What are STIs?
STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections) are infections passed from one person to another through sexual contact. This includes vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Some can also be passed through skin-to-skin contact or sharing sex toys.
Common Types of STIs:
- Chlamydia – Often has no symptoms; can cause infertility if untreated.
- Gonorrhoea – May cause discharge and pain when peeing; can lead to complications if untreated.
- Genital Herpes – Causes painful blisters or sores; it’s a viral infection that can return.
- Genital Warts (HPV) – Small lumps or growths around the genitals or anus.
- Syphilis – Starts with a painless sore, can progress to serious complications if untreated.
- HIV – A virus that weakens the immune system; managed with lifelong treatment.
- Trichomoniasis – Caused by a parasite; may cause discharge and discomfort.
- Hepatitis B/C – Viral infections that can affect the liver.
What are the symptoms?
Many STIs have no symptoms, especially in the early stages. When symptoms do occur, they might include:
- Unusual vaginal or penile discharge
- Pain or burning when peeing
- Itching, irritation, or rash in the genital area
- Blisters, sores, or lumps around genitals or anus
- Pain during sex
- Bleeding between periods or after sex
How are STIs diagnosed?
- Urine tests
- Swabs from the genitals, throat, or anus
- Blood tests (especially for HIV and syphilis)
- Physical examination by a healthcare professional
Testing is usually quick and confidential.
How are STIs treated?
- Bacterial STIs (like chlamydia and gonorrhoea): treated with antibiotics
- Viral STIs (like herpes, HIV): no cure, but symptoms can be managed with medication
- HPV and genital warts: may be treated with creams or minor procedures
- Syphilis: treated with antibiotic injections
It’s important to complete the full course of treatment and avoid sex until your healthcare provider says it’s safe.
How can I prevent STIs?
- Use condoms every time you have sex (vaginal, anal, or oral)
- Get regular STI checks, especially if you have new or multiple partners
- Avoid sharing sex toys, or use condoms on them and clean thoroughly
- Get vaccinated (e.g., HPV vaccine, hepatitis B vaccine)
What if I have an STI?
- Don’t panic—most STIs are treatable or manageable
- Avoid sex until you’ve finished treatment and been cleared by a doctor
- Tell recent sexual partners so they can also get tested and treated
- Return for follow-up testing if advised
Where can I get tested or treated?
You can get confidential STI testing and treatment at:
- at WWWW
- Sexual health or GUM (genitourinary medicine) clinics
- Your GP surgery
- Some pharmacies
- Community clinics or online services (in some areas)