Chlamydia
What is chlamydia?
Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection caused by
bacteria. It is very common, especially among teenagers and young adults.
Chlamydia can cause serious health problems and must be treated.
How do you get chlamydia?
You can get chlamydia if you have unprotected oral sex,
vaginal sex, or anal sex with a person who already has the infection. A
pregnant woman can also pass it on to her baby while she is giving birth.
How can you tell if you have chlamydia?
Many people who have chlamydia do not have any signs that
tell them they have a sexually transmitted infection. If a man gets chlamydia
in the urethra, the tube which carries urine and semen, he may or may not
get symptoms. About 50% of men and about 70% of women do not get any symptoms
of chlamydia. You can pass on chlamydia without even knowing that you have
it.
If you have chlamydia, you might notice the following
symptoms:
Women:
- Strange discharge from your vagina.
- Itchy vagina
- A little bit of bleeding even when it is not time
for your period.
- Bleeding during or after you have vaginal sex.
- Pain in your lower abdomen.
- Pain when you urinate.
Men:
- Needing to urinate a lot.
- A feeling of burning when you urinate.
- Watery discharge coming out of your penis.
- Burning or itching around the hole of your penis.
- Pain in your testicles.
It is important to treat chlamydia because it can lead
to serious health problems. If left untreated, it can spread through your
reproductive organs. A man could become sterile if he is not treated. If
a woman doesn’t know she has chlamydia, it can spread into her uterus
and Fallopian tubes. This is called Pelvic Inflammatory Disease or PID.
Scar tissue from the infection may block the tubes, making it impossible
for sperm to reach an egg and fertilize it. She could have great difficulty
getting pregnant. If a sperm did reach an egg and fertilized it, the embryo
would start growing in the tube. This is called an ectopic or tubal pregnancy
and is very dangerous. If the tube burst, her life could be in danger and
this can lead to a medical emergency.
How do you get tested for chlamydia?
If a partner tells you he or she has been diagnosed with
chlamydia or if you have any of the symptoms, see your doctor or go to
a clinic to get examined and treated. For women, the doctor or nurse will
check for infection by taking a swab of the cervix, the opening to the
uterus. For men, the doctor or nurse will swab the urethra, the opening
of the penis. It is important to tell your doctor if you’ve had oral
or anal sex so that they can test the throat and anus for infection.
How is chlamydia treated?
Chlamydia can be cured with antibiotics. Be sure to tell
your sexual partner(s) from the past three months that you have chlamydia
as they need to be treated too. If your partner has it and your results
are negative, you should still get antibiotics.
It is important to take your medication as directed. If
you engage in sexual activity while infected, it is best to use condoms
until you and your partner(s) are clear of all infections.
Do you need a follow-up test?
Yes. You should have a follow up test. Women should get
this test done after they have finished all of the antibiotic pills and
have had one period. Men should get another test done a month after finishing
the antibiotics.
How do you know when you can no longer pass the infection?
The only way to be sure that you are cured and can no longer
pass on the infection is to do the follow up test after you have taken
all of the antibiotic pills. If the test is negative, you no longer have
chlamydia, and cannot pass it to your partners.
It is important to use condoms or a latex barrier with
your sexual partner(s) to decrease the risk of getting a sexually transmitted
infection, such as chlamydia.
Gardnerella
What is gardnerella?
Gardnerella is the name of a bacteria that normally, it
grows in small amounts in a woman’s vagina and rectum. If too much
gardnerella grows, it may cause a different vaginal discharge with a strange
smell. This condition is also commonly referred to as Bacterial Vaginosis
or BV.
This type of infection, like a yeast infection, isn’t
generally sexually transmitted. Women who have not had sexual intercourse
can also get this overgrowth of bacteria. Gardnerella infections can be
uncomfortable, but they are not harmful.
How can you tell if you have a gardnerella infection?
If you have a gardnerella infection, you might notice
the following symptoms:
Women:
- Discharge from your vagina that is white or grey.
- Discharge from your vagina that smells like fish,
especially noticeable after sex.
Men:
How do you get tested for a gardnerella infection?
A doctor or nurse can test you by looking at the discharge
from your vagina or by taking a swab from your vagina. Although it can
be sexually transmitted, men are not usually tested for gardnerella infections
unless they develop symptoms, which is rare.
How is a gardnerella infection treated?
Gardnerella in your vagina is not harmful. You only need
to treat a gardnerella infection if the symptoms are bothering you. Women
can be treated with prescription drugs such as flagyl or clindamycin. The
infection can be treated by taking a medication by mouth, or by inserting
a medicated cream into the vagina. It is especially important for pregnant
women with BV to be treated.
Lactobacillus (the bacteria found in yogurt) can help control
the symptoms. You can put one or two yogurt capsules in your vagina before
bedtime for one week. You can buy these lactobacillus yogurt capsules at
the health food store. You should keep them in the fridge.
Men are not usually treated for gardnerella.
Do you need a follow-up test?
If you feel better, you don’t need another test.
How do you prevent a gardnerella infection?
- Avoid douching.
- Wear loose fitting pants.
- Always wipe yourself from front to back after going
to the bathroom.
- Change out of your wet bathing suit or sweaty exercise
clothes as soon as possible.
- Don't use deodorant tampons or pads, perfumed soaps,
bath oils, or feminine hygiene sprays.
- Wear cotton underwear during the day. It’s better
not to wear underwear when you sleep.
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Gonorrhea
What is gonorrhea?
Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by
bacteria. Gonorrhea can cause serious health problems and must be treated.
Gonorrhea can infect the penis, rectum, throat, eyes, or cervix. The cervix
is the opening into the uterus. The rectum is the lower part of your intestines.
How do you get gonorrhea?
You get gonorrhea if you have unprotected oral sex, vaginal
sex, or anal sex with a person who already has the infection. A pregnant
woman can also pass it to her baby while she is giving birth.
How can you tell if you have gonorrhea?
Some people who have gonorrhea do not have any signs or
symptoms that tell them they have a sexually transmitted infection. You
can pass on gonorrhea without even knowing that you have it. You may have
gonorrhea if, a few days after having unprotected sex, you notice:
Women:
- Sore throat after unprotected oral sex.
- Discharge from the anus after unprotected anal sex
- Strange or unusual discharge from your vagina.
- Itchy, red, or swollen vagina.
- Pain when you urinate.
- Pain in your lower abdomen.
- Pain when you have vaginal intercourse.
Men:
- Sore throat after unprotected oral sex.
- Pain when you urinate.
- Discharge from your penis that is thick, white, and
yellow.
It is important to treat gonorrhea because it can lead
to serious health problems. If left untreated, it can spread through your
reproductive organs. A man could become sterile if he is not treated. If
a woman doesn’t know she has gonorrhea, it can spread into her uterus
and Fallopian tubes. This is called Pelvic Inflammatory Disease or PID.
Scar tissue from the infection may block the tubes, making it impossible
for sperm to reach an egg and fertilize it. She could have great difficulty
getting pregnant. If a sperm did reach an egg and fertilized it, the embryo
would start growing in the tube. This is called an ectopic or tubal pregnancy
and is very dangerous. If the tube burst, her life could be in danger and
this can lead to a medical emergency.
How do you get tested for gonorrhea?
If a partner tells you he or she has been diagnosed with
gonorrhea or if you have any of the symptoms, see your doctor or go to
a clinic to get examined and treated. For women, the doctor or nurse will
check for infection by taking a swab of the cervix. For men, the doctor
or nurse will swab the urethra, the opening of the penis. It is important
to tell your doctor if you’ve had oral or anal sex so that they can
test the throat and anus for infection.
How is gonorrhea treated?
Gonorrhea can be cured with antibiotics. You should tell
your sexual partner(s) from the past three months that you have gonorrhea
as they need to get treated too. A lot of people who have gonorrhea also
have the STI called chlamydia. You and your partner(s) may also need to
be treated for chlamydia.
It is important to take your medication as directed
and to use condoms until you and your partner(s) are clear of all infections.
Do you need a follow-up test?
Yes. You should have another test one week after
finishing your antibiotics. Women should also get a second follow-up
test after they’ve finished their antibiotics and had one period.
How do you know the infection is gone?
After you have taken the medication, you should have
another test to make sure the infection is gone. If the follow up test
is negative, you no longer have the infection, and you cannot pass it
on.
It is important to use condoms or a latex barrier
with sexual partners to decrease the risk of getting a sexually transmitted
infection, such as gonorrhea.
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Hepatitis B
What is Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is a virus that causes inflammation and serious
infection of the liver. Some people get symptoms while others do not. So
far, researchers have identified several types of hepatitis: A,B,C,D,E,F
and G.
How do you get Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is very contagious. You can get Hepatitis B
from an infected person through contact with body fluids such as their
blood, semen, urine, vaginal fluids and saliva. The virus can be passed
on through vaginal sex, oral sex, or anal sex, with a person who has the
infection. Hepatitis B can actually survive on objects for up to a week
if they are in body fluids like blood. Sharing personal items, like toothbrushes
and razors, or by sharing needles or tattoo equipment, can also pass on
Hepatitis B. About 95% of chronically infected mothers pass Hepatitis B
on to their baby during labour and delivery. Fortunately, infants can be
protected at birth with immunization. The average incubation period for
hepatitis B is 60-180 days.
How do you tell if you have Hepatitis B?
Almost half of the people who have Hepatitis B don’t
even know that they have it. They can still pass the virus on without knowing
it.
Hepatitis B can cause liver cell damage, leading to scarring,
also known as cirrhosis of the liver, and liver cancer. Alcohol would make
it worse. Ninety per cent of teens and adults who get hepatitis B recover;
9% carry the virus for life and are able to transmit it; about 5% will
have a chronic illness; one per cent will not survive the first attack.
If you have Hepatitis B, you might notice the following
symptoms:
- You feel tired or have a fever.
- You have pain in your abdomen.
- Your urine or stool is a strange colour.
- Your skin is yellow (jaundice).
- You are not very hungry.
- You feel like throwing up.
How do you get tested for Hepatitis B?
You can get a special blood test.
How is Hepatitis B prevented and treated?
There is no cure for Hepatitis B but anti-viral medication
may help to treat the infection. If you know you’ve been exposed
to Hepatitis B, you can get immune globulin within 2 weeks. If you have
Hepatitis B, you might need to change the way you eat and also stop drinking
alcohol. Most people with Hepatitis B do get better. When they are better,
they do not pass the virus on to others.
A small number of people, called carriers, don’t
get better. They may still be able to pass on the virus to others. They
may develop serious health problems related to their liver.
You can protect yourself against Hepatitis B by getting
immunized. A vaccine is available that is given by needle. It takes three
needles and several months before you are protected. If you are at risk
for getting Hepatitis B, you and your partner(s) should ask a doctor or
a nurse for these needles. You should consider immunization especially
if you work with body fluids like blood.
Don’t share needles, razors, toothbrushes or nail
clippers with anyone who is infected. Use gloves and bleach to clean up
blood spills.
Do you need a follow-up test?
Yes. If you have Hepatitis B, the doctor or nurse will
give you another blood test to see if you are still able to pass the infection
on to other people.
It is important to use condoms or a latex barrier with
sexual partners to decrease the risk of getting sexually transmitted infections
including hepatitis B.
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Hepatitis C
What is Hepatitis C?
Hepatitis C is one of several viruses which can cause an
infection of the liver. It is different from Hepatitis A and Hepatitis
B. Some people who get Hepatitis C don’t even know they have it and
get better. Some people get symptoms while others do not. So far, researchers
have identified several types of Hepatitis: A,B,C,D,E,F and G.
How do you get Hepatitis C?
Hepatitis C is usually transmitted by contact with infected
blood. The most common way a person can be infected by Hepatitis C is by
sharing infected needles. Many people also became infected through infected
blood transfusions before a test became available for the blood supply
in 1992. Hepatitis C is rarely transmitted through sexual contact. It would
be more likely to happen if a partner got a small cut during intercourse,
if a woman had sex during her period or if a person already had HIV.
Today, evidence suggests that the infection rarely spreads
from an infected mother to her child during pregnancy
How do you tell if you have Hepatitis C?
Only 5 to 10% of people who are infected by Hepatitis C
develop the symptoms listed below. Therefore many people do not know that
they have been infected with the virus. Unfortunately 60-85% of people
who have Hepatitis C will have chronic infection. Twenty percent of these
people will develop scarring of the liver or cirrhosis. Twenty percent
of the people with cirrhosis will develop liver cancer may years later.
If you have Hepatitis C, you might notice the following
symptoms:
- You feel tired or have a fever.
- You have pain in your abdomen.
- Your urine or stool is a strange colour.
- Your skin is yellow (jaundice).
- Loss of appetite
- You feel like throwing up.
Is there a test for Hepatitis C?
Yes. There is a blood test which detects whether you have
the antibody against Hepatitis C. The presence of the antibody suggests
that you have been infected with Hepatitis C, but the test cannot tell
you when this might have happened.
Is there a vaccine against Hepatitis C?
No. There is no cure and no vaccine available at this time.
Vaccination against Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B will not protect you against
Hepatitis C.
How can I protect myself against Hepatitis C?
Since the virus is mainly spread by infected needles, it
is important not to share needles and related equipment, razors, toothbrushes
or nail clippers with anyone infected. Use gloves and bleach to clean up
blood spills.
Are there any treatments for Hepatitis C?
There are no medicines which will cure Hepatitis C. However,
a few studies suggest that a drug called Interferon may reduce the risk
of developing chronic liver disease. About 20% of people infected with
Hepatitis C respond well to interferon treatment and anti-viral medication.
Other medicines are also being studied.
It is important to use condoms or a latex barrier with
your sexual partners to decrease the risk of getting a sexually transmitted
infection such as Hepatitis C.
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Herpes
What is herpes?
Herpes is an infection caused by a virus from the chickenpox
family of viruses. The virus is called herpes simplex virus or HSV. There
are two types of herpes, HSV-1 and HSV-2. They can both cause sores around
the mouth, which are commonly referred to as cold sores. They can also
cause sores on the genitals, known as genital herpes.
How do you get herpes?
- You may get (or pass) herpes through unprotected oral,
vaginal or anal sex.
- You may get it by kissing someone who has a cold sore.
- You may get herpes in your genital area if you have
oral sex with someone who has cold sores on their mouth.
- You may get herpes in your mouth if you have oral
sex with someone who has sores on their genitals.
- You may also get herpes in your eyes, mouth, and genitals
by touching the sores.
- In most cases, people with herpes pass on the virus
when they have sores on their mouth or genitals that are easy to see,
but sometimes they can pass on the virus when their are no sores.
- A pregnant woman who has active blisters can pass
the virus to her baby when she is giving birth. She should tell her doctor
about the infection. A Caesarean Section will prevent passing the infection
on to the baby.
- Sometimes people may not know they have herpes, but
can pass it on.
How can you tell if you have herpes?
You will most likely feel itching or tingling on your skin. Then, you will
get blisters full of water. You will get a painful sore when the blisters break.
This sore forms a scab. The blisters will heal by itself in 10 days to two
weeks. Herpes is especially contagious when the blisters are active and have
not yet healed. After the sores have gone away, HSV-2 rests in nerves by the
spine. They do not do any damage there.
When you first get herpes, it may be accompanied by flu
like symptoms such as fever and chills, which may last for several weeks.
Can herpes keep coming back?
Yes. The first time you get herpes is usually the worst.
Most people get it more than once, but it is milder after the first time.
The sores usually return in the same place each time you have an outbreak.
You might get herpes again because:
- You are tired or under stress.
- You are ill.
- You have a fever.
- You got too much sun.
- You have your period.
- You are pregnant.
- Sometimes for no apparent reason
If you have herpes, you have to rest, eat well, and exercise.
How do you get tested for herpes?
If you notice sores on your genitals, see your doctor or
go to a clinic right away. A doctor or nurse will check the sores and may
take a swab to confirm it is herpes. Usually, blood tests are not useful
in checking for herpes.
How is herpes treated?
Although there is no cure for herpes, treatments are available.
Acyclovir is a prescription drug that may reduce the length of the herpes
outbreak. This medication will also reduce the pain. A doctor can also
prescribe another medication for the pain.
When you have a herpes outbreak:
- Keep the area clean.
- Wear cotton underwear.
- Wear loose fitting clothes.
- After urinating, wash your genital area with cool
water.
- If it hurts when you urinate, sit in a tub of warm
water to urinate, or pour water over the area.
- You might feel better if you put wet tea bags on the
sores
How can you prevent passing on the virus?
- Try not to have oral sex when you have cold sores
around the mouth.
- You should not have sex if you have an outbreak of
genital herpes. Wait until the sores are gone.
- It is rare, but you can pass on the herpes virus even
when you don’t have sores.
It is important to use condoms or a latex barrier with
sexual partners to decrease risk of getting sexually transmitted infections
including herpes.
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HIV / AIDS
What are HIV and AIDS?
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is caused by
the Human Immunodeficiency Virus, commonly referred to as HIV. It is a
viral infection that attacks the immune system.
How do you get HIV?
HIV can go directly into the body, such as when people
share needles, or it can attach itself to white blood cells. Our bodies
produce white bloods cells when there is an infection. For example, if
a person has an untreated STI, a lot of white blood cells are present at
the site of the infection. The virus can attach itself to these white blood
cells and enter the bloodstream that way. This could happen in the mucous
membranes of the vagina, the anus, the urethra or the mouth.
You can get HIV by:
- Having unprotected vaginal sex or anal sex with a
person who already has the infection.
- It is also possible, but not common, to get HIV from
unprotected oral sex.
- Sharing needles infected with HIV with an infected
person.
- If you received a blood transfusion before 1985.
How can you tell if you have HIV?
When a person gets HIV, they generally don’t get
sick right away. If they are healthy and have a good immune system, they
may not have any idea that they are infected for 10 to 15 years unless
they get tested.
Since HIV attacks the immune system, an infected person
will eventually get sick with illnesses that their immune system cannot
fight. This stage of infection is referred to as AIDS.
How do you get tested for HIV?
If you think you may have HIV, see a doctor or go to a
clinic. You can have tests done. Since it takes about 3 months after exposure
for antibodies to the virus to show up in your blood, you may have to wait
to be tested.
How is HIV treated?
There is no cure for HIV. If your test results are positive,
the doctor or clinic will refer you to a Specialist who knows a lot about
HIV. He or she will offer you medication and explain how to keep your immune
system healthy. A person infected with HIV who takes special medication
and maintains a healthy immune system can live for many years. Many people
have been living with HIV for 20 years or more.
How can you prevent passing on HIV?
Your doctor or Health Care provider will discuss ways of
not passing the virus with you. If you engage in sexual activities, be
sure to use condoms or a latex barrier on every occasion.
A pregnant woman with HIV can take medication which will
reduce the chance of her baby getting the virus. She would be advised to
not breastfeed her baby. Women should consider getting tested for HIV before
starting a pregnancy.
It is important to use condoms or a latex barrier
with sexual partners to decrease risk of getting sexually transmitted
infections including HIV and AIDS.
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Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and Genital Warts
What is HPV?
HPV is short for a virus that is called Human Papilloma Virus. There are about
120 different types of HPV which can infect several parts of the body. Some
HPV types are sexually transmitted and causes visible genital warts. Genital
warts may grow on your penis, anus, or inside or outside the vagina.
How do you get HPV?
You can get HPV if you have unprotected oral sex, vaginal
sex, or anal sex with a person who already has the virus. An infected partner
may not have visible warts but can still spread the virus.
How can you tell if you have HPV?
- Some people get HPV and can pass the virus without
even knowing they have it.
- HPV can stay in the body for many years before it
is noticed. It is not unusual for a person to suddenly get warts without
knowing from whom they got them.
- If you find warts on your genitals, they may look
like small, hard spots, or like cauliflower. Some warts are very hard
to see. A doctor or nurse can find them using a vinegar solution.
How do you get tested for HPV?
There is no special test for HPV. A doctor or nurse can
tell if you have genital warts by looking at them.
The HPV types that infect the genitals causing visible
warts are generally not dangerous and can be removed in a doctor’s
office. Certain other types of HPV can be dangerous and can cause changes
to a woman’s cervix. If these changes aren’t treated, they
may lead to cancer of the cervix. For women, a doctor or nurse can do a
simple test called a PAP test to check your cervix. They will gently take
some cells from your cervix. If you are having sex, it is important to
have a PAP test once a year. If you have HPV, you might need PAP tests
more often.
How is HPV treated?
Right now, there is no cure for HPV. Medical experts
think that HPV may stay in your body.
Genital warts are not bad for your health and they don’t have to be taken
off. If you want the warts taken off, there are many different ways a doctor
or nurse can do this:
They can put a liquid directly on the warts. Usually it has to be done many
times before the warts go away.
- They can freeze the warts with dry ice.
- They can burn the warts.
- They can remove the warts surgically.
If your PAP test shows that HPV has caused changes to your
cervix, you may be sent to a special doctor for treatment.
How can you prevent spreading the virus to your partner(s)?
There is no cure for HPV, so you may always have this virus in your body. Even
after you have been treated for warts, you could pass HPV on to the people
you have sex with. That’s why it is so important to talk to your partner(s)
before you start having vaginal or anal intercourse. It might be hard to talk
about HPV, but it is important that both you and your partner(s) know the risks.
Latex condoms and a spermicide provide good protection
and can lower your chances of passing on HPV. However, the parts that are
not covered, including the upper thighs, the skin between the vagina and
anus, the skin of the scrotum, or the skin between the scrotum and the
anus, can become infected.
For women engaging in sexual intercourse, Pap smears are
the most important protection.
It is important to use condoms or a latex barrier to decrease
the risk of getting a sexually transmitted infection such as HPV.
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Infestations (Pubic Lice and Scabies)
What are pubic lice & scabies?
Pubic lice are commonly known as “crabs”.
They are usually found around the genitals in pubic hair. Lice look like
tiny, grey or brownish red crabs. Lice live by feeding on human blood.
They lay their eggs, called nits, at the base of the hair. Scabies are
caused by mites that push under the skin to lay their eggs. They are
usually found between the fingers, around the genitals, on the wrists,
buttocks, or under the arms.
How do you get pubic lice or scabies?
You get pubic lice or scabies by closely touching someone
who has the infection, or if you share a bed with someone who has the infection.
- Lice can live for up to two days away from the body.
You can get them from infested sheets, towels, and toilet seats.
How can you tell if you have pubic lice or scabies?
If you have pubic lice you may feel itching in the genital
area. You may see tiny blood spots on your underwear. You may also see
blue spots on the skin of your pubic area or thighs. You might see the
pubic lice or eggs.
If you have scabies, you might get a rash on any part of
your body, but you will usually find them between fingers and toes.
How do you get tested for pubic lice or scabies?
You can usually tell if you have pubic lice by finding
the adult lice or eggs on the hair. If it moves, it is pubic lice. Scabies,
however, are harder to recognize. If you think you may have scabies, you
should be checked by a doctor or nurse.
How are pubic lice & scabies treated?
You can go to the drug store and they will give you something
to treat pubic lice and scabies. You can use R&C Shampoo or Kwellada.
Your partner(s), friends, and family may also have lice or scabies. They
may have to be treated too. Infants, women who are pregnant, and women
who are breast feeding should ask for a special treatment.
- Wash all bed linen.
- You can store quilts and blankets for two weeks if
you cannot wash them.
- Expose them to freezing temperature. The cold will
kill the lice or scabies.
- You might want to get a spray at the drugstore to
clean everything that has been infested with lice or scabies.
Do you need a follow-up test?
The treatment usually works. You may need to try the treatment
again after one week. You may still feel the itching after you are cured.
Don’t use the treatment a third time. If you still feel that you
have lice or scabies, talk to a doctor or nurse.
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Syphilis
What is syphilis?
Syphilis is an infection that is caused by bacteria. Syphilis
is usually sexually transmitted from one person to another. Though it is
rarely fatal, it can cause serious health problems and must be treated.
How do you get syphilis?
You can get syphilis if you have oral sex, vaginal sex,
or anal sex with a person who already has the infection. Syphilis infects
the blood, so intravenous drug users are also at risk if they share needles.
Syphilis can cause sores around the genitals and mouth, and a rash on the
skin. The infection can be passed on through these sores and the rash.
Some people with syphilis may have no sores or rash, but can still pass
on the infection. A pregnant woman with syphilis can pass on the infection
to her baby before it is born.
How can you tell if you have syphilis?
There are three stages of the disease. You may not have
any symptoms but still get very sick.
- In the first stage, which begins in the first ten
days to three months after infection, there may be no signs or symptoms.
Or, a person may develop a painless sore, called a chancre (pronounced “shanker”)
in the area where they came in contact with the disease. The chancre
could appear on the genitals, anus, lips or mouth. The chancre will heal
even if it is not treated. However, the disease is already in the bloodstream.
- In the second stage, usually four to ten weeks after
the chancre appears, a rash may appear on the palms of the hands, soles
of the feet, or any other part of the body. Sometimes, there is patchy
hair loss, muscle and joint pain, fever, or swollen glands. These will
also disappear without treatment.
- Late stage syphilis happens one year later. There
are usually no symptoms. Untreated syphilis may damage the nervous system,
the heart and the brain. It is also easier to get HIV when a person has
untreated syphilis. Babies born to mothers with syphilis may be stillborn
or have birth defects. All pregnant women are tested for syphilis as
part of their prenatal care.
How do you get tested for syphilis?
You can get a special blood test.
How is syphilis treated?
You should be treated for syphilis as soon as you find
out that you have it. Syphilis can be cured with antibiotics, usually penicillin.
You will get one or more injections of penicillin, each a week apart. It
is important to go each week for your injection until the treatment is
finished. If you are allergic to penicillin, you will be given another
antibiotic. With primary stage syphilis, any sexual partner(s) from the
past three months must also be treated. You should also inform all other
sexual partners that you have syphilis as they too need to get treated.
If you engage in sexual activity while infected with syphilis,
it is important to use condoms until you and your partner(s) are clear
of all infections.
Do you need a follow-up test?
Yes. The doctor or nurse will do a few blood tests to make
sure that the infection is gone.
How do you prevent passing the infection on to your
partner(s)?
Once you have had a negative follow up test, you can no
longer pass on the infection, and you are cured. Until you have a negative
follow up test, you may be able to pass on the infection.
It is important to use condoms or a latex barrier
with you sexual partners to decrease the risk of getting a sexually transmitted
infection, such as syphilis.
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Trichomoniasis
What is trichomoniasis?
Trichomoniasis is an infection caused by a one-celled parasite,
which is neither bacteria nor a virus. Trichomoniasis is usually sexually
transmitted from one person to another. Non-sexual transmission is also
possible, but is rare. Trichomoniasis must be treated.
How do you get trichomoniasis?
You can get trichomoniasis if you have unprotected vaginal
sex with a person who already has the infection. The parasite can live
on wet objects for a few hours, so it can also be passed on through infected
towels, washcloths, toilet seats, and saunas.
How can you tell if you have trichomoniasis?
Generally, trichomoniasis is not considered to be dangerous,
however, it may be associated with Pelvic Inflammatory Disease in Women.
It may cause a baby to be born prematurely. On rare occasions, it may cause
infertility in men. Usually, it is just uncomfortable and the odour can
be embarrassing.
If you have trichomoniasis, you might notice the following
symptoms:
Women:
- Discharge from your vagina that is green or yellow.
- Discharge from your vagina that smells like fish,
especially after sex.
- Itching, red, or sore vagina.
- Pain when you have vaginal intercourse.
- Pain when you urinate.
Men:
- A small amount of clear discharge from your penis.
- Burning or itching around the opening of your penis.
- Burning feeling in your penis after having sex.
- Pain when you urinate.
- You may not have symptoms but still have the infection
How do you get tested for trichomoniasis?
If a partner tells you he or she has been diagnosed with
trichomoniasis or if you have any of the symptoms, see your doctor or go
to a clinic to get examined and treated.
For women, the doctor or nurse may check for infection
by looking at the discharge from the vagina or by taking a swab of the
discharge. Trichomoniasis can sometimes be found on a PAP smear.
For men, the doctor or nurse may check for infection by
looking at the discharge from the penis or by taking a swab of the discharge.
How is trichomoniasis treated?
Trichomoniasis is treated with one dose of a drug called
Flagyl, which is prescribed by a doctor.
- Take Flagyl with food or milk.
- Do not drink alcohol for 48 hours before or after
taking the pills. If you do, you might throw up.
- Do not take Flagyl if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
- Do not take Flagyl if you have taken Seldane or Hismanal
in the last month. These medicines are for allergies or hay fever.
You should tell your sexual partner(s) that you have trichomoniasis
as they must also be treated.
Do you need a follow-up test?
Although not mandatory, you should get a follow-up test
one week after you take the Flagyl.
How do you know when you are cured?
Once you and your partner are treated, you should be cured.
An optional follow up test can make sure that the infection is gone.
It is important to use condoms or a latex barrier with
sexual partners to decrease the risk of getting a sexually transmitted
infection, such as trichomoniasis.
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Urinary Tract Infections (UTI's)
What is a UTI?
UTI is short for Urinary Tract Infection. It is an infection
of the bladder and the urethra. The bladder is the sac that holds urine
while the urethra is the tube that carries urine out of the bladder. A
UTI is also called cystitis or a bladder infection. Urinary tract infections
are not sexually transmitted.
How do you get a UTI?
A UTI is usually caused by bacteria from your bowels. The
bacteria in your bowels can get moved to the urethra when you have vaginal
or oral sex or when you wipe yourself with toilet paper.
How can you tell if you have a UTI?
If you have a UTI, you might notice the following symptoms:
- You urinate a lot but only a little bit each time.
- It burns when you urinate.
- You have to urinate suddenly.
- There is blood in your urine.
- Your urine is not clear.
- Your urine smells bad.
If you notice any of these, you should:
- Go to see a doctor.
- Drink a large glass of water every hour.
- Drink cranberry juice, apple juice, or prune juice
without sugar.
- Go to the bathroom often.
- Try not to drink coffee, tea, pop, or alcohol.
How do you get tested for a UTI?
A doctor or nurse can usually tell if you have a UTI by
listening to your symptoms. The doctor may also test your urine.
Men hardly ever get UTI’s. Men who have the same
symptoms may have a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
How is a UTI treated?
Since a UTI can be painful, you will probably get treated
right away. You do not have to wait for the test results. A UTI is treated
with antibiotics. It is important to finish taking all the antibiotics,
even if you feel better. It is important to go see a doctor if you don’t
feel better after taking the antibiotics. Sometimes, the infection spreads
to the kidneys. Go see a doctor right away if you have a fever, upset stomach,
back pain, or if you throw up.
Do you need a follow-up test?
To make sure the infection is gone, you may need another
urine test after you finish all of the antibiotics.
How do you prevent a UTI?
- Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water every day.
- Try not to drink much coffee, tea, pop, or eat chocolate.
- Urinate often so that your bladder is empty.
- Urinate before and after you have sex.
- Wipe from the front to the back after going to the
bathroom.
- Try not to use deodorant tampons or pads, bath oils,
or soap with perfume.
- Do not douche.
- Wear cotton underwear.
- Wear pantyhose that have a cotton crotch.
- Wear loose pants or skirts.
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Yeast
What is yeast?
Yeast is a fungus which normally grows in small amounts
in a woman’s vagina. It also normally lives on the skin without causing
problems. Sometimes, there can be an overgrowth of yeast inside the vagina,
in the mouth, on the penis or around the genitals. If too much yeast grows,
it causes itching and pain. Yeast infections are very common in women.
They can be uncomfortable, but they are not harmful. Usually they are not
sexually transmitted.
What causes an overgrowth of yeast?
Some women get yeast infections because of:
- Stress in their life.
- Eating a lot of foods with sugar or chocolate.
- Taking antibiotics.
- Taking the birth control pill.
- Menstruation.
- Pregnancy.
- Douching.
How can you tell if you have a yeast infection?
If you have a yeast infection you might notice the following
symptoms:
Women:
- Discharge from your vagina that is thick, white and
looks like cottage cheese.
- Itching, swelling, burning, inflammation or red colour
inside and outside your vagina.
- Pain when you have sex.
- Sometimes a yeasty smell
Men:
- Itching, rash, swelling, or red colour on the tip
of your penis.
How do you get tested for a yeast infection?
If you suspect you have a yeast infection or have any of
the symptoms, see your doctor or go to a clinic to get examined and treated.
For women, the doctor or nurse may check for infection
by looking at the discharge from the vagina or by taking a swab of the
discharge.
Men are not usually tested for yeast infections, but can
be tested if they have symptoms.
How is a yeast infection treated?
Yeast in your vagina is not harmful. The itching or pain
will usually go away by itself in a few days. You only need to treat a
yeast infection if the symptoms are bothering you. If you want to treat
it, you can use a home treatment or buy an over the counter medication
at a drug store. You can use these even if you have your period. If your
symptoms do not go away, even after treatment, go to see a doctor. Chronic
yeast infections may be a sign of diabetes. You should see your doctor
if you have recurrent yeast infections.
Home Treatment
- You can put plain yogurt into your vagina before bedtime
for three or four nights.
- Dip a tampon into plain yogurt and then insert it
into your vagina.
- You put one or two yogurt capsules in your vagina
before bedtime for one week. You can buy these lactobacillus yogurt capsules
at a health food store. You should keep them in the fridge.
- You can use a douche once or twice a day until you
feel okay. Do not do this if you are pregnant. Put 2 tablespoons of white
vinegar or lemon juice into 1 litre of warm water and gently pour it
into your vagina.
Over-the-Counter Medication
- At a local drugstore, you can now buy cream or capsules
to put in your vagina or apply to the outside before bedtime. You do
not need a prescription from a doctor. There is also a one dose oral
pill which you can take to clear up the infection. You will need a prescription
from your doctor for this.
Do you need a follow-up test?
If you feel better, you don’t need another test.
How do you prevent a yeast infection?
- Always wipe yourself from front to back after going
to the bathroom.
- Do not use deodorant tampons or pads, perfumed soaps,
bath oils, or feminine hygiene sprays.
- Wear cotton underwear during the day. It’s better
not to wear underwear when you sleep
- Wear loose fitting pants.
- Avoid douching.
- Change out of your wet bathing suit or sweaty exercise
clothes as soon as possible.
- Eat less sugar, chocolate, and artificial sweeteners.
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