhoea or chlamydia. If you’ve ever had unprotected sex, there’s a chance you could have picked up an STI.

Some people may find that they suffer from testicle pain and swelling for a short period, and then it goes away. But, you should still always speak to your GP about your symptoms so they can investigate what caused them.

Green discharge meaning

This keyword has seen a 200% increase in searches from July 2021 to June 2022. Green discharge is more likely to affect females – and isn’t always necessarily a sign of an STI. But, I’d always recommend that you speak to a health professional if you have any concerns over the appearance or odour of your discharge.

Most people with a vagina are likely to get discharged. It’s a normal substance that the vagina produces to keep itself clean and healthy. However, if you have had unprotected sex, a change in the colour, odour, or texture of your discharge can be one of the first warning signs of an infection.

Please see a health professional for appropriate testing and treatment if you notice any such changes.

Burning sensation while urinating

From July 2021 to June 2022, searches for ‘burning sensation while urinating’ have increased by 120%. Huge volumes were seen consistently between August 2021 and January 2022.

There are lots of reasons why you might feel a burning sensation when you pass urine (pee). Whatever the cause, you should always get it investigated by a health professional.

Pain when you pee can be caused by urinary tract infections (UTIs), urethritis and prostate conditions. But it can also be a symptom of sexually transmitted infections. These include chlamydia, gonorrhoea,trichomoniasis and genital herpes.

The good news is that treatment for most STIs is usually a simple course of antibiotics, antivirals, creams or liquids. It’s important to keep on top of your sexual health to avoid future health complications and passing any infections on to others.

Painful intercourse

Sex should be safe and enjoyable for everyone. But some problems can lead to painful sex. Painful intercourse can have several causes. These include generalised illness, physical problems around the genitalia, pelvis or abdomen, psychological problems, or infections.

Google search volumes suggest more people have been having painful sex in the UK since October 2021. That’s a 127% increase.

Several STIs can lead to pain during sex. So bear this in mind if you’ve ever had sexual contact without using a condom, which means you may need a sexual health check. Chlamydia, gonorrhoea, genital herpes, and trichomoniasis can lead to painful sex for both males and females.

It can lead to other infections affecting the vagina for those that have one. If sex hurts, it’s important to find out what’s causing the pain. A health professional can help you find the right treatment.

Itching in the private male area

Itchy genitals are uncomfortable and inconvenient, especially if you’re out in public. Google search volumes show that men with male genital anatomy have struggled with this issue. Searches for the phrase ‘itching in private male area’ have increased by 83% between summer 2021 and summer 2022.

If you’re feeling itchy down there, it’s best to avoid any sexual contact until you know what’s causing it. Possible causes include irritation from grooming, pubic lice or fungal infection. Or it could be a sexually transmitted infection such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, genital herpes, or genital warts.

An STI check will help identify or rule out any concerns and help put you on the right course of
treatment.

5 STI myths

All STIs have symptoms 

Many STIs have symptoms, but some can be completely symptomless such as chlamydia. That’s why taking ownership of your sexual health and getting yourself regularly tested is the only way to know whether you have an infection or may be passing it on to a sexual partner.

For example, if left untreated, chlamydia can cause pain in the testicles or affect your fertility; sexual health needs to become a priority because infections could have more serious consequences if left untreated.

You can only catch an STI if you have unprotected penetrative sex 

STIs spread through sexual activity of any kind, that includes vaginally, orally, or anally. You can also catch STIs from genital contact with someone infected or if you share sex toys with an infected person.

You can only get STI tested if you’re single

Whether you’re in a committed relationship or not, regular STI testing can help to pick up any
infection. For early detection and to prevent further health issues down the line, it’s recommended to get a comprehensive regularly.

You can’t cure all STIs – True

While many STIs can be treated with antibiotics, the cause of the infection and the length of time you’ve had it can affect treatment options. If your infection is viral, e.g., from herpes (HSV) or HIV, in many cases, it’s possible to manage the infection, but you won’t necessarily be fully cured.

Early detection is key – regular testing can help to flag any infections early and get you on a course of treatment sooner.

STI tests take ages and are embarrassing and painful 

There is no need to feel embarrassed or ashamed about attending STI screening; taking control of our sexual health and getting checked should be just as essential as seeing a doctor for any other health concerns you may have.

It’s nothing to worry about, is quick and often consists of a blood test, a urine sample or swabs from where you have the infection. If you have no symptoms and are testing to reassure yourself, you can do the relevant swabs on your own.