Herpes (Herpes Simplex Virus - HSV) is diagnosed by swabbing any blisters/ulcers on the genital skin. Blood testing is not recommended as part of a standard STI screen when no symptoms are present.
Herpes is very common and rarely severe. To learn what's fact versus fiction, call 1800 451 624 or get more info
here.
Genital Warts (Human Papilloma Virus - HPV) are diagnosed by a clinician trained to recognise them. They are self-limiting, meaning your own immune system will get rid of them eventually. Topical treatments destroy warts more quickly, but they can return until your body clears the HPV virus itself.
Urethritis (NSU or NGU) is caused by a bacterial infection of the urethra of the penis. It is tested by swabbing any abnormal discharge from the penis. It isn't tested when there are no symptoms.
Mycoplasma Genitalium (MG) is a bacterial infection of the urethra of the penis and the cervix (the opening to the uterus). It's tested by a swab or a urine sample when symptoms are present. It isn't tested when there are no symptoms.
Candida/Thrush is common condition of yeast overgrowth in the vagina. It's not technically an STI, but some people will find it's triggered by sex.
Bacterial vaginosis is a common condition caused by an imbalance of naturally occuring flora in the vagina. It can be sexually transmitted vagina to vagina. It is not sexually transmitted to, or from, penises. Some people will find penetrative sex disrupts to the vaginal flora and triggers the infection.
Trichomoniasis can cause a lot more vaginal discharge and an unpleasant smell. It usually doesn't have symptoms in the penis, but can cause irritation when passing urine. It is uncommon in most of Australia and so is usually not part of a standard STI screen.
Hepatitis C is passed when the blood of an infected person enters the bloodstream of an uninfected person. This may happen through sharing needles, syringes, spoons, tourniquets and other injecting equipment, needle stick injuries, or tattooing and body piercing with non-sterile equipment.
For more information about HIV & other STIs
call 1800 451 624