Although STIs are extremely common, there’s good news. Using condoms can hugely reduce the risk of getting an STI, and, if you do get one, treating STIs is easy in most cases – if caught early.
The long and short
STI is a short way to say Sexually Transmitted Infection.
You can get an STI from having sex with or without penetration. STI’s spread when bacteria or a virus gets on or in your body from another person that has an infection.
STIs are common. In fact, most people who have sex will get one at some stage.
On the sneak
You probably won’t know it when you get one. Most STIs don’t feel like anything. Some STIs have a few signs. Some can be pretty painful or turn into worse things. If you do get an STI, or have one, knowing about it early means less risk for long-term health problems.
Cover your budoo and fingers
Beat the STI before it happens. STIs can happen from any kind of sex. If. They can happen when your penis, vagina or anus touch another penis, vagina, anus or bodily fluids. You can even get an STI from someone that is infected if your mouth touches their penis, vagina, anus or bodily fluids. Always use a condom during sex.
Get tested asap
STI tests are simple and private. You can do the tests with your doctor, at an Aboriginal Medical Service (AMS), or at a sexual health clinic. Instead of a doctor or nurse collecting samples, you can do that part yourself. It’s not shame. Your health is important. Doing a regular STI test every 6 to 12 months is a normal part of being healthy.
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