Gonorrhea is caused by a bacterium called Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and transmitted through unprotected sex (oral, anal or vaginal) and improper sharing of sex toys. It has an incubation period (i.e. the time between infection and the appearance of symptoms) of 2-14 days. The first noticeable symptom in men is often a painful sensation during urination. Other symptoms may include: greater frequency or urgency of urination, a pus-like discharge (or drip) from the penis (white, yellow, beige, or greenish), swelling or redness at the opening of the penis, swelling or pain in the testicles, and a persistent sore throat. The risk of infection can be greatly reduced by using condoms and practicing safe sex.

 

Genital warts are caused by a virus called HPV and transmitted through contact with the genitals / anus, or use of unsterilized towels and underwear. It has an incubation period of a few weeks to 8 months. A common sympton is the formation of soft, flesh-colored bumps in the genital area and around/inside the anus. Over time, these bumps will cluster and resemble a cauliflower in their apperance. They can cause mild bleeding, irritation and infection due to itchiness. Although genital warts cannot be cured completely, proper treatment can help contain their development and prevent their return. If visible warts do not go away with time, you may seek help from a physician who can remove the warts through surgery, e.g. by freezing them, burning them with electric currents, laser treatments, excision, or interferon injections. To reduce the risk of infection, develop good personal hygiene habits and keep your genitals dry and clean before and after sex. 

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Genital herpes are caused by a virus called HSV II and transmitted through unprotected sex (oral, anal or vaginal) and direct contact with skin where blisters or sores have developed (e.g. via contact with sores around the mouth during kissing). Note that patients with no obvious symptoms can also infect others sometimes. The incubation period usually ranges from 2 to  12 days. At first, blisters may appear in the genital area, around the anus, in the mouth, on the lips, and anywhere else that came into contact with the infected areas. The infected site often starts to itch before the actual appearance of blisters. The blisters may turn into open sores and ooze fluid. Within a week of the outbreak, a crust may appear over the sores. Lymph glands may become swollen for a few weeks, and the person may experience headaches, body aches, fatigue, and fever in the same period. To reduce the risk of infection, practice safe sex and avoid sharing towels and other toiletries. There is no cure for genital herpes, but the condition can be managed with medication. The disease stays dormant within your body until something triggers an outbreak. Outbreaks can happen when you become stressed, sick, or tired. Your doctor should help you come up with a treatment plan that will help you manage your outbreaks.