STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection) Facts
Chlamydia
Chlamydia is an (STI) caused by the bacterium chlamydia trachomatis. In the UK, the number of new diagnoses has been steadily increasing each year since the mid-1990s, and it has now become the most commonly diagnosed STI.
Young people under 25 are most likely to be infected: 65% (80,258) of all new chlamydia diagnoses made in 2008 were in people between the ages of 16 and 24.
As chlamydia sometimes has no symptoms in both men and women, it can often go undiagnosed unless it leads to complications. However, once the infection has been diagnosed, it can be treated.
Gonorrhoea
Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a bacteria called neisseria gonorrheoae or gonococcus. It used to be known as 'the clap'. The bacteria is found mainly in the semen of infected men and vaginal fluids of infected women, so is easily passed between people through sexual contact.
Gonorrhoea is most commonly spread through unprotected sex including oral and anal sex, sharing vibrators or other sex aids that have not been washed or covered with a new condom.
Gonorrhoea is the second most common STI in the UK.
Gardnerella vaginosis
Gardnerella vaginosis, also known as bacterial vaginosis (BV), is the most common cause of abnormal vaginal discharge in women of childbearing age. However, its causes are not yet fully understood. The condition occurs when there is a change in the natural bacterial balance in your vagina.
Around half of women with BV will not have any signs or symptoms at all, or may not be aware of them. If you do not have any symptoms, then there is no need to get tested.
If you do get symptoms, you might notice a change in your usual vaginal discharge. It may increase, become thin and watery, change to a white/grey colour and develop a strong, unpleasant, fishy smell, especially after sexual intercourse. BV is not usually associated with itching or irritation.
Herpes Simplex 1/11 (Genital Herpes)
Genital herpes is an infection of the genitals that is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). The herpes simplex virus can also affect the skin on the face, causing cold sores to develop, usually around the mouth area.
There are two types of HSV:type 1 (HSV-1), and type 2 (HSV-2).
Genital herpes is caused by type 1 and type 2 HSV equally.
In most cases, genital herpes is a chronic (long-term)condition. Many people with HSV have frequently recurring genital herpes, recurring an average of four to five times in the first two years after being infected. However, the incidence of genital herpes decreases over time, and the condition becomes less severe with each subsequent occurrence.
Mycoplasma Genitalium and Ureaplasma (NSU)
Non-specific urethritis (NSU) is a general inflammation (pain, redness and/or swelling) of the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder). It is called ‘non-specific’ because there are a range of different causes.
Tiny organisms called Mycoplasma Genitalium and Ureaplasma Urealyticum can live inside your body without causing symptoms, but sometimes, especially if you're ill or stressed, can multiply leading to inflammation of the urethra. Up to 10% of cases of NSU are thought to be caused by Ureaplasma Urealyticum and up to 20% by Mycoplasma Genitalium. It's thought these organisms may be passed on during sex.
Trichomonas vaginalis
Trichomoniasis, also known as trichomonas vaginalis, is a common infection caused by a germ known as trichomonas vaginalis.
The infection can affect both men and women, although women display more symptoms than men. In women, the infection occurs in the vagina and the urethra (the tube where urine leaves the body). In men, it occurs in the urethra.
It's usually spread through unprotected sexual intercourse. You don't have to have lots of sexual partners to catch trichomoniasis. Anyone who's sexually active can catch the infection then pass it on.
Trichomoniasis can be difficult to diagnose because sometimes there are no symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they can be very similar to a number of other conditions and STIs.
Treatment for the infection is usually quick and effective. Trichomoniasis rarely causes complications.
It is possible for a pregnant woman to pass the infection to her baby at birth. Trichomoniasis can't be passed on through oral or anal sex, kissing, hugging, sharing cups, plates or cutlery, toilet seats or towels., genital chlamydia does not often cause any symptoms. However, some women may have 'non-specific symptoms'.