Venereologist
A venereologist, or dermatovenereologist, is a doctor who specialises in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), which were previously often referred to as venereal diseases or STDs. In Latvia, venereology is usually combined with dermatology, which is why these services are often provided by a dermatovenereologist.
What does a venereologist do?
A venereologist helps patients with complaints related to the skin and mucous membranes of the genital area, discharge, pain, itching, sores, warts, burning during urination, as well as in cases where a preventive STI check-up is needed after a risk contact or before starting a new relationship.
At “Veselības centrs 4”, a visit to a venereologist takes place confidentially. The doctor assesses symptoms and risk factors, prescribes the necessary tests and, if an infection is confirmed, prepares a treatment and follow-up plan.
Conditions most commonly diagnosed and treated by a venereologist
A venereologist diagnoses and treats various sexually transmitted infections, and also helps assess symptoms that may be related to inflammation of the genital skin, mucous membranes or urinary tract.
The most common infections and conditions for which patients consult a venereologist are:
STI screening after a risk contact: a set of tests for preventive screening, even if there are no symptoms.
Unclear discharge, burning, itching or pain in the genital area: identifying the cause of the symptoms and providing treatment.
HPV, or human papillomavirus: genital warts, changes in the mucous membranes, risk assessment and prevention recommendations.
Genital herpes, or herpes genitalis: diagnosis of rashes, sores and recurrent episodes, treatment and a prevention plan.
Chlamydia: it can often occur without pronounced symptoms, so testing is important after a risk contact or a change of partner.
Ureaplasma and mycoplasma: infections that may be associated with symptoms of urinary and genital tract inflammation; treatment is required after a doctor’s assessment.
Assessment of HIV infection risk and testing: confidential consultation, pre-test and post-test explanation, and further steps according to the result.
Gonorrhoea: testing, treatment, follow-up examinations and recommendations on informing and testing the partner.
Syphilis: diagnostics, including serological tests, treatment and follow-up according to medical guidelines.
When should you visit a venereologist?
A visit to a venereologist is recommended not only when symptoms are present, but also preventively, especially after unsafe sexual contact, a change of partner or in situations where there is uncertainty about a partner’s STI status.
It is recommended to consult a venereologist if:
there has been unsafe sexual contact with an untested partner;
there has been unplanned sexual contact or a condom has broken;
a partner has been diagnosed with an STI;
there is itching, burning, pain or discomfort in the genital area;
rashes, sores, blisters, warts or skin changes have appeared in the genital, anal or oral area;
there is unusual discharge from the urethra or vagina;
there is pain or burning during urination;
previous test results have raised questions or require explanation;
a second opinion is needed on STI test results;
you are planning a pregnancy or a new relationship;
you want to have a regular STI check-up for sexual health prevention;
a follow-up check is required after treatment;
there are recurrent gynaecological or urological complaints with no clear cause.
Many STIs can occur without symptoms, so testing is also recommended when a person feels well but there has been a risk of infection.
How does a visit to a venereologist at “Veselības centrs 4” take place?
A visit to a venereologist takes place confidentially and discreetly. During the consultation, the doctor clarifies the complaints, the onset of symptoms, possible risk factors, previously performed tests and previous treatment. If necessary, an examination is carried out and tests are prescribed.
STI diagnostics may require:
blood tests;
urine tests;
swabs or samples from the genital area, anal area, throat or another site;
visual assessment of skin and mucous membrane changes;
additional tests as prescribed by the doctor.
The choice of tests depends on the symptoms, type of contact, possible time of infection and the patient’s health condition. If an infection is confirmed, the doctor explains the result, prescribes treatment and provides recommendations on limiting sexual contact during treatment, informing the partner and follow-up testing.
Why choose a venereologist at “Veselības centrs 4”?
Venereologists, or dermatovenereologists, at “Veselības centrs 4” provide professional, discreet and patient-friendly sexual health care — from the initial consultation and tests to the treatment plan and follow-up.
Advantages of “Veselības centrs 4”:
confidential visit: the patient’s health information is protected and is not disclosed without the patient’s consent, except in cases specified by law;
direct access: a private visit to a venereologist can be booked without a referral from a family doctor;
experienced dermatovenereologists: diagnosis and treatment of STIs and changes in the skin and mucous membranes of the genital area;
testing options: convenient examination and receipt of results;
discreet appointment booking: the possibility to book a visit online or by phone;
comprehensive approach: if necessary, cooperation with a gynaecologist, urologist, infectious disease specialist or another specialist is possible;
prevention consultations: safer sex, regular check-ups, HPV vaccination and questions related to informing the partner.
Myths about venereologists and STIs
Myth: You only need to see a venereologist if you have pronounced symptoms.
In fact: many sexually transmitted infections can occur without symptoms or with very mild signs. A person may feel healthy but still transmit the infection to a partner. That is why testing is recommended after a risk contact, a change of partner or if a partner has been diagnosed with an STI.
Myth: If a condom was used, there is no STI risk.
In fact: a condom significantly reduces the risk of STIs, but it does not provide complete protection against all infections. Some infections, such as HPV or herpes, can also be transmitted through skin or mucous membrane contact in areas not covered by a condom.
Myth: STIs can always be detected immediately the day after contact.
In fact: each infection has its own period when it becomes detectable in tests. A test performed too early may be negative even if infection has occurred. That is why a venereologist helps choose the appropriate time for testing and, if necessary, recommends repeat testing.
Myth: STI treatment is needed only for the patient who has symptoms.
In fact: if an infection is confirmed, the partner often also needs to be tested and, if necessary, treated. Otherwise, reinfection and further transmission of the infection may occur.
Myth: A visit to a venereologist is not confidential.
In fact: a doctor’s visit is confidential. Medical information is not disclosed to an employer, family or other persons without the patient’s consent, except in cases required by law.
