Sexual Health Education Class 101 – STIs, Condoms & Safe Sex
Maintaining sexual health is an important part of any relationship, whether you’re seeing a sex worker or not. Regular STI testing and using protection such as condoms correctly are key to stopping the spread of STIs and catching any that you may have quickly so that treatment can begin. Let’s talk about sexual health!
As a service provider, I take both my sexual health and yours seriously, and that’s why I don’t negotiate on my policy of using condoms for all services. I’ve included some great information and resources in this blog so that you can understand the importance of looking after your sexual health.
Personally, I get STI tests done every 4 to 6 weeks, as I have both personal partners and clients who I provide services for. So, I get tested for the sake of everyone’s peace of mind. I encourage you to get tested every 3 months if you’re sexually active.
Preventing the transmission of STIs is a must, as they can lead to serious health problems. Knowing the facts will help you make informed decisions about your body. Be aware of the risks of STIs, how to prevent them, and what to do in case of unprotected sex. Also, be aware of the symptoms of STIs, so that if you ever have unsafe sex or are uncertain, you can go to the doctor or a sexual health clinic for testing and further advice.
REFERENCE – For more detailed information, information on sexual health clinics, and detailed info on STIs please go to the following links – Dept of Health – Sexual Health
Key Information to be aware of:-
What is an STI?
STIs (Sexually Transmissible Infections) are passed on through sexual contact or the exchange of body fluids. Many people who have an STI don’t have any obvious symptoms or signs. So it’s important you get the facts about how they are spread and always have safe sex.
How are STIs caused?
Like other infections or diseases, STIs are caused by the spread of organisms like bacteria, viruses, or parasites. STIs caused by bacteria include chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. STIs caused by viruses include herpes, HIV, HPV, and hepatitis B.
Do STIs have symptoms?
Many people with an STI have no symptoms whatsoever, and they can only be diagnosed through testing. If signs and symptoms are present they may include things like:
•Unusual fluid from the penis, vagina, or anus
•Itchiness around the genital area
•A burning sensation when urinating
•A rash, sores, or small lumps on or around the penis, vagina, or anus
•Unusual bleeding from the vagina after sex or between periods
•Pain and swelling in the testicles
•Pain during sex
•Sore throat, swollen glands, fever, and body aches
•Unexplained tiredness, night sweats, and weight loss
Do people who don’t sleep around still get STIs?
STIs don’t only happen to people with many sexual partners. Even if you are in a long-term relationship now, you or your partner may have been infected in a previous relationship without knowing it. With many STIs, symptoms don’t show for months or even years. The only way to know for sure is to get a test.
Rising risks
Unfortunately, STIs are more common than you might think. If left untreated STI can lead to serious and painful health consequences, ranging from infertility to cancer. For example, chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause swelling and scarring of the fallopian tubes in females, which could lead to infertility. In males, the same complications might occur in the tubes leading from the testicles, which could also cause fertility problems, though it’s much less common. Syphilis can cause blindness, brain damage, and heart disease. The good news is these three infections are easy to test for and to cure.
Avoiding STI
Other than not having sex at all, condoms offer the best protection from STIs. Always be prepared by carrying condoms with you, though as a provider I carry a range of condoms to fit all sizes. However, a condom is only effective when it covers the infected area. So it’s important that when I go to get a condom for us to use, we do actually use it. The use of condoms for sex isn’t just important when seeing a provider, it should be something that you insist on when having sex with anyone, especially with a new partner or when engaging in casual sex.
Types of condoms (Condoms for males and females)
Condoms aren’t just for males to wear. The female condom is a thin sheath or pouch inserted into the vagina prior to intercourse. It lines the vagina and helps to prevent pregnancy and STI. Female condoms are a good option for people with latex allergies because they are made of polyurethane. Female condoms are available from pharmacies, family planning clinics, and some sexual health and female health clinics.
Using condoms properly
Should lubrication always be used with condoms?
Adequate lubrication makes sex more comfortable and helps prevent condom breaking. Using a lubricant is recommended for anal sex. Water-based lubricants are best. Oil-based lubricants like Vaseline and massage oil weaken latex condoms quickly, making them much more likely to leak or break.
I’ve compiled some essential resources for you to explore for further information about STIs, where to access regular testing, how to have meaningful conversations with new and long-term partners about having safe sex, and broader knowledge about Sexual health. I highly recommend taking a look!
Register of Public Sexual Health Australia Wide
Health Direct – General Sexual Health Information
Touching Base – Sexual Health and other information
Instant Scripts – Stress free, affordable, and fast STI tests.
Stigma Health – Discreet and rapid, STI & STD testing across Australia
Could I Have It – Western Australia
Queensland Sexual Health Clinics
Victorian Sexual Health Clinics
Tasmanian Sexual Health Clinics
Northern Territory Sexual Health Clinics
South Australian Sexual Health Clinics