Learn more about STI transmission and prevention
It is important to understand what STIs are and how they are transmitted in order to understand how STIs can be prevented.
What is an STI?
STIs can be caused by different pathogens (e.g. bacteria, protozoa, viruses and parasites) depending on the type of infection. STIs are transmitted from person to person during sexual activity and most are easily treated with antibiotics. If left untreated, STIs can cause serious health complications.
How are STIs passed and how can they be prevented
STIs are typically transmitted through condomless sexual contact, where body fluids or blood may be exchanged. In addition, some STIs can be transmitted through skin–to-skin contact in the genital region.
Using condoms during sexual activity is an effective way to prevent the transmission of most STIs. Condoms may provide prevention of STIs that are transmitted by skin–to-skin contact if the affected area of skin is covered by the condom during sex.
Please see the resource below for information about symptoms, prevention, testing and treatment.
STI Basics | SmartSex Resource