Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections that are passed on from one person to another through unprotected sex or genital contact.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
Summary
If you're worried you have got an STI, go for a check-up at a sexual health clinic as soon as you can.
There are sexual health clinics all over New Zealand that provide a free and confidential service. Find a sexual health clinic near you.
Don't have sex, including oral sex, without a condom until you have had a check-up.
You can have an STI without knowing it and infect your partner during sex.
Symptoms
Symptoms of STIs include:
- unusual discharge from the vagina, penis or anus
- pain when peeing
- lumps or skin growths around the genitals or anus
- a rash
- unusual vaginal bleeding
- itchy genitals or anus
- blisters and sores around the genitals or anus.
Go to a sexual health clinic if:
- you have symptoms of an STI
- a sexual partner has symptoms of an STI
- you're worried after having sex without a condom.
Many STIs have no symptoms at all. The only way to know for sure is to get tested.
All STIs are treatable, and most are curable.