STI Prevention
If he slips between your thighs, make sure he's condomized
What are they?
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections that are spread by sexual contact. While the incidence of reported STIs has actually declined in the last decade, the number of these infections in children and teenagers is still very high. About 25% of teenagers will have an STI before they finish high school.
Tell your doctor
You need to tell the doctor because having sex can affect your health in ways you might not see or feel. For example, some people with STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) have no idea that they have an infection because there are no signs. But if a person isn't treated, it could lead to serious health problems like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can cause infertility (the inability to have a baby).
Symptoms
The STIs listed here are among the most common or harmful to women.
- Bacterial vaginosis
- Chlamydia
- Genital herpes
- Gonorrhea
- Hepatitis B
- HIV/AIDS
- Human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Pubic lice (sometimes called "crabs")
- Syphilis
- Trichomoniasis (sometimes called "trich")
"I think I might have an STI"
- Get checked out. Don't just hope the STI will go away because it won't
- Most health departments have special STI clinics. Private doctors also treat STI's. If you don't know where to get help call your local family planning clinic for information. You always have the option for your tests it to be kept private.
- Even if you feel embarrassed you must get treatment for an STI, even if it is a hard thing for you to do. This is the only way you will get better.
- Most STIs can be treated with antibiotics. Do exactly what your doctor tells you and be sure to use all of your medicine.
- You also must tell your sexual partner. If they aren't treated, they can spread the STI. They might even give it to you again.
Where to go
Thinking you have an STI can be scary and confronting. There are sites online to get help, buts its always better to see someone in real life.
Canberra Sexual Health Centre is a free service and Canberra's leading clinic for the testing and treatment of STIs.
As a specialist clinic they aim to provide confidential, high quality professional and non-judgemental care, giving you access to the latest information, advice and treatments.
Website: http://health.act.gov.au/c/health?a=sp&did=10078309
Location: Building 5 (North Wing) Canberra Hospital, Garran ACT
Phone: (02) 6244 2184
Facebook: facebook.com/ACTHealth
Twitter: @ACTHealth