STIs and your sexual health
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infectious diseases that are spread through sexual contact. In the past, these were called sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), but the name has changed to be more accurate. The main difference between a disease and an infection is that a disease tends to have symptoms, whereas an infection can be asymptomatic. STIs are often asymptomatic, or have symptoms that show up later. If symptoms do show, they depend on the type of STI, but can include pain, itchiness, bleeding, and swelling. Flu-like symptoms are also associated with a number of STIs. The majority of STIs occur among people aged 15 to 24. Some common STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. While these are currently curable, some STIs are becoming resistant to medication. There are also some STIs that do not have a cure, but can be treated, such as HIV and herpes.
Being an advocate for yourself and for your own sexual health can help to protect you from getting STIs, such as by requesting protection and discussing sexual history with your partners. Protection from some STIs includes condoms and dental dams. Being up to date on vaccinations (such as HPV) is another way to protect yourself. Additionally, getting tested regularly and knowing your health status is important. It’s recommended that you get tested annually, or between sexual partners, whichever comes first. In addition to using protection, it is important to actively treat any STIs you may contract. If left untreated, long-term consequences can include infection, sores, pain, infertility, and life-threatening complications. Additionally, many STIs are comorbid, so once you have one, you are more likely to get another. You can get tested at your local doctor’s office, or in Guelph at Public Health (20 Chancellors Way) or at ARCH. Testing depends on the type of STI, but can include a swab, urine samples, and blood tests.Some people note that they do not like to use condoms as a form of protection. If you are looking to make condoms more pleasurable, try adding a drop of water inside the tip or using silicon-based lube on the outside (never use an oil-based lube with a condom). There are many types and brands of condoms (e.g. flavoured or ribbed), try some out and see what works for you. Putting a condom on may feel like it is interrupting, so try eroticising the condom, for example, make it part of foreplay.
Check out next week’s column for more information on sexual health.
Photo courtesy of Michael Prewett via CC0