According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 1 million treatable sexually transmitted infections (STIs) occur worldwide every day, and most of them show no symptoms. Therefore, protection and regular testing are the cornerstones of sexual health.
Most common STIs
- Chlamydia and gonorrhea: Bacterial; treated with antibiotics. If left untreated, they can lead to infertility.
- Syphilis: Bacterial; easily treated in its early stages.
- HPV: The most common STI. It can cause genital warts and certain cancers, especially cervical cancer. It is preventable with a vaccine.
- Genital herpes: Viral and permanent; managed with medication.
- HIV: Can be managed with treatment; people with an undetectable viral load do not transmit the virus sexually (“Undetectable = Untransmittable”).
- Hepatitis B: Preventable with a vaccine.
- Trichomoniasis: Parasitic; easy to treat.
Possible symptoms
- Unusual vaginal, penile, or anal discharge
- Burning during urination
- Sores, blisters, warts, or itching in the genital area
- Pain or bleeding during or after intercourse
- Pain in the groin area
The absence of symptoms does not mean there is no infection.
Protection methods
1. Condoms
Correctly and consistently used male and female condoms greatly reduce the risk of many STIs, including HIV. Condoms or dental dams can be used for oral sex.
- Check the expiration date; do not store them in a wallet or a hot place.
- Do not use oil-based products with latex condoms; a water- or silicone-based lubricant reduces the risk of breakage.
- Use a new condom for every sexual encounter and every change in sexual activity (anal → vaginal).
2. Vaccines
HPV and Hepatitis B vaccines are safe and effective. Consult your doctor to see if they are right for you.
3. Regular testing
Get tested before starting a sexual relationship with a new partner, and at regular intervals if you have multiple partners. Testing is conducted confidentially at many healthcare facilities.
4. PrEP and PEP
PrEP is a protective medication taken regularly by people at high risk of HIV. PEP is emergency treatment that must be started within 72 hours after possible exposure to HIV. Consult a doctor about both.
5. Toy hygiene
Shared toys can carry infections. Use a new condom for each user or thoroughly clean them in between. See our toy cleaning guide for details.
6. Open communication
Discussing test results and protection preferences with your partner is part of responsible sexual health.
If an infection is detected
- Complete the treatment recommended by your doctor.
- Refrain from sexual intercourse until treatment is finished.
- Inform your partners; they should also get tested and treated.
Resources
- WHO. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) – Fact sheet. who.int
- CDC. Sexually Transmitted Infections Treatment Guidelines, 2021. cdc.gov
- CDC. Condom Effectiveness. cdc.gov
- Republic of Turkey Ministry of Health General Directorate of Public Health. HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infections. hsgm.saglik.gov.tr
This content is for general information purposes only; it is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment. If you have symptoms or have had a potentially risky exposure, consult a healthcare facility.
