Prevention of STIs

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections passed from one person to another through intimate physical contact. This includes vaginal, anal and oral sex.

Preventing STIs protects an individual and their sexual partners from possible health complications.

If untreated, some STIs can lead to serious and in some cases life threatening health problems. This can include brain damage or organ failure or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, which can affect fertility. Others can increase the risk of certain cancers.

Some STIs can be passed from a pregnant person to their baby during pregnancy or birth, causing serious health problems for a new born baby.

By preventing STIs a person is protecting their partner/partners from becoming infected.

All STIs can be treated and most can be cured completely.

Prevalence of STIs:

STIs are quite common, particularly among young people and GBMSM (gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men). According to Public Health Scotland, chlamydia remains the most frequently diagnosed STI in Scotland, followed by gonorrhoea.

The importance of testing:

Some STIs don't cause any noticeable symptoms, especially in the early stages. This means that someone could be infected without even realising it. Regular testing is important or sexually active adults.

Getting tested for STIs:

Testing for STIs is a quick and confidential. The following types of tests are used to detect STIs.

● Urine tests: used for chlamydia and gonorrhoea.

● Swabs: Samples of cells are collected for testing.

● Blood tests: Used for some STIs including HIV and syphilis.

Accessing a sexual health clinic:

Sandyford Sexual Health Services: Sandford Sexual Health Services Website