If you or your partner has had unprotected sex, then you need to know about sexually transmitted infections or STI’s.
If you or your partner has had unprotected sex, then you need to know about sexually transmitted infections or STI’s.
Myth – If you have an STI you would see the signs.
Fact – Most STI’s have no symptoms or if they do they are very mild. STI’s
can cause harm to your body if left untreated so it is important to get checked if
you have started to have unprotected sex.
Myth – STI’s can be annoying and inconvenient but most STI’s don’t carry serious consequences.
Fact – If you have an STI and is left untreated, they can have long lasting and
damaging effects on your health. They may cause infertility, cancers of the
vulva, vagina, cervix, penis and anus or urinary tract infections. Some STI’s can
cause death such as AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome).
Myth – You can ‘catch’ an STI from handling phones, using toilet seats or any object used by a person who has an STI.
Fact – The only way that you can catch an STI is from having unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex. STI’s are not spread on toilet seats, shaking hands with or touching a person who has an STI.
Myth – You can only get an STI once in your life
Fact – Your body does not build an immunity to an STI. If you or your partner has an STI that you or they are unaware of you may be passing the STI back and forth between you. Once you have had an STI it is more common that you will catch another one in your lifetime.
Myth – It is best practise to wait until a symptom appears before you go to visit your GP
Fact – If you have a feeling that you may have an STI from having unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex it is best to go visit your GP who will advise you on what to do next. All STI’s require professional medical treatment.
Have regular check-ups for STI’s. Click here to find a list of STI clinics in Ireland.
Always practise safe sex - but if you have contracted an STI please don't be embarrassed or ashamed. It doesn't make you dirty, unclean or a bad person.