STDs

A venereal disease is a group of infectious diseases that are transmitted sexually, either through vaginal intercourse, anally or orally. The infection occurs via contact between skin and mucous membranes in the mouth, genitals and intestines, some can also be infected via blood.

On this page you can read more about the different types of sexually transmitted diseases, typical symptoms and why it is so important to protect yourself during intercourse. If you experience changes or typical symptoms, it may be a good idea to have an examination by a doctor or gynaecologist.

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Why is it so important to use a condom?

Condoms are the safest we have to avoid sexually transmitted diseases. Condom use in Norway is increasing, but still half choose not to use a condom when having sex but a new partner.

In Norway, we are lucky to have a good and accessible healthcare system, which contributes to many people shrugging their shoulders and instead focusing on curing afterwards. It is neither good for individual nor collective health to take more antibiotics than necessary, it contributes to the bacteria becoming resistant and the medicine losing its effect.

If you go too long without treating STDs, this can have consequences such as pelvic infections, epididymitis and infertility. Our advice to avoid infection is to use a condom and check between each new sex partner. This is how we keep the infection down, and you ensure that you do not go too long with potential infection and do not pass on the infection.

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Iselin Guttormsen x Dr.Dropin

In collaboration with Iselin Guttormsen, we want to get more people to use condoms when having sex with a new partner and test themselves between sex partners.

Dr. Daniel Sørli is visiting Iselin Guttormsen. Watch the video of the visit here.

Chlamydia: Norway's most common venereal disease

Chlamydia is an infection caused by the sexually transmitted bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. Chlamydia infection is a sexually transmitted disease. It can also be transmitted directly from fingers or objects. It is the most common bacterial venereal disease among young people in Norway, where it is estimated that around 3-6% of all young men and women under the age of 25 have the infection. The bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis primarily attacks the lining of the urethra and cervical canal, but can also cause infection anal and in the mouth. From the time you become infected until it is possible to detect the infection, it takes about 5-14 days.

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Typical symptoms of a venereal disease

The symptoms vary between the different sexually transmitted diseases, but general symptoms are:

  • Altered discharge in women (altered odor, amount, color, consistency)
  • Discharge from the penis
  • Itching, burning, discomfort when urinating (or even outside of urination)
  • Blood in the urine
  • Changed color and odor of urine
  • Small vaginal bleeding in women
  • Rash, blisters, sores or warts on the genitals or around the rectum
  • Discomfort, pain from the abdomen or lower back
  • Read more about sexually transmitted diseases here
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Gynekolog når du trenger det

At Dr. Dropin, you can come to skilled gynecologists with broad experience in women's health. They can help with everything from checks and pap smears, ultrasounds and investigations in early pregnancy and fertility training.

  • Short waiting time
  • Fixed and reasonable prices
  • No referral
Read more about Dr. Dropin Gynecologist hereBook an appointment with a gynecologist

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How long after possible infection with sexually transmitted diseases can you get tested?

Days after possible time of infection*:

Gonorrhea: 14 days

Mycoplasma: 14 days

HIV: 12 weeks

Syphilis: 12 weeks

Chlamydia: 14 days

*This applies if you have no symptoms. In the event of symptoms, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Are STDs dangerous?

It can be dangerous to go with it untreated for a long time, as the infection can spread in the abdomen, up to the kidneys and further into the bloodstream and cause a serious infection. It can also lead to infertility in both men and women.

Why is a fungal infection not a sexually transmitted disease?

Fungal infection is not considered a sexually transmitted disease as it is not sexually transmitted. STDs are infections that are transmitted through sexual contact.

Should I get tested for STDs often?

If you have new or more sexual partners and have had unprotected intercourse, it is a good idea to get tested afterwards to avoid having an untreated infection and spread this further.

I have been diagnosed with a venereal disease, should I tell my partner?

Absolutely! One is obliged to inform those who may be infected about the disease, so that they can also be tested and treated.

I have just been treated for an STD, but I'm not better. What do I do?

In some cases, it may take some time for the symptoms to subside, as the mucous membranes are irritated. But if you still have discharge, blood, pain etc, contact a doctor again so you can check the answer to the tests and assure you have received the right treatment. In some cases, a control sample is needed 2 weeks after the first treatment.

What is the difference between chlamydia and gonorrhea?

Chlamydia and gonorrhea are both sexually transmitted infections caused by different bacteria. Chlamydia is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, while gonorrhea is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The symptoms may be similar, but the two infections require different types of treatment.

What sexually transmitted diseases are there?

Some common STDs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, genital herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV), and HIV/AIDS.

How do you know you have sexually transmitted diseases?

Symptoms of STDs can vary, but common indications include painful urination, abnormal discharge from the urethra or vagina, sores or blisters in the genital area, itching or irritation, and general flu-like symptoms. Testing is the surest way to confirm the presence of an STD.

Can you get STDs in your mouth?

Yes, it is possible to get STDs in the mouth through oral sex, including infections such as herpes, gonorrhea, chlamydia and HPV.

Can STDs go away on their own?

Sometimes mild infections, such as chlamydia, can go away on their own, but this is not guaranteed. Untreated, STDs can lead to serious complications and spread to others. It is therefore important to seek medical help and treatment if you suspect an infection.

What are the three most common venereal diseases?

The three most common sexually transmitted diseases in Norway are chlamydia, gonorrhea and genital herpes.

What is syphilis?

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. The infection can pass through several stages and can cause a wide range of symptoms such as sores on the genitals, rashes, and in later stages serious complications such as damage to internal organs, the nervous system and the brain. Syphilis can be treated with antibiotics, especially in the early stages, but early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent serious health problems.

Is gonorrhea worse than chlamydia?

Both gonorrhea and chlamydia are serious sexually transmitted infections that can cause significant health problems if left untreated. Gonorrhea and chlamydia can both lead to complications such as pelvic infections, infertility and an increased risk of pregnancy complications. The difference lies in the specific bacteria that cause the infection and the treatment methods. While chlamydia is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, gonorrhea is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. These infections are treated with different types of antibiotics. It is important to see a doctor for proper testing and treatment if you suspect a sexually transmitted disease.

What are the symptoms of mycoplasma?

The symptoms of mycoplasma can vary, but common symptoms include:

Painful urination
Abnormal discharge from the urethra or vagina
Pain in the lower abdomen
Itching or irritation in the genital area
Increased need to urinate
In women, it can also cause pain during intercourse and bleeding between menstrual periods.


Note that many people with mycoplasma can be asymptomatic, meaning they do not experience any symptoms. It is therefore important to seek medical help and testing if you suspect an infection.