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In a fluid bond, partners may exchange bodily fluids such as semen, ejaculate, secretions, blood or saliva.  The risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and pregnancy is higher in a fluid bond, because barrier protection (such...

There are many types of birth control to choose from and it is important to find the method that works best for you. Most methods of birth control do not prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Condoms can lower the chances of...

Window periods are based on averages or statistics from studies. Different HIV tests have different window periods. As HIV testing technology improves, window periods may become more specific or even get shorter. HIV tests used in British...

Causes NGU is often caused by a bacterial infection (like chlamydia), but it can also be caused by a virus or protozoa. Bacterial infections can be treated and cured with antibiotics. To find out if you have NGU, you need to be examined by...

The EC pill contains one hormone called progesterone and is given as one pill single dose, which should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex. It can be taken up to five days after sex, but sooner is better.  Plan B and...

People have different preferences with how they enjoy giving and/or receiving oral sex, and some people do not enjoy oral sex. It is helpful to talk with your partners about your sexual needs and desires. Oral sex and STIs Some STIs can be...

Preventing STIs An STI is caused when a bacteria, virus, or parasite is passed from one person to another during sexual contact. Some kinds of sex have a lower chance of passing STIs. For example, the chance of passing an STI is much less...

What you can say “Do you have a condom, or should I get one of mine?” “We can do other things if we don't have a condom.” “It's important to me that we use condoms. How can we make it work for both of us?” “I know we’ve already had...

If you are worried that you might be pregnant, here are some things that you can do: See a health care provider If you had sex without a condom or the condom broke, and you are worried about pregnancy, see your health care provider as...

Getting tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be done in BC at most health clinics and doctors’ offices.  STI testing is free in BC for people with MSP coverage. Many areas have free testing for people without...

What is a sexually transmitted infection? A sexually transmitted infection (STI) is an infection caused by an organism (bacteria, virus, or parasite) that can be passed from one person to another during sex or intimate contact.  How...

Blacking out can happen when a person drinks too much alcohol, does certain drugs, or combines drugs and alcohol. In some situations, you may have voluntarily taken drugs or drank a lot and ended up hooking up with someone. In this case,...

The statistics reported in this section give a snapshot of STIs in the BC population based on surveillance and research data that is available. These statistics have the following important limitations: The true number of people with an...

What is a sexually transmitted infection? A sexually transmitted infection (STI) is caused by an organism (bacteria, virus, or parasite) that can be passed from one person to another during sex or intimate contact. How does someone get an...

What you can do if you are worried that you or your partner could get an STI or become pregnant: See a health care provider If you have had penetrative or oral sex with someone who has an STI, see your health care provider as soon as...

What you can say “I need to let you know I have the virus that causes _______. I use condoms, but let's talk about it”. “Before we have sex, I need to tell you something.  I found out I have _______.” “This is hard for me to talk...

If I have HIV, what are the chances that my HIV test will still show negative? To find out, drag the slider to the number of days since you think you were exposed to HIV.   0 days > 100 days 0days Probability of false...

What is PrEP PrEP stands for Pre-exposure Prophylaxis. It is the use of daily antiretroviral therapy (ART) by HIV negative individuals to lower their chances of getting HIV. PrEP refers to the ongoing use of ART before and after possible...

If I have HIV, what are the chances that my HIV test will still show negative? To find out, drag the slider to the number of days since you think you were exposed to HIV.   0 days > 100 days 0days Probability of...

What is PrEP PrEP stands for Pre-exposure Prophylaxis. It is the use of daily (or on demand) oral antiretroviral therapy (ART) by HIV negative individuals to reduce the risk of acquiring HIV. PrEP refers to ongoing use of ART before and...