CLINIC

STI Detection and Prevention

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections you can get by having sex with someone who has an infection. These infections are usually passed by having vaginal intercourse, but they can also be passed through anal sex, oral sex or skin-to-skin contact. STIs can be caused by viruses or bacteria. STIs caused by viruses include hepatitis B, herpes, HIV and the human papilloma virus (HPV). STIs caused by bacteria include chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis.

Am I at risk for having an STI?

If you've ever had sex, you may be at risk for having an STI. Your risk is higher if you have had many sex partners, have had sex with someone who has had many partners or have had sex without using condoms. Some common symptoms of STIs are listed in the box below.

Itching around the vagina and/or discharge from the vagina for women Discharge from the penis for men Pain during sex or when urinating Pain in the pelvic area Sore throats in people who have oral sex Pain in or around the anus for people who have anal sex Chancre sores (painless red sores) on the genital area, anus, tongue and/or throat A scaly rash on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet Dark urine, loose, light-colored stools, and yellow eyes and skin Small blisters that turn into scabs on the genital area Swollen glands, fever and body aches Unusual infections, unexplained fatigue, night sweats and weight loss Soft, flesh-colored warts around the genital area

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