[Question #11964] Worried with On-going symptoms

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11 months ago
Hello Doctor, 
I posted regarding an exposure I had with a female sex worker about 9 weeks ago. My symptoms have not cleared even though I had negative tests via urine sample  for both Chlamydia  and Gonorrhea two weeks after exposure. Urine culture test also clear. 

My exposure: I received oral sex on my penis with a condom, not sure if the condom was on properly as I was not hard the whole time. The female sex worker touched herself and with the same hand started to then touch and masturbate my penis. Her vaginal secretions were on her hands. 

My symptoms: Pain in Urethra. Also Itching in the urethra and penis head. Also I had frequent urination but now that has now started to settle. 

Questions: Do you believe this could be another STI like Mycoplasma Genitalium or Trichomoniasis? 


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H. Hunter Handsfield, MD
11 months ago
Welcome back to the forum. Unfortunately, we can't help very much.

I reviewed your recent discussion with Dr. Hook and agree entirely with his replies, and this question doesn't ask anything not covered there. You describe a zero risk exposure in regards to STDs, and that includes M. genitalium and trichomonas. In addition, as Dr. Hook said, STDs simply do not cause the kinds of symptoms you have had. I also agree with his assessment that your symptoms may be due entirely to anxiety and stress over a sexual decision you may regret. Psychology is a potent influence in magnifying trivial symptoms or even normal body sensations that otherwise would not be bothersome and perhaps not even noticed.

If your symptoms continue, you might consider seeing a urologist to assure no treatable physical cause. Or ask your primary care provider about possible referral for professional counseling. I suggest it from compassion, not criticism. In the meantime, please be assured you have no STD or any other infection from the sexual exposure you have described.

I hope these comments are helpful. Best wishes.

HHH, MD
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11 months ago
Thank you for the response doctor I really appreciate all the expertise this forum provides. 

For educational purposes are you able to answer my last two questions: 
1. How is Trichonmoniasis and Mycoplasma Genitalium Spread? 

2. Can Trichonmoniasis and Mycoplasma Genitalium live outside the body? Or does it easily die when exposed to air?

I do have an appointment with a urologist for my symptoms, but with where I live and the health care system back-ups my appointment is not scheduled until January! Long time to wait. But that’s why these forums help so much! 
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H. Hunter Handsfield, MD
11 months ago
1. By vaginal sex; rarely rectal. Maybe rare oral for M genitalium, but never for trichomonas.
2. Probably not — immediate killing by air exposure.

But these questions are irrelevant anyway. Neither would cause the symptoms you describe.

Sorry it’s so difficult to get specialty care, but a general physician also can be very helpful. In any case, there is no hurry at all. Your symptoms do not suggest anything serious at all. Or just seek professional counseling, given the likely psychological/anxiety cause.

That completes the two follow-up comments and replies included with each question. Please note the forum policy against repeated questions on the same topic. This being your second, it should be your last; excessive questions are subject to being deleted without reply. But I’ll make a deal with you:  if contrary to all expectations you turn out to have an STD as the cause, return to let us know and we’ll reimburse your posting fee.

Best wishes, stay safe, and do your best to stop worrying about this. You’re fine!
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