Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

With any suspected STI you must consult your doctor or nearest Genito-Urinary Medicine (GUM) clinic for it to be correctly diagnosed and treated. Any sexual partners you have also need to be treated.

If you would rather be examined by a doctor of your own sex you can ask to see one. Don't be embarrassed about having an infection. Doctors are used to treating them and this is what GUM clinics are for.

Remember there is no 'type of person' who gets a sexually transmitted infection. We are all equally at risk unless we practice safe sex.

Symptoms of these conditions vary and can be more obvious in some people than others. If you have any of the following symptoms, don't ignore them but see your doctor or make an appointment at your nearest GUM clinic:
? Itching, soreness and redness around the vagina, vulva or anus
? Small fluid filled blisters or warts in the genital area
? A thick white vaginal discharge that resembles cottage cheese
? Yellow or white discharge oozing from the tip of your penis
? Pain when you urinate or have sex
? A grey, watery discharge that has a strong fishy smell. This is especially noticeable after sex
? Any other unusual discharge or discomfort

It is also worthwhile to point out that sometimes there will be no obvious symptoms - if you have had unprotected sex you should get yourself checked out.

If you're unsure about getting a test for an STI, make sure you talk it over with someone and get some support. For testing contact the Milne Centre GUM Clinic (clinics 1 and 15) based at the Bristol Royal Infirmary (BRI) on 0117 928 2580 to book an appointment or 0117 928 3011 for advice. You can keep your identity anonymous, your visit will be treated completely confidentially and the service is free.

You can also attend the Contraception & Sexual Health Clinic within The Old School Surgery, Fishponds - walk in sessions on Friday mornings from 10am. They also provide free condoms.

How to protect yourself and others...
Have safer sex - this means sex without exchanging blood, semen or vaginal fluids.

If you're going to have anal or vaginal sex, use a condom. If you're having anal sex make sure that the condom is strong enough.

For free and confidential advice on all sexual infections: Call the National AIDS 24 hour help-line (0800 567 123), speak to your Doctor or contact the Brook Advisory Centre (0117 929 0090).

The Advice Centre has free condoms, so don't be embarrassed - pop in and get one or two!