Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD)

In the UK, STIs have been rising continually since the 1990s. Between 2004 and 2005, the Health Protection Agency (HPA) reported a 3% increase in the number of diagnosed STIs, with a total of 790,387 cases. The biggest increase was in the number of confirmed diagnoses of syphilis which rose by a massive 23%, to a total of 2,807 cases. There were also increases in positive diagnoses of Chlamydia, genital warts, and herpes.

To some extent, the increase in the number of diagnosed cases of STIs is due to a greater awareness of the problem, more reliable diagnostic techniques, and an increase in the number of sexual health clinics carrying out tests. The highest increase in STIs has been among the 16 to 24 age group which is a worrying trend.

 

During sexual contact infections can be passed from one person to another. These are known as sexually transmitted infections (or sexually transmitted diseases). Anyone who is having sex can get a sexually transmitted infection from an infected partner if they do not use any protection.

  • Many sexually transmitted infections have no obvious symptoms of illness, so you could have an infection and not know it.
  • Sexually transmitted infections occur frequently in both men and women.
  • Many sexually transmitted infections are curable and all are preventable.
  • Delaying treatment could mean that the infection gets worse and other problems could occur.
  • A mother can pass on an untreated infection to her child during pregnancy and birth.
  • All sexually transmitted infections are helped by treatment. Many can be completed cured.

Most sexually transmitted diseases can be cured if they are diagnosed and treated in their early stages. There are many types of sexually transmitted infection the most common diseases are described below.

 

They can be passed on during vaginal, anal and oral sexual intercourse, as well as through genital contact with an infected partner. Some of these infections are very serious. For example, HIV is the virus which causes AIDS. Hepatitis B can cause liver problems such as cirrhosis (scarring) or liver cancer. Syphilis can cause permanent damage to the heart, brain and nervous system if left untreated.


Other infections are occasionally, but not always, spread through sexual contact. These include thrush, bacterial vaginosis and cystitis.


How are sexual infections spread?

Sexually transmitted infections are usually spread when infected blood, semen or vaginal fluid come into contact with another person during sex. But some infections (such as HIV and hepatitis B and C) can be spread through infected blood, when needles and other injecting equipment are shared.

Different infections can be passed on to either partner through different sexual activities:

Chlamydia, NSU, gonorrhoea, hepatitis B and HIV infections are usually spread through penetrative vaginal, anal or oral sex (when the penis enters the vagina, anus or mouth).
TV is spread by vaginal sex, and though men may carry it, they usually do not have any symptoms. It can be passed on by sex between women if fluid from the vagina is exchanged - by sharing sex toys, for example.


Genital warts, herpes and syphilis can be spread through body contact between partners' genital areas. Because these infections can occur on or in the mouth, they can also be spread by oral sex when someone uses their mouth or tongue to stimulate their partner's genitals.


Scabies, crabs and other infestations can be spread by any of these sexual practices and also by skin contact.
 

How do I know if I have a Sexually Transmitted Infection?
People who have a sexually transmitted infection sometimes get symptoms to show that something is wrong. But often they don't.

Some warning signs to look for are:

An unusually thick or watery, cloudy or smelly discharge from the vagina.
A discharge from the penis.
Itching, rashes, sores, blisters or pain in the genital area.
A pain or burning sensation when you pass urine.
Urinating more than usual.
Pain during sex.

But remember:

Sometimes there are no symptoms.
Symptoms may not appear for months.
Symptoms may disappear when there is still infection.
You can have more than one sexually transmitted infection at a time.

Untreated sexually transmitted infections can cause you and your partner serious and permanent damage. Get yourself checked out straight away if you have any of the symptoms listed above or if you think your current or a recent partner has an infection.

A check-up at Clinic Express is a good idea if you have a new partner, or if either of you has more than one sexual partner.

 

Clinic Express provides rapid same day screening and treatment for numerous sexually transmitted infections and diseases.


Patents can walk in and be seen without appointment, and often treated the same day with some results available within the hour.


Clinic Express caters for men and women who want immediate treatment and confidential results.


THERE IS NO NEED TO REGISTER OR BRING ANY DOCUMENTS WITH YOU.
PATIENTS MAY WALK IN WITHOUT AN APPOINTMENT.