S.T.I – Sexually Transmitted Infections
PLEASE NOTE: Please remember that this information is not intended to replace medical treatments or medical advice from your doctor or clinic.
Important Information
Most sexually transmitted infections (STI’s) can be treated, but you will need to go and see a doctor or your clinic as soon as possible. If you are near our Somerset West Crisis Centre, we can help you as well, week days 08h30 – 17h00. If you have been raped call our 24-hour crisis line right now 083 484 9409.
If you need advice right now, please:
Call the toll-free AIDS Helpline (0800-012-322) and ask to be transferred to the Treatment Line (Professional Nurses provide quality, accurate and anonymous telephone information and/or education on antiretroviral, TB and STI treatment).
STI’s are infections passed from one person to another through sexual contact. There are 20 – 30 different infectious diseases which can be transmitted by sexual contact. 1 in every 10 sexually active persons in South Africa is infected with an STI (1 in 5 are HIV+).
STI’s can cause long-term complications and can spread rapidly, if not properly treated.
Symptoms of common STI’s include:
Women – painful urination and discharge, itching, ulcers, fever, fatigue, weight loss, painful joints, nausea, vomiting, lower abdominal pain, pain during intercourse, pain during menstruation, red or pink pin sized swellings (usually in clusters), lower back pain, rash, abscess or sores or blisters on vagina, ulcers in the mouth, changes in menstruation, vesticles on genitals, raw areas and inflammation on inner thighs, perineum and vulva, bladder infection, frequent urination, intermittent bleeding.
Men – painful and frequent drip or discharge from penis, blood stains on underwear, burn on urinating, itching, ulcers, weight loss, fatigue, lower abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, fever, painful joints, red or pink pin sized swellings (usually in clusters), lower back pain, rash, abscess or sores or blisters on penis, ulcers in the mouth, film-like discharge on meatus usually in the morning, urethral irritation, red irritation on penis, frequent urination, intermittent bleeding, vesticles on genitals.
For more information about STI’s please go to: http://www.safersex.co.za/index.htm
