Homepage > Health > Sex > STIs
- What are STIs?
- Who can catch an STI?
- What STIs are there?
- What increases your chances of contracting an STI?
- I think I might have an STI
- Help lines
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.
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.
There are many different infections including:
- Chlamydia
- Cystitis
- Genital Herpes
- Genital Warts
- Gonorrhoea
- Hepatitis
- HIV
- Syphilis
- Thrush
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.
A few drinks at the weekend. You and your mates are out in town, having a laugh - anything could happen. That might be closer to the truth than you think. If you drink to get drunk, drink above recommended daily amount or drink more heavily than you're used to, you can't be sure what the effects or consequences could be. Find out more in our Spin the wheel article.
Many hospitals have special clinics such as Genito-urinary medicine (GUM) clinics. Here you can be tested and treated for an STI. If you think you have an STI then you need to consult your doctor or visit your nearest clinic. You can find your nearest clinic at The Condom Essential Wear website. You can talk to one of our Personal Advisers in confidence. They can give you advice and put you in touch with someone who can help. Call into your local Connexions Centre.
- RU Thinking (free confidential advice): 0800 28 29 30
- Connexions Direct: 080 800 13 2 19 Text: 07766 4 13 2 19 Textphone: 08000 968 336
S T I Infections
This BUPA site has a list of STIS and information about treating infections.
Ask TheSite
Ask questions about your sexual health.
R U Thinking
Gives phone numbers in your area, advice about relationships and facts about sex.
Teens first for health
This site offers video diaries, in-depth features and condition fact sheets on a wide range of health issues. You can also email your health questions to thier expert.
Your Comments
Post a Comment
Thank you for posting a comment.
Your message will be moderated before going live on the site.
Please enter a message.
Why not rate this article? Give this article your rating from (1) not very helpful to (5) very helpful