This section talks about infections that can be passed
on through sexual behaviour.
Whether you practise
these behaviours or not, it is still important to know how these infections are
passed on, so that you can protect yourself and maybe inform other people in
your community.
Infections are germs that enter the body and multiply
and damage cells.
STI stands for sexually-transmissible infections. These infections are passed from one person to
another during sexual intercourse, oral sex and sometimes through contact with
genitals.
They are caused by bacteria, viruses and other tiny
organisms which may be present in the blood, semen, body fluids or the pubic
area of an infected person.
Some
STI can cause serious health problems or make it difficult for men and women to
have children. STI can remain in the body for a very long time.
Here is some information on STIs and how they are
passed on. You should also read about how to protect yourself from
getting an STI.
different types of STI
STI include
chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, genital herpes, genital warts, pubic lice and
many others. Most of these are passed on through skin contact with sores,
lesions or infected skin.
how do I know if I have an STI?
Not all STI
have the same symptoms and sometimes there are no symptoms.
You should
see your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:
- blisters,
lumps, sores or warts around your genital area
- irritation,
itchiness or a rash around the genital area
- pain,
discomfort or unusual discharge from the penis, vagina or rectum
- pain
in the lower belly or around the testicles (for men)
- abnormal
pain or bleeding after sex (for women)
how are STI treated?
Most STI
can be cleared from the body with simple treatment such as injections,
antibiotics or creams. Some STI are lifelong infections but they can still be
relieved by the right treatment.
more information
How can women protect themselves?
How can men protect themselves?
Where can I get tested?
Other useful websites