Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI’s)

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI’s) are diseases that can be passed on through body contact during sex. They are caused by viruses, bacteria and parasites. They can also be known as Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD’s) or by their old name, Venereal Diseases (VD).

If you are sexually active then you can be at risk from STI’s. Some STI’s can have symptoms, such as discharge, pain when urinating, swelling and inflammation in and around your vagina and an abnormal smell. If you think you have an STI, you should consult your doctor or clinic.

Many STI’s, such as chlamydia, can cause no obvious symptoms, but can have serious health consequences if you don’t treat them.

If you think you have been at risk of catching an STI, then it is advisable to have a sexual health check-up.

You can reduce the risk from STI’s by having protected sex with condoms and getting yourself and your partner(s) tested.

The most common STI’s are: gonorrhoea, chlamydia, syphilis, trichomonas, human papillomavirus, genital herpes, hepatitis B and C, and HIV. Click here to learn more about these infections.