From the moment we start to become sexually active, we start to put ourselves at risk from sexually transmitted diseases. Indeed, the only way to be 100% safe from STDs and sexually transmitted infections is by abstaining from sex. However, people who are sexually active can help to protect their sexual health by ensuring that they use condoms for all kinds of sexual activity. In addition to this, taking regular STD and STI tests, particularly between different sexual partners, can also help to safeguard your health.

STDs & sexually transmitted infections are infections or diseases that are transmitted via via sexual contact, including vaginal intercourse, oral sex, & anal sex. However, a handful of STDs & sexually transmitted infections can also be transmitted via needles after an infected person has used them, as well as through childbirth or breastfeeding.

There's a wide variety of sexually transmitted diseases that can place us at risk and we want to use this STD and STI guide to tell you a little more about them. We’ll include tips on how you can protect yourself from them, as well as information on obtaining treatment. Please do not use this guide to sexual health as a substitute for visiting your doctor or sexual health centre. If you have got any concerns about any part of your sexual health, make sure you go to one of these places immediately.

Different Types of STD and STI

You can discover more about the vast range of STDs & sexually transmitted infections below, because we've listed lots of handy info about a number of the most widespread.

Warts are an extremely widespread STI. They are caused by the human papilloma virus, which can be passed on during sexual contact. However, not every HPV sufferer goes on to develop warts. Many sufferers find that the virus will clear from the body over time. It's rare for warts to be the cause of any long-term health issues.

Gonorrhoea is a really common sexually transmitted disease, which is due to Neisseria gonorrhoeae virus. In addition to the genitals, the virus also thrives in the rectum, throat & the eyes. Infected women can also pass gonorrhoea to their babies during birth and this can give babies eye infections & eventually cause blindness. Gonorrhoea can usually be well treated with antibiotics, which can be obtained from your doctor.

What to Do

If you think you may have an STD or sexually transmitted infection, there's many sexual health clinics that'll be able to give you tests & offer treatment. To discover where your nearest clinic is, simply contact your nearest health authority who will be happy to assist you.