Bacteria are microscopic one-celled organisms that live everywhere. Some are dangerous because they cause infection. Others are helpful.
How it is spread:
Through unprotected oral, anal, or vaginal sex.
Infected mothers can infect their baby during birth.
Symptoms:
Most people have no symptoms. People who do have symptoms might experience:
- Unusual discharge from vagina, penis, or anus
- Burning sensation when peeing
- Stomach or lower back pain (females)
- Painful testicles (males)
Test:
Urine or Swab
Treatment:
Can cure with medication.
Risks if no treatment:
- Infertility (no babies)
- Pain
- Increases your risk to get other STIs if exposed to them
Prevention:
- Use a condom and/or dental dam every time you have oral, anal, or vaginal sex.
- Get tested at your local health centre at least once a year if you’re sexually active under age 30
- Get tested at your local health centre every 3-6 months if you or your sexual partners have more than one partner.
How it is spread:
Through unprotected oral, anal, or vaginal sex.
Infected mothers can infect their baby during birth.
Symptoms:
Most people have no symptoms. People who do have symptoms might experience:
- Unusual discharge from vagina, penis, or anus
- Burning sensation when peeing
- Stomach or lower back pain (females)
- Painful testicles (males)
Test:
Urine or Swab
Treatment:
Can cure with medication.
Risks if no treatment:
- Infertility (no babies)
- Pain
- Increases your risk to get other STIs if exposed to them
Prevention:
- Use a condom and/or dental dam every time you have oral, anal, or vaginal sex.
- Get tested at your local health centre at least once a year if you’re sexually active under age 30
- Get tested at your local health centre every 3-6 months if you or your sexual partners have more than one partner.
How it is spread:
Through unprotected oral, anal, or vaginal sex.
Infected mothers can infect their baby during birth.
Symptoms:
Most people do not have or notice the symptoms. People with syphilis might experience:
1st stage
- Open sores (painless)
2nd stage
- Flu-like symptoms (fever, muscle pain)
- Body rash
3rd stage
- Major damage to eyes, ears, heart
Test:
Blood
Treatment:
Can cure with antibiotics.
Risks if no treatment:
- Blindness
- Brain damage
- Heart damage
- Increases your risk to get other STIs if exposed to them
- Death
- Babies born to infected mothers can be really sick or die
Prevention:
- Use a condom and/or dental dam every time you have oral, anal, or vaginal sex.
- Get tested at your local health centre at least once a year if you’re sexually active under age 30
- Get tested at your local health centre every 3-6 months if you or your sexual partners have more than one partner.