Through unprotected sex with the exchange of bodily fluids.

Generally STIs can be symptomless so the only way to know for sure is through a test. Symptoms can include but may not, burning sensation whilst peeing, pain during or after sex, swollen or painful testicles, unusual or strange smelling discharge from penis or vagina, rashes, sores, blisters or growths.

Self-taken urine sample or self-taken vaginal swab for chlamydia and gonorrhoea which takes 10 working days for results to come back or finger prick test for HIV and Syphilis test with instant result, followed by a full blood screening at Conifer if reactive. There are window periods with both tests, Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea tests show up anything which has been caught over two weeks ago, HIV and syphilis tests show up anything which has been caught over six weeks ago. You can book a test online or catch the community and development workers in any of their city based outreach.

Generally symptomless, bacterial based infection which is curable with a course of medication.

Bacterial based infection which is curable with a course of medication

Viral infection which is not curable but treatable with daily medication.

Viral infection which is not curable but outbreaks can be treated and managed.

Viral infection which is not curable but outbreaks can be treated and managed.

Parasitic infection which can be cured with a course of medication.

Parasitic infection which can be cured with a course of medication.

Viral infection which can be cured with a course of medication.

The only way to prevent the spread of STIs is through the use of barrier methods, such as condoms, dental dams and femidoms. It is important to stay up to date with STI testing and get checked every time you have a new sexual partner.