Sexual Health

This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice.

Sexually Transmitted Infections

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are diseases that are passed from one person to another through sexual contact. Some of the common STIs you may have heard of include chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, syphilis, and HIV.

Sexually transmitted infections are passed from person to person during sexual activity (e.g. vaginal, oral and anal sex, mutual masturbation) or bodily fluids. You or your partner can be a carrier of a sexually transmitted infections without displaying symptoms, so even if you are in a monogamous relationship, it’s important to get tested. If left untreated, infections can lead to diseases that cause damage in the body.

Prevention

Using a condom during sex can reduce the risk of transmitting or contracting certain STIs, but using a condom does not eliminate the risk entirely. Vaccinations exist for some STIs, but not all. The only sure way to avoid infection is to refrain from engaging in sexual activity. This means not having any vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It’s okay to say “no” if you do not want to have sex.

Treatment

Some STIs can be treated and even cured with medications. Early detection is essential for effective treatment. Other STIs cannot be cured, but symptoms can be managed. Being tested for STIs is easy, and your health and safety is worth it.

If you think you may have an STI or have never been tested, call us to get a referral for testing. Facing the possibility of a sexually transmitted infection is scary, but you don’t have to go through it alone.