Sexual Health - assessing your risk and STI factsSexually Transmissible Infections (STIs)STIs are infections that are passed from one person to another during sexual contact.
They may also be referred to as STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases) or VD (Venereal Disease).
STIs are caused by microscopic organisms such as bacteria, viruses or parasites which can infect different areas of the body. Viruses:These types of STIs (except some types of Hepatitis) remain in your body for the rest of your life with periodic outbreaks of symptoms.
Bacteria:These types of STIs are caused by microorganisms that survive in a warm, moist environment (vagina, penis, anus or throat) and travel to other warm moist environments. They can be transmitted by unprotected oral, anal or vaginal sex.
ParasitesThese types of STIs are tiny mites that are transmitted by skin to skin contact.
Not all STIs cause symptoms so the only way of detecting them is through a sexual health check-up. If you are having sex with different partners it is a good idea to get a routine sexual health check-up at least every six months. If you are in a new relationship it is advisable for both of you to get a sexual health check-up as you may have STIs from previous sexual partners.
Where to get a sexual health check-up |
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