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What are STIs?
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are caused by viruses or bacteria which are passed on during sex. If you are having sex or thinking about having sex, it is important that you think about using contraception in order to prevent an unwanted pregnancy or to avoid contracting an STI.
Who can catch an STI?
Anyone who has sex can catch an STI. Infections can spread easily because some STIs have few or no symptoms, and often STIs are passed to sexual partners without you knowing that you have an infection yourself.
What STIs are there?
There are many different infections including:
- Chlamydia
- Crabs/Pubic lice
- Genital Warts
- Gonorrhoea
- Hepatitis
- Herpes
- HIV
- Syphilis
- Vaginitis
What increases your chance of contracting an STI?
- Unprotected sex – condoms are the only form of contraception that protects you from both unwanted pregnancies and STIs. You can receive free condoms using the C-Card scheme.
- Lots of sexual partners – if you have sexual contact, not just intercourse, but any form of sexual activity with many different partners, then you are at greater risk.
I think I might have an STI
If you think you have an STI then you should consult your doctor or visit your nearest sexual health clinic.
Help lines
- Brook - 0808 802 1234
- Family Planning Association (FPA) – 0845 122 8690 Mon-Fri 9am-6pm
Useful websites
Sex: Worth talking about
Information on the different types of contraception and how to get tested for STIs.
Brook
Free and confidential sexual health advice for under 25s.
Essex C-Card website
Free condom service for young people under 20 in Essex.
Family Planning Association
The UK's leading sexual health charity.
Online tools
Hepatitis C check
Hepatitis C can lie undetected for years. Take this test to see if you may be at risk of Hepatitis C.
Sexual health self-assessment
Is your sex life putting your health at risk? Take the safe sex test and find out more.
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