STIs

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are diseases passed on through bodily fluids during sex. They're all pretty nasty and can even cause lasting damage if left untreated. But most are completely treatable and curable with the right antibiotics or creams. But even better, they're all preventable if you use a condom when you have sex.

If you're worried that you might have an STI find your nearest GUM clinic and get checked out

I think I have an STI - what should I do?

Get yourself checked out straight away at your doctors or sexual health clinic. Don't put it off. Yes, you might find it embarrassing or scary when you turn up, but the staff are all professionals and they've seen it all before. They'll just think you're great for taking care of yourself. It's also completely confidential and you don't even have to give your real name if you don't want to. If you do have an STI, you'll get the treatment you need all free of charge. They're also there to give you more information about sex and how to protect yourself against STIs.

It's also important to tell anyone you've slept with that you may have given them an STI - they deserve to know. Don't assume they'll notice something is wrong as some STIs don't show any symptoms but can cause lasting damage if left untreated. So try to break the news to them as calmly as possible and tell them they need to go for tests.