Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)are mainly passed from one person to another (that is transmitted) during sex. There are at least 25 different sexually transmitted illnesses with a range of different symptoms. These infections may be spread through vaginal, anal and oral sex.
Most sexually transmitted infections will only affect you if you have sexual contact with someone who has an STI. However there are some infections, for example scabies, which are referred to as STIs because they are most commonly transmitted sexually, but which can also be passed on in other ways.
STI versus STD
Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) is another name for Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD). The name STI is sometimes preferred because there are a few STDs, such as chlamydia, that can infect a person without causing any actual disease (i.e. unpleasant symptoms). Someone without symptoms may not think of themselves as having a disease, but they may still have an infection that needs treating.
STI Symptoms
STI symptoms vary, but the most common are soreness, unusual lumps or sores, itching, pain when urinating, and/or an unusual discharge from the genitals.
The following common symptoms may occur in infected men and women.
- A drip or unusual discharge from the sex organ
- Sores, bumps or blisters on or near the sex organs anus or mouth
- Burning pain when you urinate (pee) or have a bowel movement
- A swelling or redness in your throat
- Swelling in your groin, the area around your sex organs.
In addition women may present with the following symptoms:
- Pain in the area between your belly bottom and sex organs
- Burning or itching around your vagina
- Vaginal bleeding between periods
- Pain deep inside the vagina when you have sex
If you think you have an STI, please visit a health care provider. Most health centres clinics private doctors and hospitals treat STIs.
Remember to follow your health care provider’s instructions carefully and do not share or take medication from other persons.
