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Bacterial Sexually Transmitted Infections chart

Viral Sexually Transmitted Infections chart

What are the risks?

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)* can be very serious. If you think you are at risk, call Family Planning or another health care provider…soon!

Over half of people aged 15-25 in the United States have an STI.

Having an STI can increase your chances of getting another STI or HIV/AIDS.

An untreated STI can lead to infertility (the inability to have a baby) in both women and men.

70% of people who are infected with an STI show NO symptoms.

Human Papilloma Virus (genital warts) is a leading cause of cervical cancer in women.

STIs can lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) in women.

*STIs are sometimes referred to as “Sexually Transmitted Diseases” (STDs) and “Venereal Disease” (VD).

What Else Could it Be?

Not all infections are sexually transmitted. If you have any symptoms, visit a Family Planning Clinic or another health care provider to be treated.

IF YOU HAVE:

Itching in the pubic area and visible lice or eggs, it could be Pubic Lice (“Crabs”).

Intense itching and a red rash on your genitals, hands, or other body parts, it could be Scabies.

These infections are often spread through sexual contact, but can also be passed on by infected towels, toilet seats, clothes, and close contact.

IF YOU HAVE:

White, lumpy discharge, pain during intercourse, itching or irritation of the genitals, it could be a Yeast Infection (Candidiasis).

Itching, irritation, unusual discharge and odor, it could be Bacterial Vaginosis.

Painful and frequent urination, it could be a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI).

Help yourself prevent some of these infections by staying healthy, eating a balanced diet, and managing stress. Wearing loose cotton underwear and not douching can also decrease your chances of infection.

How Can You Protect Yourself?

The best way to protect yourself is by NOT having vaginal, anal, or oral sex.

Limit your number of sexual partners.

Talk to your partner about past sexual contacts and needle drug use.

If you or your partner have a rash, sore, redness, or discharge or if you are worried about an STI….DON’T HAVE SEX.

Avoid all sexual contact until you and your partner have completed treatment.

Get Checked:

Every time you have a health exam.

If you or your partner has sex with someone else.

Any time you think you might be at risk, even if you don’t have symptoms.

Use latex condoms correctly every time you have sex. REMEMBER, condoms do not provide complete protection from all STIs.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT STIs call toll free:

Maine AIDS Hotline 1-800-851-2437

National STI and AIDS Hotline 1-800-227-8922

Or visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Their website is: www.cdc.gov

If you have any symptoms, or think you may be at risk for an STI, don’t put it off! Visit your local Family Planning Clinic or another health care provider as soon as possible.

WHERE'S MY FAMILY PLANNING CENTER?

There are many Family Planning Centers in Maine:

Call Toll Free

1-877-326-2345

to be automatically connected with the Family Planning Clinic nearest you.