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STIs are infections that can be passed from person to person during:
- Vaginal sex
- Anal sex
- Oral sex
STIs are common; easily treated and managed. Many people will get an STI in their lifetime.
If left untreated, STIs can have long-term effects on health.
There are many different STIs, including:
- Hepatitis B
- Genital herpes
STIs are passed on through body fluids or by genital skin to skin contact during sexual contact.
Most STIs have no symptoms, someone could have an STI without knowing it.
Symptoms may include:
- unusual discharge
- pain when peeing
- pain during or after sex
- sores / lumps / rashes
- unusual bleeding
If you’ve ever had vaginal, anal or oral sex, the only way to know if you have an STI is to get tested.
You can choose where you want to get a test:
- Local doctor
- Sexual health clinic
- Health service
Testing is simple. You will be asked some questions, including what type of sex you’ve had and if you have any symptoms. A simple urine, swab or blood sample is often all that’s needed.
- STI testing locations
- Free online chlamydia and gonorrhea testing
Some STIs can be treated easily with antibiotics (chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis).
Viruses such as genital herpes, HPV, HIV and Hepatitis B can be effectively treated to manage symptoms.
Using condoms correctly and consistently for vaginal and anal sex.
Some STIs are passed on through oral sex.
Using condoms or dams is the best way to protect yourself. A dam is a sheet of latex used as a barrier for oral-vaginal or oral-anal sex.
Have an STI test every year and every time you have a new sexual partner.
Vaccines are available to protect against Hepatitis B and HPV, the virus that if untreated may lead cervical cancer.
- Condoms and dams offer the best protection against STIs.
- Other methods of contraception don’t protect from STIs.
- Talk to your partner/s about STIs and getting tested.
Our nurses are available to confidentially answer your questions about:
- Unintended pregnancy
- Cervical screening
- Sexual health
- Some bulk billing options and same day appointments available
- STI appointments can be booked online
Talk to our experienced counsellors about STIs and other sexual health issues.
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Information last updated May 2023
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