Sexually transmitted infections
Sexual transmitted infections (STIs) are spread from person to person during sex (vaginal, oral, or anal) or close contact with someone who is infected. Anyone who has unprotected sex can get an STI.
Many STIs don’t have symptoms. It is important to protect yourself and your partner(s) by getting tested regularly.
Most STIs are easy to treat. If left untreated some STIs can cause serious illness or permanent damage. Early detection can help avoid complications and stop the spread to others.
Blood-borne infections
Blood-borne infections (BBIs) are spread from person to person by coming in contact with the blood of someone who is infected.
People who are at an increased risk for BBIs include:
- Those who do not use barrier protection during sex.
- Those who share pipes, needles, and other equipment for drug use.
- Those who do not use lubrication during penetrative sex.
Most BBIs are treatable. If left untreated some BBIs can cause serious illness, permanent damage, or death. Early detection through regular testing is important.
How do I get tested?
KFL&A Public Health offers STBBI testing at our Sexual Health Clinic. You can also be tested for STIs through your healthcare provider.
How often should I get tested?
You should get tested if:
- You have a new sexual partner.
- You have any STI symptoms.
- Your partner has recently tested positive for an STI.
- You are pregnant.
You should get tested every three months if you have anonymous, causal, or unprotected sex.
How can I protect myself?
Reduce your risk of getting an STI
- Talk about STIs and safe sex practices with every partner.
- Use condoms or dental dams.
- Get tested regularly. Routine and baseline testing is important.
- Check that you are up-to-date with vaccinations that protect against hepatitis and HPV.
Common sexual transmitted and blood-borne infections
Common STBBIs, symptoms, and treatment options:
- Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that may not display any signs or symptoms. It can be passed from a person who is infected to others through oral, vaginal, or anal sex.
- Genital herpes is a viral infection that is spread through skin-to-skin contact with an infected area, usually from vaginal or oral sex. You might experience burning or itching and sometimes develop painful blisters.
- Gonorrhea is a bacterial infection that is easily spread through oral, vaginal, or anal sex. You might not have symptoms; however, you could notice a yellowish discharge, pain when peeing, and more.
- Hepatitis B and hepatitis C are blood-borne viruses that are part of a group of liver diseases.
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a blood-borne virus that causes Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).
- HPV is a common virus that can cause genital warts and cancer of the cervix or vagina.
- Syphilis is a bacterial infection that begins with painless sores and, if untreated, can lead to serious health issues. It spreads through anal, vaginal, or oral sex or from mother to baby during pregnancy or birth.
For more information about sexual and reproductive health, including other infections, consent, and sexual reproduction, visit Sex and U or speak with a health care provider.