Introduction to STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections)

In this section you will find information about the most common sexually transmitted infections ( STIs) that gay men might catch. Using condoms will protect you from many of these and many of them are easily cured or can be vaccinated against. However, the transmission of some STIs is very difficult to prevent even if you have safer sex, so sexually active gay men should go for a check up about every six months to test for these infections. You may have an STI without knowing it, so sexual health check ups are an important part of staying healthy.

This site provides a full list of London's GUM clinics, where you can have a free and confidential sexual health check-up. If you live outside of London you can find your local clinic in the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV’s clinic directory: www.bashh.org/directory.asp

Most of the infections you need to be aware of are either viral or bacterial. Most bacterial infections, such as gonorrhoea and NSU, can be treated with antibiotics, and so they should clear up pretty quickly. Viral infections are typically more difficult to treat, and some (HIV and herpes) cannot be cured. All treatments for STIs, including antibiotics, work with your body's immune system to fight off infection. If your immune system is weakened, this process will be more difficult, and may take longer or not work at all.

Being infected with one STI can make others easier to catch. If you are HIV positive, other STIs can make it more likely that you’ll pass on HIV if you fuck without condoms.