What is an STI?
Knowledge protects you. Protecting your body and future. STIs are diseases transmitted through sexual activity. Most infections occur through mucosal contact, and anyone can be infected, even after a single sexual encounter. Since infections are often asymptomatic, you may unknowingly pass them to your partner, making regular screening and prompt treatment essential.
Major STIs and Their Characteristics
Correct knowledge and testing are crucial, as many of these diseases are often asymptomatic. There are various types of infections, each with different symptoms and risks. Many are slow to show symptoms, allowing the infection to spread unknowingly. Here is a brief introduction to the characteristics and treatments of the major STIs we address at our clinic.
Chlamydia Infection
One of the most common STIs in Japan. Women often have few symptoms, but it can cause infertility or ectopic pregnancy.
- Main Symptoms: Increased discharge, lower abdominal pain, pain during intercourse; often asymptomatic.
- Testing Method: Urine test, vaginal swab.
- Treatment: Oral antibiotics.
Gonorrhea Infection
Symptoms are similar to those of Chlamydia but can cause more severe inflammatory reactions. If left untreated, there is a risk of the infection spreading to the uterus and fallopian tubes.
- Main Symptoms: Pus-like discharge, pain when urinating, and lower abdominal pain.
- Testing Method: Urine test, vaginal swab.
- Treatment: Oral or intravenous antibiotics.
Mycoplasma Infection
Although still not widely known as an STI, this is a bacterial infection causing symptoms similar to Chlamydia. It is often asymptomatic in women and is suspected to cause chronic cervicitis or infertility.
- Main Symptoms: Increased discharge, mild lower abdominal pain, pain during intercourse; often asymptomatic.
- Testing Method: PCR test on vaginal swab or urine.
- Treatment: Oral antibiotics.
- Caution: Some strains are drug-resistant; retesting after treatment is recommended.
Ureaplasma Infection
Similar to Mycoplasma, this infection is caused by microorganisms smaller than typical bacteria. It is an STI that may affect the fetus if acquired during pregnancy, making pre-conception screening recommended.
- Main Symptoms: Mild vaginal discomfort, urethral itching or discomfort; often asymptomatic.
- Testing Method: PCR test on vaginal swab or urine.
- Treatment: Oral antibiotics.
- Note: Although it can sometimes resolve naturally, there is a risk of it contributing to infertility, premature birth, placental infection during pregnancy, and fetal/neonatal infection, requiring caution.
Trichomoniasis
An inflammation caused by a protozoan transmitted through sexual activity and characterized by foamy, foul-smelling discharge and itching.
- Main Symptoms: Foamy discharge, vulvar itching, and discomfort.
- Testing Method: Microscopic examination of vaginal swab, PCR test.
- Treatment: Oral anti-protozoal medication.
HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C
Symptoms are often absent in the early stages, and cases can go undiagnosed for long periods. Regular screening is recommended, as a single test can provide peace of mind.
- Main Symptoms: Asymptomatic in the early stages; progression leads to immune suppression, liver dysfunction, etc.
- Testing Method: Blood test.
- Treatment: Referral to a specialist is required, with continuous treatment necessary.
Syphilis
An STI that has been increasing recently. Early symptoms include a hard chancre (sore), and progression causes rashes all over the body. If left untreated, it can lead to a severe infection that affects the heart and nervous system.
- Main Symptoms: Chancre, rash, swollen lymph nodes, fever.
- Testing Method: Blood test.
- Treatment: Antibiotics.
Genital Herpes
An infection caused by the herpes simplex virus, leading to blisters and painful ulcers. Recurrence is possible.
- Main Symptoms: Pain, blisters, and sores around the genitals and anus.
- Testing Method: Visual inspection, virus culture test.
- Treatment: Antiviral medication (oral or topical).
Genital Warts (Condyloma Acuminata)
Caused by certain types of HPV (Human Papillomavirus). Small, cauliflower-like warts appear around the genitals and anus, and the number may increase.
- Main Symptoms: Painless warts (cauliflower-like), itching.
- Testing Method: Visual inspection.
- Treatment: Options Include Cryotherapy, electrocautery, topical medication, and others.
Flow of Examination
We guide you carefully so you can feel assured even on your first visit.
STI testing is performed based on your symptoms and preferences. The examination time is generally about 5 to 10 minutes and is conducted using low-pain, low-burden methods.
Examples of Testing Methods:
- Urine test
- Collection of vaginal secretions
- Blood test
- Visual inspection / Medical interview
Even if you are asymptomatic, you can visit for screening or confirmation, such as if you are “worried and want to be tested” or “your partner was infected.” Furthermore, services by female physicians and staff are available upon request; please inform us when making your reservation.
Recommended For
- You are concerned about the amount or odor of discharge.
- You experience pain or discomfort when urinating.
- You have bleeding or itching after intercourse.
- Your partner has been diagnosed with an STI.
- You have never been tested.
- You want to confirm your status in preparation for a future pregnancy.
“No symptoms” does not equal “not infected.” If any of the above apply to you, we recommend consulting us, even if you do not have symptoms. More people are choosing to be tested with their partner.
About Our Fees
Testing for preventive or confirmation purposes is a self-pay medical service. The fee for each respective type is shown below. However, if you experience symptoms, health insurance may be applicable.
- Chlamydia and Gonorrhea Test Set 7,700 yen
(Chlamydia or Gonorrhea alone is 4,400 yen each) - Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma Test Set 7,700 yen
(Mycoplasma or Ureaplasma alone is 4,400 yen each) - Trichomoniasis 4,400 yen
- HIV Test 4,400 yen
- Syphilis Test 4,400 yen
- Hepatitis Test Set (Hepatitis B and C) 11,000 yen
- STI Full Set Test (9 items total) 18,700 yen
- STI Perfect Check (Full Set Test + Genital Herpes and Genital Warts) 22,000 yen
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
| Q | Can I receive a consultation with my partner? |
| A | Of course. Testing and treatment for both partners are effective in preventing re-infection. |
| Q | Is insurance applicable? |
| A | Insurance coverage is possible if you have symptoms. Testing conducted for reasons of “confirmation” or “anxiety” when you are asymptomatic is a self-pay medical service. |
| Q | How soon are the results available? |
| A | This depends on the type of test, but results are typically available within one week. |
In Closing
Take the first step for your peace of mind. STIs are by no means “diseases only for certain people.” Because anyone is at risk of infection, knowing and caring for your body is the best way to prevent it.
Our clinic provides a safe environment where you can undergo testing and consultations with confidence, supporting your emotional well-being. Please consult us about any concerns, no matter how small.
Booking an Appointment
Outpatient consultations at our clinic are by appointment. For smoother guidance, please make a reservation in advance using the online reservation form. Even without a reservation, you may receive a consultation on the day. Please feel free to inquire.
TEL：03-6450-3850
