STIs, or sexually transmitted infections, are spread through having unprotected sex with someone who has an STI.
You can also get STIs by coming into contact with sexual fluids (semen, pre-ejaculate and vaginal fluid) and the surfaces of the penis, vulva, rectum and mouth. All sexual contact that involves bodily fluids should be considered risky.
You can protect yourself and your partner from STIs, including HIV, if you use a condom each time and for every round of sex (vaginal or anal). The use of condoms does decrease your risk of getting STIs but is not 100% safe, because even with a condom you can still come into contact with infectious areas of the genitals.
HIV, the virus that leads to AIDS, is also an STI but it can also be spread through blood and breast milk.
In the early stages you cannot see STIs. But even if you can’t see them they are infectious and can be passed onto others.
If you have any of the following symptons you should consult a health care worker as soon as possible:
> Unusual discharge from vagina, penis or anus.
> Itchy genitals.
> Pain when urinating.
> Pain during sexual intercourse.
> Genital sores.
> Swollen glands in the groin.
> Lower abdominal pain.
> Rashes and warts.
Most STIs (other than HIV) can be cured with antibiotics. The earlier you go to the clinic and get treated the easier it will be to cure the infection.
Always finish all the medicine you are given even if it looks like the infection has gone. If you stop taking your medicine before it is finished, the infection may come back.
Never share your medicines as this will mean that neither you nor the other person will have enough in your system to cure the STI.
As a male you might consult a traditional healer – you need to also visit your doctor.
