SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS (STI)
Information on all STIs can be found on the German Aidshilfe website.
SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS (STI)
If you are sexually active, you are at risk for sexually transmitted infections (STI). We can advise you on how to reduce this risk and on what you need to do if you have signs of a STI infection.
Get yourself checked. Get treated.
- Pay attention to your body! Consult with a doctor immediately if you notice any changes!
- Even if you have no symptoms, have yourself tested for STI once or twice per year
- Use condoms, gloves and fat-free lubricant.
- Get vaccinated against hepatitis A/B!
- In the case of pre-existing HIV infection, STI are often more severe.
- Be fair! Inform your sex partner!
Abstain from sexual activity until the end of the treatment!
WHY IT IS IMPORTANT TO BE TESTED FOR HIV/STD ON A REGULAR BASIS
Everybody should freely choose whether or not to get tested for HIV and there are many reasons for doing so. If you test positive for HIV and start medication early, the immunodeficiency syndrome AIDS can be prevented.
Also, testing will bring you more clarity and will help you stop brooding and worrying about whether or not you have contracted the virus.
Even if you have been consistent in using a condom during sex, you may have become infected with other sexually-transmitted infections and might be at risk of passing them on to others. Sexually-transmitted infections that go untreated may contribute to HIV infections.
WHEN DOES IT MAKE SENSE TO GET TESTED FOR HIV/STD?
If you have more than 10 different sexual partners in a given year, you should get tested for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections every 6 months or once every year. The same recommendation is true if you have been exposed to a risk and would like to find out if any action is necessary.
As a general rule, testing is always important if you have symptoms such as burning during urination, urethral discharge or nodules or blisters in the genital area.
HIV laboratory testing should be done not earlier than 6 weeks after the risk situation while a rapid HIV test can be done after 12 weeks.
