Anyone sexually active can get an STI
Infections pass to another person through genital contact and vaginal, anal or oral sex. They can also spread through sharing sex toys. Unprotected sex means sex without using a condom and if you don’t use a condom, you’re more at risk of getting an STI.
You don’t need to have lots of sex or sexual partners to get an infection. STIs include: Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Syphilis, HIV and Hepatitis A, B & C. The best way to protect yourself from STIs is to use male or female condoms every time you have sex. For some STIs, we offer vaccinations or PrEP for those at risk.
Not everyone with an STI has symptoms. If you’re concerned, it best to get tested. Most STIs can be treated. It’s best to treat as soon as possible to avoid complications.
For help understanding your HIV self-test or if your test shows a ‘reactive’ result, follow our advice here
Other support
Home STI test – Order an STI test online and take your test at home
NHS Hepatitis C test – Get a free home test for hepatitis C
THT Direct – open every day 10am-6pm Monday to Friday and 10am-1pm Saturday and Sunday: 0808 8021221
LGBT+ Switchboard – open every day including weekends 10am-10pm: 0300 3300630
