Signs, symptoms and screening for sexually transmitted infections!
STIs & Testing
There are many different types of STIs and they can affect people differently. Some STIs have symptoms including discomfort and irritation or can make it painful going to the toilet or having sex. Other STIs may have long-term effects on your health, including your ability to have children (infertility) and some STIs have no symptoms at all. Chlamydia affects 1 in 10 students, though is difficult to spot as there are no symptoms, and if left untreated can cause infertility.
If used correctly condoms can prevent STIs from being passed from an infected person to their sexual partner. Condoms are the only method of contraception that also protect from STIs.
Most STIs are very easily treated, though it is important to start treatment as soon as possible.
There are a few simple steps you can take to protect yourself from STIs:
- Always use a condom when you have sex
- If you do have unprotected sex, get tested afterwards to make sure that you haven't caught anything. STI testing is very quick, easy and painless
- Having a regular sexual-health check-up, especially if you have changed partners, is recommended.
You can pick up a DIY chlamydia and gonorrhoea testing kit from your halls of residence reception today! Kits are be available from the following locations -
- The HUBS - Officers' Office & The Hideout toilet area
- Bramall Court
- Charlotte Court
- Anvil
- Central Quay
- Forge
- Leadmill Point
You can also order a free gonorrhoea and chlamydia testing kit through the post, just be completing this quick online form - free testing kits
The NHS Choices website has a huge amount of information about types of STIs, contraception and general advice and discussion about sexual health.