I dont know whether i'm just paranoid...

Hi, ive recentlly just started having sex with a new partner (sexual partner number 2), and we are always cautious of using a condom, however not so much during forplay. Whilst there is no penetration without a condom, i'm slightly worried bout some symptoms i have noticed. It started when I felt a burning sensation whilst going to the toilet, which has generally cleared up by me using cystitis medicine, although ive started to get a slightly different discharge than normally. Im due on my period in the next couple of days, however, I am also experiencing itching...all of which could be symptoms of an STI. perhaps i'm being paranoid...so thats where i would greatly appeciate some help!

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

Increased frequency of sex is often associated with bacterial urinary tract infection (UTI) in women (i.e. bladder infection = cystitis); the term "honeymoon cystitis" used to be commonly used to describe it.  The most common cause is E. coli, but different strains than associated with food-borne diarrhea.  It isn't acquired from the partner, i.e. not an STD, but is common in and around the vagina.  Sex massages the bacteria into the urethra.

So your use of "cystitis medicine" may have been appropriate.  Then perhaps you got a yeast infection, which can follow antibiotic therapy.  (What extra antibiotic did you have lying around?)

Having said all that, depending on the extent of secretion exchange on hands or through genital apposition (without penetration), your symptoms could be due to a vaginal infection other than yeast, such as trichomonas; or to chlamydia, gonorrhea, or herpes.  Most likely not, but if your symptoms persist, you will need to see a health care provider.

Best wishes--  HHH, MD