Unprotected sex is not the only way you can get an infection in the genital area. You can get some infections such as thrush and cystitis even if you have never had sex. If you get these often, don’t use perfumed bubble bath and deodorants in the genital area. Wash and wipe your bottom from front to back so you don’t spread bacteria from the anus.
The warning signs The following symptoms may be a sign of infection:
- An unusually thick or watery, cloudy or smelly discharge from the vagina
- Itching, rashes, sores, blisters or pain in the genital area
- A pain or burning sensation when you pass urine
- Urinating more often than usual
- Pain during sex.
Has HIV gone away?
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is the most serious sexually transmitted infection. It damages the body’s defence system so that it cannot fight off certain infections. Most people who have HIV look and feel healthy for a long time, sometimes for 10 years or more. They may not know they have the virus. However, they can pass it on to other people through semen, blood and vaginal fluids.
When someone with HIV goes on to get certain illnesses, this condition is called AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). New treatments have been developed which mean that most people can stay well for longer although these don’t suit everybody.
HIV can be passed on:
- If you have vaginal or anal sex without a condom with someone who has HIV;
- By a mother with HIV to her baby during pregnancy, at birth or through breastfeeding;
- By using needles, syringes or other equipment for injecting drugs that is infected with HIV
