Oak Valley Health’s patient education pages share the skills, knowledge, and habits patients and families need to know to cope with a daily health issue. We hope this information can influence patient behaviour to improve health outcomes and provide you with a sense of control and autonomy.
Learn more about the risks, causes, and treatment of sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are contagious diseases. They spread or are transmitted through the exchange of bodily fluids during sex or sexual contact. Saliva, sperm, blood, vaginal discharge, and urine are examples of bodily fluids. STIs are very common in people of all ages.
Common STIs
Genital Herpes, also called herpes simplex virus or HSV
Hepatitis B
Chlamydia
Gonorrhea
Syphilis
Genital warts, caused by HPV (human papillomavirus)
Some types can also cause cervical and anal cancers
HIV (human immunodeficiency virus)
You have unprotected sex
You are a man who has sex with men
You have more than one sexual partner
Your sex partner has multiple sex partners
You have sex with someone who has a known STI
You have or have had a previous STI
You inject drugs or have sex partner(s) who inject drugs
Unpleasant symptoms like genital ulcers, vaginal/penile discharge, pain.
Take medication for the rest of your life
Affect your fertility
Increase risk in developing the following:
Cervical/anal cancer
Head and neck cancer
Pelvic inflammatory disease (women)
Organ damage
Problems during pregnancy and childbirth (can be passed to child)
Changes in your lifestyle
Avoid using drugs and drinking alcohol when having sex
Preventative medicines (speak to your doctor for more information)
Be up to date with vaccinations
Have only one sexual partner or reduce your number of sexual partners
