There are numerous STIs that you should be tested for, many people are unaware of how many different ones there are so don’t worry if you don’t know them all. These are just some of the more common STIs, all of which can show different symptoms with some often showing no initial symptoms at all.
| CHLAMYDIA and GONORRHOEA |
| These are the most common infections in the UK and if left untreated can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease in women and, in due course, infertility. One in ten people under 25 is infected with Chlamydia, even though it is easily treated. |
| GENITAL HERPES |
| Characterised by weeping blisters around the genital area; the condition has no cure but can be managed with anti-viral medication. |
| SYPHILIS |
| Once thought to be nearly eradicated, sadly this infection is on the increase. In the early stages it can be easily cured, but undiagnosed it can eventually cause serious health problems, including organ damage and even death. |
| PUBIC LICE |
| Like a dose of nits for grownups, these little creatures are often too small to see but make the pubic area itchy. Lice spread through sexual contact and even through sharing beds. |
| HEPATITIS |
| There are different strains of hepatitis and the illness is characterised as either acute or chronic. Depending on the strain, most people will not experience long-term damage to health and respond well to treatment, however some strains can be serious and life shortening. |
| HIV and AIDS |
| HIV is the virus that eventually leads to AIDS, the point when someone’s immune system is so damaged by the virus that it can no longer cope, making the patient vulnerable to infections. Nowadays, it is uncommon for HIV to progress to AIDS because of the treatment available. Early diagnosis is key to prolonging life with effective treatments. |