STIs

• STIs or Sexually Transmitted Infections are diseases that are passed from one person to another through intimate physical contact and sexual activity.

• Common types of STIs include Chlamydia, Genital Herpes, Gonorrhea, and HIV.

• Chlamydia is caused by bacteria and is often symptomless. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems including pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility in females.

• Genital Herpes is caused by a virus and is characterised by blisters or sores on the genital areas. There is no cure, but symptoms can be managed with antiviral medicines.

• Gonorrhea is a bacterial infection, which can cause pain when urinating and a white, yellow or green discharge from the genitals. If untreated, it can lead to more serious health problems.

• HIV is a virus that damages the cells in the immune system, reducing the body’s ability to fight infections and diseases. This can progress to AIDS, which makes it hard for the body to fight off life-threatening infections and diseases.

• STIs can be prevented by using protection during sexual intercourse such as condoms.

• Regular testing for STIs is important, especially for those who engage in unprotected sexual intercourse or have multiple sexual partners.

• Testing can be performed at an STI clinic, at a doctor’s office, and even at home with a test kit, depending on the infection.

• Treatment for STIs greatly varies. Some can be treated easily with antibiotics, while other viral infections (like HIV and Herpes) have no cure, but symptoms can be managed.

• Some STIs can have serious long-term health effects if left untreated, such as infertility, certain cancers, and increased risk of contracting other STIs such as HIV.

• Education about safe sex and regular STI testing is important for prevention and early detection of these infections.