What is a sexually transmitted disease (STI)?
A sexually transmitted infection (STI) is an infection that can be caught by having unprotected sex and includes:
For more on STIs, visit: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) (NHS).
What is a sexually transmitted disease (STD)?
It is a disease that can be caught by having unprotected sex and includes:
- HIV.
Sometimes STIs and STDs mean the same thing. Infections or diseases got through having sex are commonly known as STIs and STDs.
If I have unprotected sex, will I get an STI or STD?
You could be at risk. 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) .
Chlamydia
Chlamydia is a STI you can get by having unprotected sex (without a condom) with someone that already has it.
You can get it through:
- unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex;
- your genitals coming into contact with your partner's genitals;
- sharing sex toys when they are not washed or covered with a new condom between each person who uses 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
- Telephone: 01422 261370.
Gonorrhoea
Gonorrhoea is a STI you can get by having unprotected sex (without a condom) with someone that already has it. This is was also known as "the clap".
You can get it through:
- unprotected vaginal, oral or anal sex;
- sharing sex toys when they are not washed or covered with a new condom between each person who uses 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).
Where to get condoms from
You can purchase condoms from pharmacies, supermarkets and your school nurse.
For confidential advice before you buy condoms, visit: Condoms (NHS).
More information
For STIs, visit: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) (NHS).
To find other organisations who help people with HIV, AIDS, STIs and other STDs, please contact: Gateway to Care.