Quick answer. The most common STDs in Singapore include chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, genital herpes and genital warts (HPV). Many of these infections cause mild symptoms or none at all, so you can have and pass on an STI without knowing. Bacterial STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis are curable with antibiotics, while viral ones like herpes and HPV are manageable. Testing is the only reliable way to know your status, so test after any unprotected sex or new partner.
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Sexually transmitted diseases are common and very treatable, but a key challenge is that many cause no obvious symptoms. In Singapore, the most frequently seen STIs are chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, genital herpes and genital warts caused by HPV. This guide explains typical symptoms, why testing matters even when you feel well, and when to seek care. It is general information and not a substitute for seeing a doctor.
At a glance
| Infection | Typical symptoms | Treatable? |
|---|---|---|
| Chlamydia | Often none; discharge, pain on urination | Curable with antibiotics |
| Gonorrhoea | Often none; thick discharge, painful urination | Curable with antibiotics |
| Syphilis | Painless sore, later rash, can be silent | Curable with antibiotics |
| Genital herpes (HSV) | Painful blisters or ulcers; often no symptoms | Manageable with antivirals |
| Genital warts (HPV) | Lumps or bumps in the genital area | Treatable; vaccine prevents many types |
Chlamydia and gonorrhoea
These bacterial infections are among the most common in Singapore and frequently cause no symptoms. When symptoms occur, they can include abnormal genital discharge and pain or burning when passing urine, often appearing within days to two weeks of exposure. Both are curable with antibiotics, but untreated they can cause complications such as pelvic infection and fertility problems, so testing and treatment matter.
Syphilis
Syphilis often begins with a single firm, round, painless sore where the bacteria entered, which can be easy to miss. Later stages may bring a rash, including on the palms and soles, swollen glands, fever, hair loss or fatigue, and the infection can then go silent for years. Syphilis is curable with antibiotics, and early treatment prevents serious long-term harm, so blood testing is important after possible exposure.
Genital herpes (HSV)
Genital herpes is a viral infection that can cause painful blisters and ulcers, though many people have no symptoms and do not know they are infected. It can still be passed to partners even without visible sores. There is no cure, but antiviral medication manages outbreaks and reduces transmission, and a doctor can advise on long-term care.
Genital warts and HPV
Genital warts are caused by certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) and appear as lumps or bumps in the genital area. Other HPV types can cause cervical and other cancers. Warts can be treated, and HPV vaccination, available in Singapore including through the national programme for eligible adolescents, prevents many cancer-causing and wart-causing types. Cervical screening remains important even after vaccination.
Why many STIs have no symptoms
Infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis and herpes are often silent, which is exactly why they spread. You cannot tell from looking whether you or a partner has an STI. Regular testing is the most reliable way to protect your own health and your partners.
- Use condoms to lower the risk of most STIs.
- Test after unprotected sex or with a new partner.
- Consider HPV vaccination where appropriate.
When to test and get treated
Consider testing if you have had unprotected sex, a new or multiple partners, symptoms such as discharge, sores or pain on urination, or a partner who has been diagnosed with an STI. You can test at a GP, the DSC Clinic or a private clinic. Most STIs are straightforward to treat, and informing partners so they can also be tested helps prevent reinfection.
How to prepare for a clinic visit
You do not need to do anything elaborate before seeing a doctor about possible STI symptoms, but a little preparation helps. Try not to pass urine for an hour or so before the visit if a urine test for chlamydia or gonorrhoea is likely, as a recent urination can affect the sample; the clinic will confirm what is needed. Note the date of any possible exposure, the type of contact, and when symptoms started, as this guides which tests and swab sites are appropriate. Bring a list of your current medications and any allergies.
What to expect at the appointment
The consultation is confidential. The doctor will ask about your symptoms and sexual history in a matter-of-fact way to work out which infections to test for and where to swab. An examination of the genital area, and sometimes the throat or rectum depending on the exposure, may be offered. Tests can include blood samples for HIV and syphilis, urine tests or swabs for chlamydia and gonorrhoea, and a swab of any sore for herpes. Many results take a few days, though some clinics offer rapid options.
Partner notification and self-care
If you are diagnosed, telling recent partners so they can be tested and treated is important to prevent reinfection and onward spread; clinic staff can advise on how to do this, including anonymous options. While waiting for results or completing treatment, avoid sex or use condoms, and complete the full course of any antibiotics even if symptoms settle. Using condoms consistently and testing after a new partner remain the most effective everyday steps.
Special situations
In pregnancy, several STIs can affect the baby, so testing and prompt treatment are especially important; tell your doctor if you are or might be pregnant. Recurrent infections, symptoms that do not settle after treatment, or a partner with a confirmed STI all warrant review rather than self-treatment.
Common questions
Can I have an STI with no symptoms?
Yes. Chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis and herpes are often silent, which is why they spread. Testing is the only reliable way to know your status.
Are STIs curable?
Bacterial STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis are curable with antibiotics. Viral infections such as herpes and HIV are not cured but are well managed with treatment.
How soon after exposure can I test?
It depends on the infection because each has a window period before tests turn reliable. If you test very early, your doctor may advise repeating the test later.
Related guides
- Best Sexual Health & STD Clinics in Singapore — our editorial shortlist
- sexual health & STD clinics directory
- STD testing
- PrEP and PEP
- Anonymous HIV test
Sources
- DSC Clinic – Types of STIs
- NCID – Sexually Transmitted Infections
- HealthHub – HPV vaccine
- DSC Clinic – Vaccination
Related conditions & guides
Related conditions and guides you may find useful:
- Chlamydia & Gonorrhoea in Singapore
- Genital Herpes (HSV) in Singapore
- Genital Warts & HPV in Singapore
- HPV Vaccination in Singapore
- Syphilis in Singapore
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