What are sexually transmitted infections?

Anyone having sex can get a sexually transmitted infection (STI) from an infected partner, if they do not use any protection (e.g. condoms).There are at least 25 different STIs which are all spread during sex, this can mean through oral sex or anal sex.
If left untreated, STIs can cause infertility and permanent damage to your health, therefore early diagnosis and treatment is very important. If you are worried about having an STI it would be wise to visit your doctor or local GUM clinic. Everybody can catch an STI because some infections can lie dormant in the body and may not cause symptoms.
GUM Clinics treat all information with total confidentiality and they will not even tell your doctor you have been there, unless you ask them to. To find out where your nearest local GUM Clinic is check the list of GUM Clinics on this site or visit the following website: http://www.ruthinking.co.uk/default.aspx

What can I do to reduce my risk of sexually transmitted infections?

To avoid all STIs you should find out as much as possible about the person you are working with and use condoms where possible. You should always check the certificates of the person you are having sex with. Trust is a huge part of this – if you have any concerns about the validity of the certificates or have any concerns about the sexual health of the person you are having sex with you should cancel your participation in the work. Remember, you can’t always tell if you or your partner has a sexual infection as neither of you might have any symptoms.

What can I do if I get a sexually transmitted infection?

If spotted early enough, most STIs can be easily treated. Drugs can often control those that can’t be treated, like HIV, but these drugs are not a cure. You can get a vaccination to protect against hepatitis A and B, if you believe you could be at risk of catching the infection.

Condoms

When using condoms, always use them correctly; never use any oils or Vaseline™ with male condoms, as it will damage them. Always check the expiry date.
When opening a condom, make sure that the foil, fingernails or jewellery do not damage the fine rubber. Never re-use a condom and always change condoms regularly during a session. Condoms should always be changed between partners if in a group sex environment.