Sexual Health

Just like the rest of your health, your sexual health needs regular maintenance to ensure it remains in good working order. Yet unfortunately, sex isn't something that is often openly discussed and talked about. 

Many people who have a sexually transmitted infection (STI) do not develop any noticeable or obvious symptoms, which can make it difficult to identify these infections early. Therefore, it is important that patients make a point of getting themselves tested regularly to ensure their health and the health of their sexual partners.

What is an STI?

STIs are infections you can get from sexual activities, caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Common STIs include:

• Chlamydia: A bacterial infection spread through sexual contact.

• Gonorrhea: A bacterial infection that can affect the genitals, rectum, and throat.

• Syphilis: A bacterial infection that has stages and can cause serious health issues if not treated.

• HIV: A virus that weakens the immune system and can lead to AIDS if untreated.

• Hepatitis B and C: Viral infections that harm the liver and can be spread through sexual contact.

​What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) differ depending on the type. You may not have any symptoms at all. If you do, they might occur around your genital area and can include:

• Bumps, sores, or warts on or near your penis, vagina, mouth, or anus

• Swelling or severe itching around your penis or vagina

• Discharge from your penis

• Vaginal discharge that smells bad, causes irritation, or has an unusual color or amount

• Vaginal bleeding outside of your period

• Pain during sex

• Painful or frequent urination

How often should I be tested?

Anyone who is sexually active should have regular sexual health check-ups and get an STI test every 6 to 12 months, even if you are in a long-term relationship and use condoms. You should be tested if you have a new sexual partner and more often if you have multiple sexual partners.

All sexually active men who have sex with men should have a sexual health check-up every 3 months. It is recommended to be tested for gonorrhoea, chlamydia, syphilis and HIV every 12 months.

Regular testing can prevent serious long-term health complications.

What happens during an STI test?

There are different types of STI test. The type you should have will depend on your individual situation. Your doctor may ask you some questions to assess your risk of STIS and decide which test you need.

In some cases, a urine sample may be enough for testing. In other situations, you might need blood tests or throat swabs, anal swabs or vaginal swabs.