Due to the taboo that continues to surround topics like sexual health and STI’s, many people find it difficult to discuss or ask any questions regarding them. However, the rate of STI infections is always at an all-time high in the UK whereas sexual health screenings (STI tests) often see a drop. With people lacking in information regarding sexual health and not visiting sexual health clinics for screenings, this raises the risk of infection spreading. This article will answer some of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to STIs.

 Can You Get An STI At Any Age?

Anyone engaging in sexual activity is at risk of acquiring an STI. The most common age group that STI’s usually affect is 15–24-year-olds. This is because young women’s bodies are much more biologically prone to infection. Even those who have not yet had sexual intercourse, but have perhaps kissed someone, are still at risk of developing an STI like herpes.

 Can You Acquire An STI Without Sexual Contact?

Many people are quick to assume that you can only become infected if you are engaging in close, skin-to-skin contact. However, there are in fact other situations that poses the risk of spreading a sexually transmitted infection. Here are a few examples:

·  Blood transfusion

·  Contaminated surgical instrument

·  Contact with the saliva of an infected person

·  Breastfeeding

·  Mother to offspring during pregnancy

What Are The Symptoms?

Different types of infection may have different symptoms. In addition, not everyone will experience the same symptoms or any symptoms at all. Therefore, the best way to identify an infection is to take an STI test which will give a fast, accurate result. However, here are some changes you should keep an eye out for:

·  Fever

·  Pain passing urine

·  Pain during sex

·  Genital warts/sores

·  Unusual discharge (both male and female)

·  Rashes in abdominal/genital region

·  Inflammation of lymph nodes

·  General illness – fatigue, nauseous, aching bones etc

Is There Treatment Available?

Fortunately, there are treatments available for most sexually transmitted infections like herpes, syphilis, and gonorrhoea. You will often be prescribed medication such as antibiotics, antiviral drugs, cream for rashes and itching etc. Infection will usually start to pass after a few days of starting medication, but a full course must be taken to ensure the infection is completely gone.

If you are suffering from diseases such as HPV, HIV, or HCV, there is no treatment to cure the disease but there are some medications that will be offered to help you live a long, fulfilled life.

How To Avoid STI’s?

There are ways to continue to enjoy sex without the constant worry of acquiring infections and diseases. Here is what you can do:

·  Practice safe sex by using condoms

·  Restrict sexual contact to only one person

·  Avoid anal sex

·  Screening before blood transfusions

·  Testing regularly

Conclusion

It is extremely important to have knowledge on the topic of sexual health and STI risks. You can ensure your sexual health is being taken care of by obtaining a sexual health check and STI testing. There is always support and advice available to you via GUM clinics and even your local GP will be able to shed some light on sexual health concerns.