If you have unprotected sex (without a condom), you could get an STD or STI
Sometimes STI and STD means the same thing and both are caught through having sex.
It is very important to get tested as soon as you can and treated, if needed.
To find your nearest clinic, visit: Sexual Health Centres (NHS).
Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD)
This includes:
- HIV.
Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI)
This includes:
Chlamydia
You can catch this if:
- You have unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex.
- Your genitals come into contact with your partner's genitals.
- You share sex toys when they are not washed or covered with a new condom between each person using them.
If any of the above apply to you, find your nearest sexual health clinic and get tested. Tests are done with a simple urine sample.
If you are pregnant it is especially important to get tested. You can pass it on to your baby.
For more on how to get tested, what to tell partners or for a free postal testing kit (under 25 years only):
- Visit: Chlamydia Testing
- Phone: (01422) 261370.
Gonorrhoea
This is also known as "the clap".
You can catch this if you:
- Have unprotected vaginal, oral or anal sex.
- Share sex toys when they are not washed or covered with a new condom between each person using them.
If any of the above apply to you, get tested as soon as you can. To find your nearest clinic, visit: Sexual Health Centres (NHS).
Condoms
Buy them
From pharmacies and supermarkets.
Get some free ones
From your school nurse, sexual health clinic and some pharmacies.
For confidential advice before you buy condoms, visit: Condoms (NHS).
More information
For more about STIs, visit: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) (NHS).
To find other help for people with HIV, AIDS, STIs and other STDs, please contact: Gateway.