Q:

About two weeks ago, my boyfriend and I decided to have sex without a condom because we both enjoy the sensation better. He was tested for just about everything fall quarter because he had to do a health screen for the military. I realize that unprotected sex is unsafe, but I've been tested for gonorrhea/chlamydia and have no history of risky behavior. My partner has been tested for just about everything (besides HPV).

A couple days later I started to have yeast infection-like symptoms (odor, itching, slight discharge), but I'm not sure if it's from having unprotected sex, recently starting on Nuva Ring, or if it was because it was a couple days before my period started. Or is it a combination of all of them? All the symptoms have gone away.

Should we continue with our method because we're being somewhat safe and monogamous? Should I come see a provider for my prior symptoms?

 

A:

Vaginal symptoms that resolve with your menses are common and do not necessarily mean you have a sexually transmitted infection.  If you have no symptoms now, it is hard to justify coming to clinic for an evaluation.  Yes, infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea can be silent with no symptoms at all, but it is unlikely in two previously screened monogamous people.

Simply being sexually active can cause vaginal changes in pH and normal bacteria with odor, due to the presence of semen or due to microabrasions that can cause irritation and itching.  The presence of the NuvaRing can also be a factor.  Make sure you are using adequate lubrication and if you have vaginal symptoms that persist, despite a period, or for more than a few days, it makes sense to be evaluated again.

~The Doc