1. What are STIs?
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections that spread from one person to another through sexual contact — vaginal, anal, or oral.
They’re caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites, and anyone who’s sexually active can get one.
Having an STI doesn’t mean you’re reckless or dirty. It just means your body needs attention and care, simply means your body needs attention and care, just like you’d for the same way you’d treat a cold or an infection. The real issue isn’t having an STI; it’s not known and not treating it early.
2. Why talking about STIs matters
Too often, people stay silent out of shame or fear — and that silence allows infections to spread. But when you understand how STIs work, you can protect yourself and your partner.
Knowing your status isn’t a confession. It’s self-care.
Getting tested regularly is responsibility.
And treating an STI is normal healthcare.
3. Common STIs you should know
Here’s a quick guide to the most common STIs, how they show up, and what you can do about them:
1. Chlamydia
- Caused by bacteria, easily cured with antibiotics.
- Often has no symptoms — but can cause discharge, burning while peeing, or pain during sex.
- If untreated, it can lead to infertility.
2. Gonorrhea
- Another bacterial infection — very common.
- Symptoms may include discharge (yellowish or greenish), burning when peeing, or pelvic pain.
- Treatable with antibiotics.
3. HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)
- Attacks your immune system.
- There’s no cure yet, but treatment (ART) allows people to live long, healthy lives.
- Early testing = early management = long life.
4. Syphilis
- Starts with painless sores or rashes, but can cause serious damage if ignored.
- Treatable with antibiotics if caught early.
5. Herpes (HSV)
- Causes small blisters or sores around the mouth or genitals.
- No permanent cure, but antiviral meds help manage outbreaks.
6. HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
- Can cause genital warts or increase the risk of cervical cancer.
- Vaccines are available — and safe.
7. Trichomoniasis (“Trich”)
- Caused by a parasite, leads to itching, burning, or frothy discharge.
- Easily treated with medication.
4. How STIs spread
Most STIs spread through:
- Vaginal, anal, or oral sex without a condom.
- Skin-to-skin contact with infected areas (like herpes or HPV).
- Sharing needles or sharp tools.
- From mother to baby during pregnancy or childbirth.
Remember: You can’t always tell who has an STI. Some infections don’t show symptoms for weeks, months, or even years.
5. Symptoms to watch for
Sometimes STIs are silent — no itching, no pain, nothing at all.
But when symptoms appear, they might include:
- Unusual discharge (from the penis or vagina)
- Pain during urination or sex
- Sores, rashes, or bumps on your genitals
- Lower belly pain
- Itching, burning, or irritation around genitals or anus
If you notice any of these signs, don’t panic — just get tested.
6. Getting tested
Testing is simple, private, and often free in many clinics. It might involve:
- A urine test
- A blood test
- A swab from the affected area
You don’t need to feel embarrassed. Health workers are trained to be discreet and supportive. If you ever feel judged, you have every right to ask for another provider.
Pro tip: Even if you have no symptoms, get tested every 6–12 months if you’re sexually active — or sooner if you’ve had unprotected sex or multiple partners.
7. Treatment and care
- Bacterial STIs (like gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis) are curable with antibiotics.
- Viral STIs (like HIV or herpes) aren’t curable yet but can be managed with medication.
- Parasitic infections (like trichomoniasis) are easily treated.
The earlier you treat an STI, the better the outcome. Avoid self-medication — always get tested first, then follow a healthcare provider’s advice.
Important: Avoid sexual contact until your treatment is complete, and make sure your partner also gets treated.
8. Prevention — your best protection
STIs are preventable. Here’s how to stay protected:
- Use condoms correctly and consistently.
They protect against both pregnancy and STIs — double win.
- Get tested regularly.
Normalize STI checks the same way you’d check your blood pressure.
- Communicate openly.
Talk about sexual health before things get heated. It’s not awkward — it’s maturity.
- Get vaccinated.
The HPV and Hepatitis B vaccines can protect you from serious infections.
- Avoid sharing needles or sharp objects.
Stay safe in all aspects of health.
9. Myths vs Facts
Let’s set the record straight:
Myth: You can tell if someone has an STI by looking.
Fact: Many STIs have no visible symptoms.
Myth: Only people with many partners get STIs.
Fact: One unprotected encounter is enough.
Myth: Getting an STI means your life is over.
Fact: Most STIs are treatable or manageable — early care changes everything.
Myth: You can’t get STIs from oral sex.
Fact: You can. Use protection during all types of sexual activity.
10. Where to get help
You can get STI testing, treatment, or counseling from:
- Youth-friendly health centers like Marie Stopes
- Public hospitals and clinics
- Community outreach programs offering free testing
If you’re worried about privacy, ask for confidential services, many centers have them.
What To Remember
- There’s no shame in getting tested.
There’s no shame in getting treated.
The only shame is staying silent when help exists.
Your sexual health is part of your overall health — it deserves care, respect, and attention. You are not dirty, weak, or “spoiled.” You’re human, and you’re learning to care for yourself. That’s power.
