STIs, or sexually transmitted infections, are infections transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. They’re caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites.
Many STIs have no symptoms, so regular testing is the only way to know for sure. If symptoms do appear, they may include unusual discharge, sores, pain during urination, or flu-like symptoms.
STI testing typically involves a urine sample, blood test, or swab of the affected area. The Youth-Friendly Centre at OOU provides confidential testing and support.
Follow your healthcare provider’s advice for treatment, complete all prescribed medication, and inform recent partners so they can get tested, too. Many STIs are treatable with medication.
Consistent condom use, limiting sexual partners, regular testing, and vaccinations (such as for HPV) are effective prevention strategies.
Yes, when used correctly, condoms are the only form of protection that reduces the risk of most STIs, including HIV, chlamydia, and gonorrhoea.
Some STIs, like chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and syphilis, can be cured with antibiotics. Viral STIs, like herpes and HIV, aren’t curable but can be managed with medication.
Yes, some STIs, such as herpes, gonorrhoea, and syphilis, can be transmitted through oral sex. Using a condom or dental dam can reduce this risk.
If you’re sexually active, testing every 6 to 12 months is recommended, or sooner if you have symptoms or multiple partners.
STI testing is a normal part of responsible sexual health. The Youth-Friendly Centre at OOU provides confidential services in a supportive environment, and trained professionals are there to help.
Untreated STIs can cause serious health issues, like infertility, chronic pain, and increased risk of HIV. Early detection and treatment help prevent these complications.
Yes, the Directorate of Health Services and the Youth-Friendly Centre at OOU offer resources, counselling, and information to help students maintain healthy sexual practices.
Sexual health is an essential aspect of overall well-being, especially for students navigating personal relationships and life changes during their university years.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are common and are a significant health concern globally; awareness about them is essential for every individual, especially students.
Staying informed about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and practising healthy sexual habits can help students protect themselves and their partners, contributing to a healthier campus community.
This guide provides essential information about STIs, their prevention, how to access testing, and the resources available at OOU to support students in maintaining good sexual health.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Sexually transmitted infections are infections that are spread primarily through sexual contact, including vaginal, oral, and anal sex.
STIs are caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites that can be transmitted during intimate contact. Some of the most common STIs include:
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): A virus that attacks the immune system and, if left untreated, can progress to AIDS.
- Chlamydia: A bacterial infection that often shows no symptoms but can cause complications if left untreated.
- Gonorrhoea: A bacterial infection that can affect the genital tract, rectum, and throat.
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV): A virus with many strains, some of which can lead to genital warts or increase the risk of cancers.
- Syphilis: A bacterial infection that progresses in stages and can cause severe health problems if untreated.
- Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): A virus that causes genital herpes, leading to painful blisters or sores.
- Trichomoniasis: A parasitic infection causing vaginal or penile discharge and discomfort.
Common Symptoms of STIs
While some STIs are asymptomatic, meaning they do not show symptoms, others can present signs that may prompt testing and treatment.
Here are some symptoms associated with various STIs:
- Unusual Discharge: A change in vaginal, penile, or anal discharge colour, odour, or consistency can indicate infections like chlamydia, gonorrhoea, or trichomoniasis.
- Pain or discomfort: Pain during urination, sexual intercourse, or lower abdominal pain may signal an STI.
- Sores, Warts, or Bumps: Genital sores, blisters, or warts are often signs of herpes or HPV.
- Itching or Irritation: persistent itching, rashes, or redness around the genital area may indicate an infection.
- Flu-like symptoms: fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, fever, and body aches can sometimes occur with STIs like HIV or syphilis in their early stages.
Since symptoms can vary or even be absent, regular testing is essential to detect and treat infections before complications arise.
Why Are STIs a Concern?
STIs can have serious health consequences if left untreated. For example:
- Long-term Health Issues: Untreated STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhoea can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, which can cause infertility.
- Risk of Cancer: Certain strains of HPV can cause cervical and other cancers.
- Transmission to Partners: STIs can be passed to sexual partners, leading to health complications.
- Increased Risk of HIV: Certain STIs can make individuals more susceptible to HIV infection.
Awareness of these risks emphasises the importance of preventive measures and early treatment for STIs.
Getting Tested for STIs
Testing is crucial for detecting STIs early, treating them effectively and preventing further spread.
The Directorate of Health Services provides a confidential and supportive environment where students can get tested and access sexual health counseling.
- How to Access Testing: Students can visit the main campus health center or the minicampus health center for testing. HIV Counselling and testing is done at the Youth-Friendly Center. Services are confidential, and counseling is available to help students make informed decisions.
- When to Get Tested: It’s advisable to get tested regularly, especially if you’re sexually active with multiple partners (NOT RECOMMENDED) or you suspect exposure. Testing is recommended every six months for sexually active individuals or whenever symptoms are present.
- What to Expect: Depending on the infection type, testing might involve a urine sample, blood test, or a swab from the affected area. Results are typically available within a few days, and any necessary follow-up treatment will be provided.
Treatment Options for STIs
Most STIs are treatable and manageable, and some can even be cured with appropriate medication.
Here’s a breakdown of common treatment methods:
- Antibiotics: Bacterial STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and syphilis can be effectively treated and cured with antibiotics. It’s important to complete the entire course of medication, even if symptoms improve, to ensure the infection is fully eradicated.
- Antiviral Medications: Viral infections, such as herpes and HIV, cannot be cured but can be managed with antiviral medications. For example, antiretroviral therapy (ART) can significantly reduce HIV viral load, allowing individuals to live healthy lives.
Condoms: effective prevention in sexually active individuals
Condoms are the only reliable method for preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among sexually active individuals.
When used consistently and correctly, condoms act as a physical barrier, blocking the exchange of bodily fluids and reducing the risk of infection.
Unlike other contraceptive methods, such as birth control pills or intrauterine devices (IUDs), condoms specifically protect against STIs, including HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and syphilis.
They are effective during vaginal, anal, and oral sex, making them a versatile tool for sexual health.
By incorporating condom use into sexual practices, individuals can greatly minimise their risk of STIs and protect both themselves and their partners.
Preventing STIs
Prevention is the most effective way to protect yourself and your partners from STIs.
Here are some best practices:
- Use Protection: Consistent use of condoms during sexual activity greatly reduces the risk of STI transmission. Dental dams can also protect against STIs during oral sex.
- Limit Partners: Reducing the number of sexual partners lowers the chance of infection exposure.
- Vaccinations: Vaccines are available for certain STIs, such as HPV and hepatitis B. Vaccination is especially beneficial for young people, offering protection before exposure.
- Regular Testing: Knowing your and your partner’s STI status through regular testing is a proactive way to prevent transmission.
- Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Do not share razors, needles, or other personal items that might carry blood or bodily fluids, as these can transmit infections like HIV.
How Infected Students Can Avoid Infecting Others
If a student tests positive for an STI, they can take steps to prevent spreading it to others:
- Open Communication: Honest conversations with partners about STI status are crucial. Inform your partners and encourage them to get tested, too.
- Practice Safe Sex: Always use condoms or dental dams during sexual activity to minimise the risk of transmission.
- Adhere to Treatment Plans: Following prescribed treatment plans helps reduce infectiousness. For instance, ART for HIV lowers the viral load, reducing transmission risk.
- Avoid Sexual Activity During Outbreaks: For infections like herpes, avoid sexual contact during active outbreaks, as these periods are highly contagious.
Dealing with Stigma and Discrimination
Students diagnosed with an STI may face stigma, but support is available to help them navigate these challenges.
- Seek Support: The Youth-Friendly Centre offers counselling services to help students process their diagnosis in a safe and non-judgemental environment.
- Educate Yourself and Others: Understanding your diagnosis and sharing accurate information with others can help reduce stigma.
- Join Support Groups: Connecting with others who have similar experiences can provide valuable support and reassurance.
How OOU Supports Students’ Sexual Health
OOU’s Directorate of Health Services provides students with the necessary resources for sexual health.
- Confidential Testing and Counselling: Testing services are offered confidentially, ensuring privacy and respect for students’ needs.
- Access to condoms: the correct and consistent use of condoms is the only way to prevent being infected with STIs in sexually active individuals. Students can access free condoms at the Youth Friendly Centre.
- Education and Awareness Programs: OOU regularly hosts programs and workshops on sexual health, promoting a well-informed student body.
- Access to Vaccinations: The Youth Friendly Centre offers access to HPV and hepatitis B vaccinations and educational materials on safe sexual practices.
