We believe that education is a crucial factor in preventing the spread of STI’s and many sexual transmitted infections. We can not under estimate the importance of effective education. Almost everyone is vulnerable to sexual transmitted infections. Young people are even more vulnerable. We all need to know the risks involved in unsafe sex.

These days, what you don’t know about sex can hurt you, so seek to get the facts whether you are sexually active or not.

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI's) are transmitted through body contact during sex. They are caused by viruses, bacteria and parasites. They can also be known as Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). Some of the more common or well-known STIs include HIV and gonorrhoea. STIs are passed on by having sex with someone who is infected. Some are easier to transmit than others. Using a condom should protect you from becoming infected.

Many STIs have very few or no symptoms, so it is not easy to know if you are infected. If caught early enough, many STIs, such as gonorrhoea can be easily treated. You can also be vaccinated against hepatitis A and B. Other STIs, such as HIV, cannot be vaccinated against or easily cured. If STIs are not treated they can lead to serious health problems.

Approximately 4 million people use contraception services each year through GP or specialist community contraception services such as GUM and family planning clinics. Contraception services are available, free of charge, to all those in need - both for men and women.

A GUM Clinic is one of the places you can go to for an HIV test. At a GUM clinic the staff will give you advice and support before and after testing, help you decide upon any treatments that may be necessary, and provide all kinds of information about sexual health. There may be aspects of your sexual health that you haven’t considered and preventative measures that they can help you with, such as vaccinating you against Hepatitis A and B. All these services are free, confidential and anonymous.