Sexual Health

Sexual health is a vital aspect of overall wellbeing and an important part of a healthy lifestyle.

Understanding sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is crucial for staying informed about your health and taking proactive measures. STIs are infections that can be passed through sexual contact. Knowing their symptoms, how to get tested, available treatments, and ways to prevent them helps you take care of yourself and your partners.

Common STIs

Chlamydia

What it is: A common infection caused by bacteria. It’s especially common in young people and can be treated easily if caught early.

Symptoms: Many people don’t notice symptoms, but some experience unusual discharge, pain when urinating, or pelvic pain.

Testing: A urine test or swab.

Treatment: Easily treated with antibiotics.

Gonorrhoea

What it is: A bacterial infection that can affect the genitals, throat, or rectum. It’s one of the most common STIs.
Symptoms: Some people have no symptoms, but it can cause discharge, painful urination, or abdominal discomfort.
Testing: A urine test or swab.
Treatment: Treated with antibiotics, usually an injection followed by tablets.

Syphilis

What it is: A bacterial infection that develops in stages. If untreated, it can cause serious health problems.
Symptoms: Painless sores, rash, fever, or swollen glands. Long-term, it can damage organs.
Testing: A blood test or examination of sores.
Treatment: Syphilis is easily treated with antibiotics.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)

What it is: A virus that attacks the immune system. With treatment, people can live long and healthy lives.
Symptoms: Flu-like symptoms at first, but long-term it can weaken the immune system.
Testing: A blood test or quick finger-prick test.
Treatment: Managed with antiretroviral therapy (ART).

Hepatitis (A, B, and C)

What it is: Viral infections affecting the liver. Hepatitis B and C can spread through sexual contact, while A is often linked to contaminated food or water.
Symptoms: Tiredness, nausea, stomach pain, yellowing of the skin (jaundice).
Testing: Blood test.
Treatment: Hepatitis A and B have vaccines; hepatitis C is treated with antiviral medicine.

Thrush (Candidiasis)

What it is: A fungal infection that’s not always sexually transmitted but can affect the genitals.
Symptoms: Itching, soreness, or thick white discharge.
Testing: Physical exam or swab.
Treatment: Anti-fungal creams, tablets, or pessaries.

Genital Warts

What it is: Caused by certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Warts can appear on the genitals or around the anus.
Symptoms: Small growths or lumps on the skin. Sometimes there are no symptoms.
Testing: Physical examination.
Treatment: Creams, freezing (cryotherapy), or minor procedures.

Genital Herpes

What it is: Caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It’s a long-term condition that can cause outbreaks of sores.
Symptoms: Painful blisters or sores, itching, or flu-like symptoms during outbreaks.
Testing: Swab of sores or blood test.
Treatment: Antiviral medication to manage symptoms.

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

What it is: An imbalance of bacteria in the vagina. It’s not always sexually transmitted.
Symptoms: Thin, grey or white discharge with a strong fishy smell.
Testing: Vaginal swab.
Treatment: Antibiotics as tablets or cream.

Pubic Lice

What it is: Tiny insects that live in pubic hair. They’re spread through close contact.
Symptoms: Intense itching and visible lice or eggs in pubic hair.
Testing: Physical examination.
Treatment: Special shampoos or lotions available at pharmacies.

Protection Against STIs

Protecting yourself and your partners is key to maintaining sexual health:

Use Condoms: Condoms provide excellent protection against most STIs.
Use PrEP: If you are at higher risk of acquiring HIV, you can take PrEP – a pill which can reduce your risk by 99%
Get Vaccinated: Vaccines protect against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and some types of HPV.
Regular Testing: Regular check-ups are essential, especially if you have new or multiple partners.
Talk Openly: Discuss sexual health with partners and seek advice from healthcare providers.
Avoid Sharing Needles: Prevents blood-borne infections like HIV and hepatitis.

Need Sexual Health Services and Support?

The options of support were great. They directed me to counselling sessions that have been hugely beneficial and greatly appreciated.

Revolution HIV Support Client

Blackpool

Tracy was an absolute “gem”. Her care and support helped me through a mentally painful period. She listened, she remembered!

Counselling Client

Lancashire

Revolution has helped me to turn around many negative elements of my life. The staff are extremely knowledgeable of the challenges faced by people living with HIV and have personally given me their time, tools and sound advice needed to start my health management journey and beyond.

Revolution HIV Support Client

Lancashire

Nina is the best support. She has been there for me more than my own nurse has been. When I need support, she is always there.

Revolution HIV Support Client

Blackburn with Darwen

They listened to me and helped me sort out certain issues which were important to me. I felt that they did listen and help me through stuff.

Counselling Client

Blackpool

An exceptional and outstanding support service. The service has given me hope and a sense of belonging.

Revolution HIV Support Client

Blackburn with Darwen

Renaissance UK is a North West based charity specialising in community focused substance use and sexual health services.

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