STDs vs. STIs What’s the difference? Why? Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) has replaced the term Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) Why? STI is a more encompassing term that includes infections that are asymptomatic (show no symptoms)

What is an STI? Sexually Transmitted Infections are infections generally spread by close sexual contact and sexual intercourse. They can spread by contact with an infected partners: Skin Genitals Body fluids Mucous membranes eg. eyes, mouth

What are some common STIs? Chlamydia Genital herpes Genital warts (HPV) Human Papillomavirus Virus Gonorrhoea Hepatitis B/C (also a blood borne infection) HIV and AIDS (also a blood borne infection) Syphilis Pubic Lice (crabs) Scabies

Bacterial, Parasitic, or Viral STIs Bacterial/Parasitic: If bacteria or a parasite causes an infection, it can be treated with antibiotic or antimicrobial medication Viral: If a virus causes an infection, it is possible for it to remain “asymptomatic” for periods of time (meaning there are no symptoms). It is possible to have the virus and not know it, and it is possible to pass it to another person without either person knowing it. Viral STIs can be treated with medications; but not cured.

Which STIs are Bacterial? Chlamydia Gonorrhorea Syphilis

Which STIs are Parasitic? Pubic Lice (crabs) Scabies

Which STIs are Viral? HIV and AIDS Genital Warts (HPV) Genital Herpes Hepatitis B and C

Which STIs are Blood-Borne? HIV and AIDS Hepatitis B and C

Blood Borne Infections Blood-borne infections are spread by contaminated blood. Some are also spread through body fluids (semen, vaginal secretions) and breast milk (HIV only). They can be transmitted by: sharing needles contaminated body piercing and tattooing equipment helping an infected person who is bleeding without using gloves sexual intercourse and close sexual contact with someone who is infected an infected mother to her baby

Male Anatomy Viruses and bacteria might be: In the mouth, throat or eye On the penis In the urethra In the rectum or anus In semen and pre-semen In the blood On the skin in or around the genital area

Female Anatomy Viruses and bacteria might be: In the mouth, throat or eye On the cervix In the vagina In the rectum or anus In vaginal fluid In the blood On the skin in or around the genital area

What are common symptoms? burning while urinating itching discharge (for females, different colour, amount or foul smell. For males, anything other than semen or urine) sores, bumps or a rash on or around the genitals.

It is common to have NO SYMPTOMS at all!

Complications of STIs Infertility (male and female) Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in woman Epididymitis in men Urinary tract complications Cervical cancer Psychological impact Serious illness and death

How can STIs be prevented? Abstinence – No skin to genital, genital to genital, body fluid to genital contact Limiting number of sexual partners Use condoms correctly and consistently Communication with partner – sexual history Not having sex if you see a sore, etc. Regular STI testing (at least annually, more often if you’ve had multiple partners)

When should I get tested? Before you have sex with a new partner If you or your partner have been sexually active and have never been tested If you know your current or past partner has a STI If you have been forced to have sex If you have any STI symptoms At least once a year if you are sexually active

Male Condoms Provides a barrier for skin to skin contact and body fluids which can help protect against pregnancy and STI Available at pharmacies, grocery stores and health clinics Use a condom for oral, vaginal and anal sex or when sharing sex toys Most condoms are latex. Non-latex types include polyurethane, and polyisoprene (synthetic rubber) Check expiry date and keep in a dark cool place Do not use with oil-based products like Vaseline®, baby oil or hand cream. They increase the chance of the condom breaking Use a new condom every time you have sex. Never use two condoms at once

Safer Sex Abstinence is the only 100% way to prevent the transmission of STIs If you choose to be sexually active: Talk to your partner about your sexual health histories Choose to protect yourself from both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) Limit your number of partners Get tested regularly for STIs Get more information

Key Messages Consistently and correctly use condoms STIs often have NO symptoms Communicate with your partner about protecting yourselves from STIs If you are sexually active have regular testing for STIs

Where can I go for help? School Counsellor Teacher Walk in Clinic Family Doctor Sexual Health Clinic