Most sexually transmitted infections are common, treatable or preventable, and many cause no symptoms at all. These guides explain how testing works, what protects you, and where to get confidential care.
3 in-depth guides in this topic.
Get tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) if you have symptoms, a new partner, unprotected sex or a partner who has an STI, and as part of routine check-ups. Most tests use a urine sample, a swab or a blood test, are confidential, and many infections cause no symptoms, so testing is the only way to know.
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Safer sex means combining a few simple habits that lower the chance of passing on or catching a sexually transmitted infection (STI): using a condom or dental dam correctly every time, choosing a lubricant that will not damage it, getting vaccinated against HPV and hepatitis B, and testing regularly. No single method removes all risk, but together they protect you well.
7 min read
PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is medicine that HIV-negative people take before possible exposure to greatly reduce their chance of getting HIV. PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is an emergency course of medicine started after a possible exposure, as soon as possible and within 72 hours. Both need a clinician, and neither protects against other STIs.
7 min read
A four-step plan to understand STI testing, choose where to go, and walk in with the right questions.
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Yes. Many STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhoea, HPV and HIV, can cause no symptoms for months or years. That is why health services recommend regular testing if you have new or multiple partners, even when you feel completely well. Untreated infections can still cause complications and can be passed on.
Sexual health services keep your results confidential. In many countries, including the UK, specialist sexual health clinics do not share results with your family doctor without your permission. You can ask the clinic how your information is stored before you test.
Not with latex or polyisoprene condoms. Oil-based products such as petroleum jelly, body lotion and massage oil weaken these materials and can make the condom break. Choose a water-based or silicone-based lubricant instead. Internal condoms made of nitrile or polyurethane are not damaged by oil, but always check the packet instructions first.
They lower the risk but cannot remove it. Herpes and HPV spread through skin-to-skin contact, and they can affect areas that a condom does not cover. Using condoms consistently still reduces transmission. The HPV vaccine adds strong protection against the most harmful HPV types, and regular check-ups help catch any infection early.
As soon as possible. PEP works best when started within 24 hours of a possible exposure and must be started no later than 72 hours afterwards. Go to a sexual health clinic or hospital emergency department and explain that you need PEP. Do not wait for symptoms or for a clinic appointment on another day.
No. PrEP only prevents HIV. It does not protect against chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, herpes, HPV or other infections, and it does not prevent pregnancy. That is why PrEP services include regular STI testing, and why condoms are still recommended. Many people combine PrEP, condoms and vaccination for the broadest protection.