FAQs - Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) 

What is an STI?
STI stands for sexually transmitted infection. This is basically an infection passed on through vaginal, anal or oral sex. Anyone can get an STI, it has nothing to do with how many partners you have, who you have sex with or your gender. Not all STIs are exclusively sexually transmitted, for example thrush can be caused by a number of things. Most STIs can be cleared up with a short course of antibiotics or cream. If you are worried you may have an STI it is best to get it checked out as soon as possible. For further info on the individual STIs, see A-Z of STIs.

What should I do if I think I might have an STI?
If you think you have an STI you should think about getting it checked out a.s.a.p as some infections can cause damage if left untreated for long periods of time. You can either see a nurse or G.P where you are registered or you can go to the Claude Nicol Clinic (GUM).They will take some samples and do an examination. You usually have to wait about a week for the results and they have trained advisors if you want to talk to someone. Although they do operate a drop-in system, it is often very busy and therefore you might want to make an appointment.

What is chlamydia?
See A-Z of STIs.

Do I have to tell my partner that I have an STI?
You are not obliged to tell anyone that you have an STI. However, in order to stop the infection from being passed any further many clinics recommend that you do tell current sexual partners and any other recent partners. This is so they can be offered testing and treatment. The Claude Nicol clinic (GUM) has advisors who will be able to discuss this with you.

If you feel this is too difficult or are not sure of how to contact partners, the Claude Nicol offers a tracing service. With your permission they will try and find any partners and send them contact slips. These slips tell the person that they may have been exposed to an STI and suggests that they go for a check-up. It does not say what the infection is or have your name on it, so confidentiality is protected. This is called partner identification.

What should I do if I get a contact slip from a sexual health clinic?
If you get a contact slip from a sexual health clinic, it does not necessarily mean you have an STI. The only way someone can tell if you have an STI is by testing.

A contact slip simply means that someone you have had sexual contact with has an STI and therefore you may have been exposed to it. It will not tell you what the STI is or the name of the person. For this information you will need to go to the clinic with the slip and someone will be able to talk to you further and offer you testing and treatment. You do not need to go to the clinic where the slip came from. If you take it to your local clinic they will contact the clinic and find out the details. You do not have to do anything if you do not want to. This process is called partner notification and the clinic protects both your and the other person's confidentiality.

Will I need to pay?
All advice, information and tests are free. If you go to your G.P you may have to pay a prescription charge for treatment.

Are sexual health services confidential?
Yes, all health services are completely confidential. Although GUM clinics are based in hospitals, they keep all records completely separate from any other notes you may have there and they will not pass on any details to your GP. Only where you give permission, where it is in your best interests and in extreme circumstances can information about you be passed on. If you have any concerns about your medical records, talk to your G.P or the staff at the clinic.