Sexually transmitted Infections (STIs)
What is an STI and how can you get one?
An STI is an infection that is transmitted through sexual contact. You can get an STI by sexual intercourse but also through oral sex, anal sex or contact with bodily fluids such as sperm, saliva, blood, and vaginal discharge. Very few STIs can be transmitted through skin contact.
How do you prevent getting an STI?
The best way to protect yourself from getting an STI is using condoms. Even if you are in a monogamous relationship only having sex with one person who you trust, or are a virgin, don't just assume you are safe. It's best to get tested regularly so you can be sure you are safe - remember, STI's do not always present themselves with symptoms; you can be infected and not experience any symptoms at all. Getting tested is free, and although it can be a little embarrassing and uncomfortable, it's worth it for the peace of mind.
I think I might have an STI, what should I do?
Go and get checked out ASAP. STIs do not go away by themselves, and the sooner you get tested, the easier it'll be to treat, Leave it too long and you run the risk of getting into serious health problems. In the worst case scenario, STIs can lead to infertility.
Where do I get tested?
Some GP Clinics will do STI tests but not all. The best thing to do is to make an appointment at the GUM Clinic at your local hospital. Some clinics offer drop in sessions where you can just turn up, but be warned - the wait can be long! To find your nearest GUM clinic, either call the Department of Health's sexual health helpline on
0800 567123 or use the
Family Planning Clinic Finder
What happens during an STI test?
Check out the
What to expect at the Gum Clinic page on the wiki for more information about the different types of tests that you will have
I'm embarrassed/scared. Will it hurt?
It's understandable that you might be embarrassed or scared, but the nurses and doctors at the clinic really have seen it all before, and they'll be very sensitive and understanding. The tests do not hurt, but can feel a bit uncomfortable, but if you think of it as 2 minutes' discomfort for peace of mind that you are safe and healthy, it's not so bad!
What are the most common STIs and what are their symptoms?
Take a look at the
Sexually Transmitted Diseases Information wiki page for the lowdown on the most common STIs, their causes, symptoms and treatment.
Where can I find out more?
For more information about STIs and getting checked out, check out the following places:
BBC Sexual Health
Family Planning Association Information
Information on on Smear tests, HPV vaccines and Cervical Cancer - By Jamie
There seem to be lots of smear and cervical cancer related threads cropping up of late, so i thought I'd make a post on it to consolidate all the questions.
OK, first the basics.
The smear involves putting a speculum into the vagina to open it up so that the doctor/nurse specialist can see the cervix (the entrance to the womb situated at the top of the vagina). A swab then takes a sample of cells off of the cervix which end up ina lab smeared (hence the name) onto a slide. The scientist then looks at cells on the slide, trying to find some abnormal cells.
The purpose of smears is to identify cells that could in the future become cervical cancer. There are several steps that occur before cervical cancer, and at each of these steps the cells look different to normal. By spotting these abnormal cells and treating the woman (or just keeping a close eye) then you can prevent most cases of cancer ever happening. Abnormal cells don't mean you WILL develop cancer though - very few actually do. But it just makes it more likely.
Key questions that keep being asked.
Will a smear test hurt?
It can be painful, or it can be simply uncomfortable. THe main thing most people are worried about is having their bits so exposed. You will probably be taken into a little changing cubicle or left to undress from the waist down, and given a towel to wrap around you. only at the point just before the smear will you be exposed.
The more tense you are the more painful it is. its incredibly hard to force yourself to relax though, so just try to distract yourself as best you can, and follow any advice they give you.
I'm blah years old, do i need a smear?
The advice in the UK is that you need one at either 23 or 25 years old, then every 3-5 years after that. Different areas have different rules - some like in South london say 23 years old, some others say 25 years old. THe reason they don't bother with women younger than this is because they get so many women testing positive beyond this age but who are not at risk of cervical cancer.
I'm a virgin, do i need a smear?
No. Virgins don't need one. Even if you get a letter through the post, just call them up and say you are a virgin so don't need the appointment. Virgins do not get cervical cancer.
Even if you have only had sex with condoms though you will need a smear when called up. Most people are rubbish with condoms, and there is a slight transmission risk anyway.
Can I be vaccinated against cervical cancer?
THere are two vaccines available. One protects against HPV16 and 18 - responsible for over 70% of cervical cancer in WHITE people (much less in blakc and asian people). One protects against them plus two other sorts which cause over 90% of genital and anal warts. If you have had unprotected sex before theres not really much point in getting the first vaccine. That said, it won't do any harm. The latter vaccine however will help protect against warts - especially in at risk groups like gay men. Remember though there are lots and lots of HPV viruses NOT protected by the vaccines. You will still need smears when called up, and will still need to practice safe sex.
If a girl's had sex with ANYONE is it not worth getting the vaccine? Is HPV 16/18 that prevalent?
see this is the tricky thing. HPV is THAT prevelant, but there haven't been any decent studies showingg the prevelance of HPV16 and 18 in the UK. we've shown that HPV16 and 18 are responsible for over 60% of uk cervical cancer, but they might only actually be present in 5% of the population.
Should women be rushing out for a vaccination?
No. IS it worth going and getting vaccinated? the jury is out. But like i said, it won't HARM you, so if you haven't got much experience then sure, go get vaccinated. but you will still have to have smears like everyone else.
Its a tricky one for GPs because the government/NICE haven't given any advice yet as to when precisely they should and shouldn't be given.
so some gps will be chucking them about willy nilly, and others will be refusing just about everyone.
and then theres the PCTs who will refuse any treatment costs which aren't going to show up immediately with benefits on some sort of financial spreadsheet.
For questions on everything from periods and STIs to the pill and the coil. If you are having a sexual health problem ask your question here. This forum is not for discussing your favourite sex position or what vibrator you should buy. Sex tips are not allowed
STIs and Smear tests - information and questions
), usually with a towel or a plastic sheet over you. 
