STI Basics
Preventing STIs
Practicing safer sex is a good way to lower your chances of preventing unwanted pregnancy, getting a sexually transmitted infection (STI), or passing one on to a partner. This does not have to mean ‘no sex’ or ‘no fun sex’. We recommend you find out what works best for you and your partners.
Know Your Chances
A common question people have is “What are my chances of getting an STI?” While there is no simple answer, the charts below give an estimate of your chances, when your partner has that sexually transmitted infection (STI).
Symptoms & Testing
It can be hard to tell if you have an STI, many do not always show symptoms. The only way to know is to get tested.
We include information about when to test and window periods. We also describe different tests & exams, what to expect when going for STI testing, getting results, and notifying partners. We also talk about reportable infections and how your privacy and confidentiality is protected.
Treating & Living with STIs
STIs are very common; most people who are sexually active will get a STI in their lifetime. All STIs can either be treated or managed. If you are living with a STI, you can still have healthy, pleasurable, and fulfilling sexual relationships.
PrEP
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) involves the use of a daily (or on-demand) oral HIV medication (called antiretrovirals or HAART) by people who are HIV-negative to prevent HIV infection.
PrEP is different from PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis), as PrEP is taken before exposure to HIV and may be taken on a long-term basis.
PEP
Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is a 4-week course of medications that you can take if you are HIV negative and think that you have been recently exposed to HIV. The medications are called antiretroviral drugs (or HAART), and are the same drugs used to treat HIV infection.