Sexual Health

STI’s

STI’s or Sexually Transmitted Infections are a reality for anybody who is sexually active, especially because for some STI’s there may be few or no symptoms. If you think you have an STI, visit a GUM Clinic or Sexual Health Clinic straight away, to prevent it from worsening and reducing the risk of passing it on to sexual partners. It is also important to inform sexual partners about the STI so that they can get early treatment too. If you want more information about specific STI’s visit www.gmhp.demon.co.uk/health/std/index.html.

HIV and AIDS

Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer is on the increase especially amongst men between the ages of 20 and 44, however in 99% of cases it can be successfully treated if detected at an early stage by self-examination. Symptoms include a small hard painless lump, a dull ache in the scrotum, groin or lower back, one testicle enlarging or feeling heavier than the other and a collection of fluid. If you have any doubts go and see you GP or NHS GUM clinic straight away.

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in UK men, every year 32,000 are diagnosed with the disease and 10,000 men die (that’s one man every hour). The prostate is the size of a walnut and sits underneath the bladder, it surrounds the urethra and is crucial in sexual function (bet you all knew that though! Ha!) as it secretes a major component of semen. Early prostate cancer may not have any symptoms, and symptoms may also be caused by other non-cancerous problems so it is important to consult your GP to find out what is wrong, symptoms include urinating more often, especially at night, difficult starting to urinate or taking a long time to finish and feeling that the bladder hasn’t emptied properly.

Hepatitis

Hepatitis can cause permanent liver damage and even kill, some forms stay with you for live. It can be passed on sexually, and gay men are particularly at risk, however there are safe and effective vaccines that can protect from infection.

Oral Sex (lesbian)

Some STI’s can be passed on through oral sex between women, however there is a relatively low risk of HIV transmission but the risk is increased if cuts or sores are present on the mouth/genitals, or the receiver is menstruating. Dental dams can be used to lower risks.

Sex toys

Sharing toys can transfer STI’s if they have vaginal fluid, blood or faeces on them. A good idea is to put a condom on the toy or to use the toy on one person only. Lubricant can make toys easier to use and prevent damage (make sure it is water-based if used with condoms). ere are very few sexual

Thrush (lesbian)

Thrush is an overgrowth of yeast causing vaginal itching and soreness, often with a white discharge. It is possibly passed on through sex between women, though oral sex is considered to be low risk. Thrush can be treated with tablets (called pessaries) inserted into the vagina and a cream.

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) (lesbian)

Bacterial vaginosis is very common and occurs when the bacteria that normally exist in the vagina rapidly multiply, causing a smelly discharge. It may be linked to the use of scented bath oils and soaps. Treatment is with antibiotics and a cream.

Cervical cancer

All women (lesbian, bisexual or heterosexual) between the ages of 20 and 64 need to have cervical smear tests every 3-5 years. This applies even if you have never had sex with a man, or not for a long time, as sex between women can transmit HPV, which is associated with cervical cancer. Early detection of cervical cancer through smear testing can greatly improve the likelihood of it being cured.

Breast cancer

Checking your breasts (and your partner’s) regularly for changes or lumps is a good idea. Breast cancer is most common among older women, women who have never had any children and where there is a family history of breast cancer. If you discover a lump, go to your doctor immediately, but remember that 90% of lumps are not cancerous.