Over a quarter of students, 25% to be exact, will catch an STI before they finish their first year of university. Yes, read that again. Check out our blog to find out how you can prevent STIs and test yourself.
According to a survey conducted by Fresh Student Living, a quarter of students will catch an STI (sexually transmitted infection) before they finish their first year of university. Yes, read that again. 25% of students. Before they even finish their first year, that is shocking!
So, what is an STI?
An STI is an infection that can be passed from one person to another, usually through sexual contact such as unprotected vaginal, anal, oral sex, or even by sharing sex toys. Sometimes STIs can be transmitted in other ways, such as blood transfusions, during pregnancy or childbirth and by sharing needles. Some STIs are completely curable usually with antibiotics, however, some such as genital herpes and HIV are manageable but will remain in your body's system for life.
Common types of STIs
Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that spreads through sex or infected genital fluids. Chlamydia does not usually cause symptoms but can be treated if not early on. However, you may experience pain when peeing, unusual discharge and unexpected bleeding. Read more
Gonorrhoea is also caused by bacteria but is mainly found in discharge from the penis and vaginal fluid. Typical symptoms include thick green/yellow discharge, pain when peeing and unexpected bleeding. Read more
These two types of STIs are the most common, especially among university students. However, you should also read up on other STIs so you can protect yourself. People can go months without realising they have an STI as some STIs don’t cause symptoms.
Therefore, it is super important to get tested regularly to protect your sexual health and others. And remember to have open, honest and accurate conversations with your sexual partner about the risk of STIs.
For the best protection against STIs use latex or polyurethane (internal & external) condoms and dental dams every time you engage in sexual activities.
Where can I get tested?
It can be pretty scary to go in person so you can test yourself by obtaining a free STI self-test kit…
Pick up an STI (chlamydia and gonorrhoea) testing kit from...
- The SU Shop
- The SU Advice Centre
- Jays Pharmacy in Egham
- Online from cnwl.nhs.uk
If you need an HIV and syphilis test kit, you can order one online.