Sexually transmitted infection

What it is

An infection passed during sex. Most are curable, and the ones that are not are manageable. Left alone they can cause lasting damage, including infertility.

When to seek urgent care

There is fever with pain low in the abdomen, a testicle is swollen and painful, or you are pregnant.

How it shows

Discharge, pain or burning passing urine, sores, itching, or pain low in the abdomen. Many cause no symptoms at all, particularly in women, which is why testing matters even when nothing is wrong.

What to do

Be seen and tested. Partners need treating at the same time, otherwise the infection comes straight back.

What a check-up involves

STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, herpes and HIV. Symptoms can include discharge, sores, pain when passing urine or unexpected bleeding, but many infections cause none. Symptoms or a photograph cannot identify which infection is present.

Testing may use urine, blood or swabs, depending on the exposure and symptoms. Ask which infections are being tested for and whether a later repeat is needed. A routine urine test does not screen for every STI.

Treatment and relationships

Some STIs are cured with appropriate treatment; others can be managed long term. Follow advice about avoiding sex until treatment is complete and partners have been treated where needed. Do not share medicines. Ask for help telling partners safely and privately.

Condoms reduce risk, although skin contact can still transmit some infections. Ask about relevant vaccines and HIV prevention. Possible HIV exposure needs immediate PEP assessment within 72 hours. After sexual assault, prompt medical care can address injuries, infection prevention, pregnancy risk and support without blaming the survivor.

Sources

1. Sexually transmitted infections · Public sector health information · OGL v3.0
2. HIV and AIDS · Public sector health information · OGL v3.0

Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.