Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs - previously known as STDs or Sexually Transmitted Diseases) are diseases or infections passed on through sexual intercourse. By wearing a condom during intercourse you can help to prevent most sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV.

According to fpa (formerly the Family Planning Association) there were more than half a million diagnoses of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) were made in UK specialist sexual health clinics in 2000 – a third more than in 1995.

What causes sexually transmitted infections?

• Like other infections they can be caused by bacteria, virus, parasites or fungi.
• Bacterial infections include; gonorrhoea, syphilis and chlamydia. Herpes and genital warts are caused by viruses and AIDS comes from the virus HIV.
• Parasites are tiny animals that live inside or on the outside of your body. Lice (crabs) and scabies (the itch) are examples of sexually transmitted infections caused by parasites.
• Thrush is started by a fungus and it can grow in and on the sex organs. Sign of infection include soreness, irritation, warts or lumps around the genitals; discharge of white or clear fluid from the penis or vagina, soreness when urinating. But sometimes you can have an infection without symptoms.

If you have symptoms like those described above, check with your doctor or go straight to an STI or GUM (Genito-urinary medicine) clinic at your local hospital. Even if you don't have symptoms yourself but you slept with someone who does, you should also check at a clinic. STIs can permanently damage your health if you are not treated. But sometimes you can have infections without symptoms. For example, Chlamydia often does not show any symptoms and it is estimated that 10% of all sexually active teenagers have it. A general health check with your GP will help clarify this if you are worried. Detected early, it can be completely cured.

Anyone can go to an STI clinic and you do not need an appointment. At a GUM or STI clinic the staff are experienced in STIs. They will not criticise you or make comments and whatever you say at a clinic will be confidential. However you may be asked to give the name of your partner. The clinic may wish to contact him or her to make sure they are not infected. This can be done anonymously.

(The NYA would like to thank Brook for their assistance in compiling this information.)

Find out more about STI Diagnosis, watch this film: