One of the most frightening issues facing any man involved in a physical relationship is the possibility of contracting a socially transmitted infection. Even when men take good care of their manhood health by using latex barriers and choosing sensual partners carefully, the threat of socially transmitted infections can loom large. Most of these announce themselves with pain, itching, redness, soreness, small blisters, discharge, and many other symptoms that will almost immediately send any smart man straight to the doctor’s office. Fortunately, most of these infections are fully treatable.

There are some, however, that stay entirely silent. These socially transmitted infections don’t lead to a manhood rash. They don’t lead to an itchy manhood. There is no discharge or redness. There are no bumps. In fact, they lead to nothing at all that might indicate they are there, lurking in the reproductive system.

Seeking out the silent socially transmitted infections

We talk a great deal about good manhood care and how important it is to maintain a healthy member. One very important aspect of that good care is to get tested for socially transmitted infections on a regular basis. Here are four good reasons why.

1. Trichomoniasis. This is the third most common socially transmitted infection in the United States, and only about 30 percent of those infected know they have it. ‘Trich’ is caused by a tiny parasite that can be passed quite easily between partners. It can hang around for years with no symptoms at all. Even more troubling, it can actually increase the chances of contracting other socially transmitted infections. The few who do have symptoms usually complain of itchy manhood, burning, and discharge.

2. The herpes virus. One in six people have the herpes virus, and experts believe that 80 percent of those who have it aren’t aware of their socially transmitted infection status. In most cases the symptoms do show up but are mild enough to be confused with ingrown hairs, jock itch, or even acne. The scariest part is that the herpes virus can be spread through any intimate skin-to-skin contact, even if there are no sores or blisters to hint that the herpes virus might be present.

3. HPV. The human papillomavirus is by far the most common socially transmitted infection. In fact, most people wind up with HPV at some point during their lives. There are rarely any symptoms for the over 40 types of HPV that are typically transmitted. The bad news is that HPV can lead to deeper problems, such as cervical cancer. The good news is that 90 percent of all HPV cases are cleared by the immune system within two years.

4. Zika. Though the Zika virus is not technically a socially transmitted infection, recent studies have found alarming evidence that it can be transmitted through sensual activity for several months after the symptoms have disappeared. To make matters worse, most who contract Zika have no symptoms at all. The virus might not lead to any problems for most, but it can be absolutely devastating for pregnant women or those who want to become pregnant. There isn’t really a test for Zika just yet, so in the meantime, make sure to use latex barriers when having relations with a woman who might become pregnant, and abstain altogether when a woman is already expecting.

Proper manhood care includes socially transmitted infection testing

Maintaining the best manhood health also means maintaining the best overall health. That’s why regular socially transmitted infection testing is a good idea. The tests can help ensure that any socially transmitted infections are caught quickly and treated appropriately.

Besides taking good care of overall health, a smart man looks to home treatments that are specifically designed for the manhood. For instance, a good manhood health crème (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which has been clinically proven safe and mild for skin) can go a long way toward ensuring healthy male organ skin. A moisturizing cream that contains a strong emollient, such as Shea butter, and plenty of appropriate vitamins and minerals can help lock in moisture and provide a significant health boost. As an added bonus, a man with a very healthy manhood might notice an issue long before someone who isn’t as conscientious, and thus might go to the doctor sooner if they suspect a socially transmitted infection.

Visit http://www.menshealthfirst.com for additional information on most common manhood health issues, tips on improving manhood sensitivity and what to do to maintain a healthy manhood. John Dugan is a professional writer who specializes in men's health issues and is an ongoing contributing writer to numerous websites.