Troubling transmission
Question
How can you catch an STI? Can two people having sex for the first time catch one?
Answer
There are many different types of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and they can be spread in different ways, including:
- vaginal intercourse (where the penis penetrates the vagina);
- oral sex (where partners kiss or stimulate each others genitals with their tongues or mouths);
- anal sex (where the penis penetrates the anus).
In addition, STIs can be transmitted in other ways, such as kissing. To find out more you can you can read about specific STIs.
If somebody has had unprotected sexual contact with other people, but not penetrative sex, there is a chance they could have caught an STI. If you have unprotected sexual contact with someone who has an STI, then you would be at risk of catching it.
People who have an infection sometimes get symptoms to show that something is wrong. But often they don't. Symptoms can include:
- unusual discharge from the vagina or penis;
- heavy periods or bleeding between periods;
- pain or burning sensation when passing urine;
- rashes;
- itching or tingling around the genitals or anus.
If you're worried that you may have an infection, you can get advice and testing at a genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic. Consultations are free and confidential, which means that no one will be told about your visit, unless you want them to be.
It's common to feel nervous at the thought of being tested for an infection, but it's important to remember that most infections are easily treatable. Delaying treatment could mean that an infection gets worse and other problems could occur.
To reduce the risk of getting an STI in the future, always use a condom during sex. Dental dams (thin squares of latex) can also be used as a barrier during sex involving contact between the mouth and the vagina, or the mouth and the anus.
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