Sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Sexually Transmitted Infections are infections that you can get through unprotected sexual contact (vaginal, anal or oral sex). Although some infections like herpes and warts can also be gotten through non-sexual (skin to skin) contact.

CAUSES OF STIs

Some STIs such as syphilis, Chlamydia, and gonorrhoea are caused by bacteria. Other STIs such as pubic lice are caused by parasites. STIs caused by these types of microorganisms can be cured.
Other STIs are caused by viruses. These include: herpes, genital warts (HPV) and HIV. These STIs cannot be cured but their symptoms can be treated and managed through medications and healthy living. Being infected with an STI can cause open sores (wound) on your penis and vagina and other organs, this increases your risk of contracting HIV which cannot be cured.

SYMPTOMS OF STIs IN BOTH BOYS AND GIRLS

Most STIs have no symptoms – so you may not know you have them. But they can be treated easily. So it is important to have an STI test, if you have had unprotected sex. (click here to find an STI test centre near you). Symptoms of STIs in both guys and girls include:

• Sores, rashes, boil on the vagina, penis, mouth or anus area
• Burning or pains when urinating or going to toilet.
• Urinating often.
• Itching or swelling of the private parts (penis and vagina)
• Swelling or redness of the throat ( for people engaging in oral sexual activities) etc

SYMPTOMS OF STIs IN BOYS ONLY

Symptoms of STIs which are present in guys only include:
 Abnormal or unusual drip or discharge from the penis that may look like pus ( yellowish or whitish).
 Pains on the inside of the sexual organs (epididymis)

SYMPTOMS OF STIs IN GIRLS ONLY

 Abnormal and unusual discharge from the vagina, usually with odour and coloured.
 Pains around the lower abdomen.
 Burning or itching around the vagina.
 Bleeding from the vagina during or after sexual intercourse
 Pains around the abdomen during sexual intercourse

BEHAVIOURS THAT PUTS YOU AT RISK OF CONTRACTING AN STI

You are at risk of getting an STI if you:
 Have unprotected sexual intercourse (without using a condom) with either a guy or a girl who is infected.
 Have more than one sexual partner
 Get high or drunk before sexual intercourse
 Do not know the signs and symptoms of an STI or recognize them in a sex partner.
(click here to check your risk of getting an STI)

SIDE EFFECTS OF STIs

If you have an STI and do not go for treatment, they can cause serious health problems which include: damage to your reproductive organs leading to infertility, damage to other body organs like the liver and the heart, blindness of an unborn baby if you are pregnant, pelvic inflammatory disease especially in girls, breakdown of the immune system or death.
If you notice any signs and symptoms that make you suspect an STI, visit a youth friendly health centre to get tested and be sure of your status. (click here to find a youth friendly centre near you).

HOW TO AVOID GETTING AN STI

Remember that female and male condoms with water-based lubricant are the only form of contraception that will protect you from getting both STIs and unplanned pregnancy (dual protection). To prevent getting STIs:
 Practice abstinence. Do not engage in sexual activities until you are ready.
 Be faithful to one uninfected partner if you feel ready to engage in sexual activities
 Correctly use a condom every time you have sexual intercourse, this can also prevent unplanned pregnancy and some other STIs.