Back pain can have many causes—poor posture, injury, muscle strain—but did you know that certain sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can also lead to back pain?
While it’s not the most common symptom, back pain related to an STD can be a warning sign of a deeper infection, especially if it’s combined with other symptoms.
In this article, we’ll break down which STDs might cause back pain, what signs to watch for, and when it’s time to see a doctor.
Can an STD Really Cause Back Pain?
Yes. Some STDs can lead to inflammation, pelvic infections, or complications that trigger lower back pain. This pain is usually not isolated—it often comes with other symptoms like discharge, painful urination, or pelvic pressure.
STDs That Can Cause Back Pain
1. Chlamydia
- One of the most common bacterial STDs
- In women, it can cause Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) if untreated
- PID can lead to chronic pelvic pain that radiates to the lower back
- May also cause abnormal vaginal discharge and painful sex
2. Gonorrhea
- Another common STD that can lead to PID in women
- Can cause lower abdominal pain, backache, fever, and unusual discharge
- In men, may cause pain that radiates to the back due to prostate inflammation
3. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
- Not an STD itself, but a complication of untreated STDs like chlamydia and gonorrhea
- Causes inflammation of the reproductive organs
- Can lead to chronic lower back and pelvic pain
4. Herpes (HSV-2)
- Herpes outbreaks may cause nerve-related pain
- Some people feel aching or tingling in the lower back, buttocks, or legs during outbreaks
- Usually comes with sores or blisters in the genital area
5. HIV (Early or Late Stages)
- Some people with acute HIV may experience muscle aches and joint pain, including in the back
- In later stages, weakened immunity can lead to other infections or conditions causing back pain
Other STD-Related Causes of Back Pain
✔️ Epididymitis (in men): Caused by chlamydia or gonorrhea; can lead to groin and lower back pain
✔️ Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Sometimes triggered by sexual activity; may cause pain that spreads to the back or kidneys
When to See a Doctor
You should get checked if: ✔️ You have lower back pain with other STD symptoms (discharge, burning, pain during sex)
✔️ You had unprotected sex recently
✔️ You have a history of STDs or a partner who tested positive
Don’t ignore lower back pain—especially if it comes with reproductive or urinary symptoms.
How It’s Diagnosed
✔️ Medical history and symptom check
✔️ Pelvic exam or prostate exam
✔️ Urine, blood, or swab tests to check for infections
✔️ Imaging tests if PID or organ involvement is suspected
Treatment Options
✔️ Antibiotics for bacterial STDs like chlamydia and gonorrhea
✔️ Antiviral meds for herpes
✔️ Pain relief for inflammation and discomfort
✔️ Partner treatment to prevent reinfection
The sooner you treat it, the better your chances of avoiding complications like chronic pain or infertility.
Prevention Tips
✔️ Use condoms or dental dams during every sexual encounter
✔️ Get regular STD screenings
✔️ Avoid sex when you or your partner have symptoms
✔️ Communicate openly with partners about sexual health
Final Thoughts
Back pain isn’t always just a back issue. Sometimes, it’s your body’s way of alerting you to a deeper infection—possibly an STD.
If you’re experiencing lower back pain along with unusual discharge, pain during sex, or urinary symptoms, don’t wait. Get tested and talk to a doctor.
💙 Take care of your body. Stay informed. And protect your sexual health.
Related Reads
References
- CDC – Chlamydia: cdc.gov/std/chlamydia
- CDC – Gonorrhea: cdc.gov/std/gonorrhea
- CDC – PID: cdc.gov/std/pid
- Mayo Clinic – Herpes: mayoclinic.org
- CDC – HIV Symptoms: cdc.gov/hiv
Leave a Reply