What is sexual health?
The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines sexual health as "a state of physical, mental and social well-being in relation to sexuality". For the WHO, sexual health is more than just "the absence of disease, dysfunction or infirmity", but rather "a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships". They close their definition by writing that "for sexual health to be attained and maintained, the sexual rights of all persons must be respected, protected and fulfilled".
More commonly, when the term 'sexual health' is used by healthcare providers, it is to refer to the provision of screening, treatment and management programmes for sexually transmitted infections, though the WHO's definition is of course still useful in terms of a more positive overall image of sexual health and our attitudes towards sex and sexuality.
What are sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?
Sexually transmitted infections are infections that are caught or passed on through unprotected sex or genital contact.
What are sexual health conditions?
There are many conditions that can affect the sexual organs, but aren't infections. Sexual health conditions result from urinary tract infections (UTIs), mental health issues or the natural process of ageing. In other words, sexual health conditions impact the sexual organs, but are not necessarily transmitted sexually.
One of the most common STIs, particularly in under 25s. Easily treated if caught early.
A virus passed on through unprotected sex. Visible in blistering or sores on the genitals.
The second most common sexually transmitted infection in the UK. Not dangerous, but highly visible.
The third most commonly diagnosed STI in the UK. Easily treated if caught early, like chlamydia.
A virus that affects the immune system's ability to fight off illness. Can develop into AIDS if left untreated.
Passed through protected or unprotected sex, as lice move between people from skin-to-skin contact.
One of the most serious STIs, causing life changing health problems if left untreated.
What is the difference between STIs and STDs?
STI stands for sexually transmitted infection, and STD stands for sexually transmitted disease. At first, these two terms seem interchangeable, but the "infection" rather than "disease" makes a world of difference. Medically speaking, an 'infection' refers to bacteria, viruses or parasites entering the body. That's all.
An infection can cause symptoms and medical complications, but this is not an essential part of the definition of an infection. A disease, on the other hand, by its very definition will cause symptoms and/or medical complications. An STD is an example of an STI for example, but an STI is not an example of an STD.
The medical term for missed or late periods, occurring for a variety of reasons – not necessarily pregnancy.
Where the head of the penis is inflamed, causing it to become red, painful or to develop a white coating.
Benign prostate enlargement
Common in men over 50, and contrary to popular belief, not related to prostate cancer.
Methods or treatments developed to prevent pregnancy.
Where the bladder becomes inflamed after bacteria enters the urethra, causing pain and discomfort.
When men have difficulty getting or maintaining erections consistently for more than two months.
A natural part of ageing for women, but experienced completely differently from woman to woman.
A common, uncomfortable but not dangerous yeast infection with several treatment options available.
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Caused by bacteria entering the urethra, and resulting in cystitis, urethritis or pyelonephritis.
How do you get an STI or sexual health condition?
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are acquired during vaginal, anal and oral sex, passing from person to person in blood, semen or vaginal and other bodily fluids.
Some STIs or sexual health conditions can be passed through non-sexual means such as via the blood, or even from mother to child during pregnancy. Speak to a doctor if you suspect this to be the case.
Your sexual health and STI questions, answered
Where can you get checked for STIs?
You can get tested for sexually transmitted infections and sexual health conditions at the following:
How long does it take to get STI test results back?
The results of some STI tests are available the very same day, and treatment can start at the same time. For other tests, you may have to wait 1-2 weeks to hear back – if this is the case, your clinician will ask in what format you would like to receive your results. If you test positive for an STI, you will be invited back to the clinic to talk about what your results mean, and what treatment options are available to you.
How are STIs treated?
More often than not, STIs can be cured with antibiotics – though these will only be prescribed if absolutely necessary, due to increasing concerns around antibiotic resistance (read more here). Antibiotic resistance is already responsible for the creation of ‘super gonorrhoea’, so we leave it entirely to our doctors’ discretion whether they choose to prescribe antibiotics or an alternative treatment path for common STIs.
Unfortunately some STIs like HIV cannot be cured, but there are treatments available to make their symptoms more manageable – your clinician can offer advice around the options available to you, and put you in contact with a counsellor if necessary.
No matter what, if you test positively your current and former sexual partners will need to be informed so that they can be tested and treated as well. You can choose to do this yourself, or ask your clinic to do it on your behalf without disclosing your name.