STI

What is Non Specific Urethritis? Urethritis is the swelling of a guy’s urethra (where your pee comes out). It can be caused by different bacterial infections, which is why it’s called ‘non-specific’. The most common causes arechlamydia, gonorrhoea and mycoplasma. Urethritis is sometimes called Non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU) or Non Specific Urethritis (NSU). Are there any symptoms? Guys you [...]

What is Thrush? Thrush also called Candidiasis isn’t actually an STI. It’s caused by the vagina making too much natural yeast. Lots of girls get thrush and for some girls it can happen over and over again. Guys can get it too. Are there any symptoms? Girls- You may notice discharge from your vagina [...]

What are Genital Warts? Genital warts are warts on the skin of your genitals (vagina, penis) and perianal area (skin around the bum). They are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV).  You can get genital warts anywhere around your genitals. Read more about genital warts and HPV on our blog. Are there any [...]

What is Hepatitis B? Hepatitis B is a virus that can get into your liver. It can sometimes be called Hep B. Hepatitis B can be prevented through a vaccination (given in the arm by a needle).  Are there any symptoms? You may not notice any symptoms. Or you might notice some symptoms that [...]

What is Syphilis? Syphilis is an STI caused by the bacteria treponema pallidum.  It can be treated with an injection of medication. If it's not treated it can stay in the body for many years and cause serious problems later in life. Syphilis is more common in guys who have sex with guys. Are there [...]

What is Gonorrhoea? Gonorrhoea is sometimes called ‘gono’. It’s an STI caused by bacteria called Neisseria gonorrhoeae and is more common in guys who have sex with guys. Are there any symptoms? You may only notice symptoms when you urinate (pee).   Guys- if you do notice symptoms, they’ll be different depending on where [...]

What is Chlamydia? Chlamydia is an STI that doesn’t always show symptoms. It’s actually the most commonly reported STI in young people. It’s caused by bacteria called chlamydia trachomatis and it can be passed on through sexual fluids during oral, vaginal and anal sex. Are there any symptoms? Most people usually don’t notice any [...]

What is Herpes? Herpes is an STI caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two types of HSV: HSV1 and HSV2. Both types of herpes can occur on the lips, mouth, genital or anal (bum) areas.  HSV on the lips and mouth are called cold sores.  HSV on the genital and anal [...]

What is HIV/AIDS? First up, HIV and AIDS are not the same things. HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. It is a virus passed on through body fluids like semen, blood and vaginal fluids. It can damage your immune system. There’s no vaccine or cure for HIV but it can be treated.  When left [...]