Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Sexually transmitted infections are spread during vaginal, oral, or anal sex with someone who has the disease.

• Chlamydia or NGU
• Gonorrhea
• Hepatitis B*
• Herpes
• HIV/AIDS*
• HPV/Genital Warts
• Syphilis
• Trichomoniasis (Trich) or NGU**

*These diseases are also spread by sharing needles and contact with infected blood
** spread during vaginal sex

Symptoms to Watch for:

Many people have STDs without symptoms, but noticeable symptoms are:

In Women:

• An unusual discharge or smell from your vagina
• Pain in your pelvic area – (the area between your belly button and sex organs)
• Burning or itching around your vagina
• Bleeding from your vagina that is not your regular period
• Pain deep inside your vagina when you have sex

In Men:

• A drip or discharge from your penis

In Women and Men:

• Sores, bumps or blisters near your sex organs, rectum or mouth
• Burning and pain when you urinate or have a bowel movement
• Need to urinate often
• Itching around your sex organs
• A swelling or redness in your throat
• Flu-like feelings with fever, chills and aches
• Swelling in your groin (the area around your sex organs)

How to Protect Yourself:

Stay Safe – not having sex is safest; having sex with only one uninfected partner who only has sex with you is also safe.

If You Have Sex:

• Use latex condoms with a water-based lubricant EVERY time you have vaginal, anal or oral sex. Condoms will protect you from STDs most of the time.
• Use plastic (polyurethane) condoms if you’re allergic to latex. These come in both male and female styles.
• Talk to your partner about past sex partners and needle drug use. Don’t have sex with someone who you think may have an STD.
• Look closely at your partner for any signs of STDs– a rash, a sore or discharge. If you see anything you’re worried about don’t have sex.

Take Action:

• Get checked for STDs regularly
• Vaccines can help protect you against hepatitis B and some types of HPV
• Know the signs and symptoms of STDs

If You Have An STD:

• Tell your sex partner(s)
• Wait to have sex