Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infectious diseases that spread from one person to another through any type of sexual contact.

Prevention is key; talking about STIs and safe sex with every partner so that you can protect one another, checking that you are up-to-date with vaccinations against Hepatitis and HPV, and using condoms and/or oral dams are all good ways to protect yourself and your partner.

Early detection can also help reduce or avoid health complications and can help minimize the spread of STIs to others.

Since many STIs don’t show any obvious signs or symptoms, at least at first, it’s important to take precautions to protect yourself and your partner and to get tested regularly.

Using substances, including alcohol, cannabis and opioids, can increase your risk of STIs. Substance use can impair your judgment and lead to risky sexual behaviour, including unprotected sex and multiple partners. If you are sexually active and using substances, it is important to get tested regularly.

In this section, you will find detailed descriptions of the signs and symptoms of common STIs, and considerations for prevention, testing, and treatment options for each one.