STIs
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are infections that can be passed on during sexual intercourse or sexual contact. Most STIs are easily treated and curable.
There are many types of STIs that can show different symptoms for each person, and for some, show no symptoms at all. So, if you are sexually active, a regular sexual health check-up is recommended.
The Sexual Health Bexley team provides free and confidential advice on STIs, with symptom and treatment information.
STI stands for Sexually Transmitted Infection, whereas STD stands for Sexually Transmitted Disease. Some people use them interchangeably, however there is one main difference: STIs are infections that can cause STDs.
Yes. Not all STIs are transmitted via sexual intercourse, penis-in-vagina, or penetrative sex. Some STIs can be caught via sexual contact (skin to skin or mutual masturbation), oral, and anal sex or sharing sex toys. Same-sex couples can also pass STIs onto each other.
Most STIs are asymptomatic, meaning you will not show symptoms. The only way to know for certain is if you take an STI test.
Testing kits are inclusive to people of all sexes and gender identities, allowing you to choose the option that’s right for you. Online order forms ask for your gender identity (outward expression) and your sex (biological sex assigned at birth). If these do not align, you can still test, just select a kit that fits your needs.
If you receive a kit from our outreach team or collect one from a GP, pharmacy or other site they come with the components for both male and female genitals. All you need to do is take the test(s) you require and discard the ones you don’t.
If your genitals do not fit the definition of general cisgender male or female genitalia, please contact your local sexual health clinic for further advice and support.
STIs require treatment prescribed by a doctor, nurse or pharmacist. Some STIs, like chlamydia can be treated easily with a course of antibiotics. These antibiotics can sometimes be posted to you depending on the service you use to test.
Other infections require in-person appointments as you may need further testing, or a type of treatment that cannot be taken at home (for example an injection for gonorrhoea).
Partner notification can be daunting; however, it is strongly recommended so they can test too and get the treatment they may need. The best thing to do is be honest, open and direct.
Sexual health clinics and some online testing platforms offer partner notification services that inform your sexual partner(s) for you anonymously. Your name will not be given, and the notification is kept brief, stating they may have been exposed to an STI, suggest they take an STI test and information on how to do so.
Not unless you tell them.
You can’t, unless they tell you, or share their results.
STI testing is generally painless, however some people may find it uncomfortable. The finger-prick test is the one that most people are worried about as they may find it difficult to take their own blood sample, which is understandable. All test kits come with detailed instructions and tips to correctly take a viable sample.
If you prefer, you can book an appointment at a sexual health clinic for testing.
Yes, for two reasons:
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Barrier methods (condoms, dams, and diaphragms) are the only forms of contraception that protect against both STIs and unplanned pregnancy.
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No form of contraception is 100% effective. They significantly reduce your risk, but there is always a very small chance of failure.