Everything you need to know about STIs, testing and treatment
OpenClinic offers sexual health services throughout Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections that are spread by sex, and in some cases, by non-penetrative sexual contact.
Anyone can get an STI, but most infections are easily treated, and getting tested is free and confidential. Using condoms and dental dams can help to protect against STIs.
STI facts:
- The majority of STIs can be treated with medication.
- STIs that cannot be cured can be managed.
- The sooner STIs are treated, the better it is for your long-term health.
- It’s possible to have more than one type of STI at once.
- Not all STIs have symptoms – if you’ve had unprotected sex then you’re potentially at risk.
- You can get STIs from all types of sexual act (including oral and using toys).
If you’re worried because you think you’ve got an STI, go for a check-up at your nearest clinic, or order a testing kit online.
There are five sexual health clinics in Stoke-on-Trent – in Blurton, Cobridge, Hanley, Meir and Shelton. Appointments can be booked online, or by calling 0808 178 0955.
Appointments will be booked following an initial clinical assessment and a staff member will advise on accessing the required service. This may be through our walk-in service, an online STI testing kit (ages 16+), a telephone or booked clinic appointment.
If you have no symptoms, you are advised to wait at least 2 weeks after you have had unprotected sex to test for STIs because most STIs don’t show in a test straight away.
Online tests are available for people aged 16 – people will take an online questionnaire and tests will be recommended for you based on your circumstances.
The kits can test for chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis and HIV. They come with instructions on how to take the test, as well as information on how you will get your results.
Some other infections and conditions can cause similar symptoms to STIs including thrush and things like dry skin or rashes around your genitals. Anyone who believes their infection is not sexually transmitted should visit a pharmacy or GP..
BHA for Equality has produced Your Guide to STIs for Black, Asian and Minoritized Communities, who are disproportionately affected by STIs. The guide is available in English, Urdu, Portuguese, and Farsi. Download ‘Your Guide to STIs’ here.
