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STI's

What are STIs?
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) affect both boys and girls and are called viruses, or bacteria, and are passed on during sex. The most common include Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Genital Warts and Herpes. You can't always tell by looking if you or your partner has an STI so if you're worried that you may have caught one you should visit a doctor or clinic as soon as possible. Most STIs are easily treated but some STIs, including HIV, cannot be cured. The best thing you can do to prevent getting an STI is to always use a condom during sexual activity. Condoms are the only contraception that protect against both STIs and pregnancy.

What is thrush?
Thrush is something both boys and girls can get, but girls are more likely to get it. Many people think you have to have sex to get Thrush but this is not true. It is caused by yeast that normally lives in the vagina. This yeast is normally controlled by harmless bacteria, but sometimes the yeast gets out of control and grows, causing Thrush. Thrush can be caused by a number of things including wearing tight clothes and using strongly perfumed bath products. You can't catch it through sex, but it could get worse or be more obvious after sex. Usually the first sign of Thrush is change of vaginal discharge. It might get thick and smell "yeasty". Thrush may also cause itching and some swelling. You should see a doctor as soon as you can and it can be easily treated by creams or pills.

How do I know if I have an STI?
The only way to know for sure if you have an STI is to get tested by your GP or nurse, at your local Young Person's, Family Planning, or (GUM) clinic. STIs affect both boys and girls and though they sometimes have unpleasant symptoms, they can also have none at all. If you have ever had sex without a condom at any time then you could be at risk of having an STI and you should go and see your GP, nurse or a clinic as soon as possible.

Thankfully most STIs can be treated — but as not all of them can be cured, you really do owe it to yourself to always use a condom during sexual activity.

What will they ask me when I go to the clinic and will they keep my information private?
The clinic will ask you for a few details such as your name, age and contact details. Some people are tempted to give pretend details but remember that everything is kept completely confidential anyway, even if you are under 16. The only circumstance in which this doesn't apply is if they think you are in serious danger and even then they should discuss this with you first. Most importantly you will need to tell them your true sexual history so that they can help you. Clinics deal with many young people every day and they have a good idea how you might be feeling and for this reason they will make your visit as comfortable and private as possible.

Can you get pregnant or an STI from fingering?
It is not common to get pregnant or catch an STI through fingering but there are risks. If a boy has sperm on his fingers and then immediately touches a girl's vagina, there would be a small risk, for example. To find out more about protecting yourself however far you have gone, call the Sexwise helpline or visit your local doctor or clinic. Remember you can get free and confidential advice about sex, relationships, contraception and abortion even if you are under 16.

I have spots on my penis and it itches. Is this normal?
If you have had sex without using a condom recently then it would be advisable to visit your local NHS Sexual Health (GUM) clinic, GP, nurse, Young Persons' Sexual Health, or Family Planning clinic as you may have picked up an STI. Lots of boys have normal lumps and bumps in their penis, or it could be that it is something simple like an allergy or an irritation. But if you have concerns, or there are any changes in your genitalia you should seek advice from a doctor or clinic. Remember that medical people see problems like this every day so there is nothing to be embarrassed about.

If I swallow spunk will it damage me?
Swallowing sperm (spunk) shouldn't hurt, or make you pregnant but you could catch an (STI) through oral sex. Not everyone likes oral sex, but if you are going to do it always use a condom to protect yourself — some people prefer to use flavoured condoms (available from vending machines, chemists etc).

Can you get an STI from anal or oral sex?
Yes. If you are having vaginal, anal or oral sex always use a condom, or another barrier method. Condoms are your best protection from sexually transmitted infections.

Can you get pregnant/catch an STI from a toilet seat?
You can't get pregnant or catch an STI from sitting on a toilet seat. To become pregnant sperm needs to go in or around the vagina.