STDs: frequently asked questions

If you think you have symptoms of an STD (sexually transmitted disease), effective treatment is at hand. We dispel the myths that surround different infections and their treatments.

Which STDs can lead to infertility - for both men and women?

Chlamydia is a common culprit and if left untreated may lead to infertility. Men are more likely to have symptoms of an STD and seek help, so are less likely to have infections of a longer duration and risk effects on their fertility. Other STDs, such as gonorrhoea, can cause pelvic inflammatory disease in women and can affect fertility.

What will happen when I visit a GUM clinic? Will the examinations hurt?

GUM clinics vary from area to area. Generally, once you have registered your details, you will see a member of the clinical team - the doctor or nurse or health adviser, who will ask about your sexual history, which will allow them to advise you on which tests will be performed, though it is standard practice to offer you a blood test for HIV. The examination itself should not hurt. For women it is common to have a routine smear test, for men, a smooth swab will be taken from the tip of your penis - there is no such thing as an umbrella! The staff will explain the procedure and remember, you are in control – so tell the staff if you're not happy.

Can I make a request for a female doctor/nurse to carry out the examinations?

Yes, depending on availability at the particular GUM clinic. No one can make you see a male or female doctor/nurse if you don't feel comfortable about it.

Which, if any, STDs are specific to men and which are specific to women?

Chlamydia is more widely reported among young women than men, although both men and women can be infected. Rates of infection depend on the specific STD in question. For example, the latest figures show that more men than women have syphilis, whereas about equal numbers of men and women have been treated for genital warts. For more information about STDs in men and women visit www.fpa.org.uk

I had unprotected sex when I was in my early 20s. Do any STDs lie dormant in your body? Is there a risk of an STD coming back once I've been successfully treated?

By far the majority of the STDs, once treated will only come back if you're re-exposed to them through sexual contact. It's worth checking your sexual partners have completed treatment where they / you have been diagnosed and treated for an STD

Genital herpes - caused by the herpes simplex virus, lies dormant in the body. Once you have the virus it can reoccur. The first time you have herpes you may be offered tablets to reduce the severity of the infection. There is also a cream that controls the symptoms. Recurrent infections may not need treatment.

Genital warts, caused by the human papilloma virus, can also reoccur. While many people with warts 'clear the virus' from their body, there is no real treatment to clear the virus – although cosmetic treatments are available for the visible warty growths.

HIV – about 31 per cent of HIV-infected individuals are unaware of their status. The best way to prevent against HIV is to use a condom. If you're concerned, you can get an HIV test. If it's positive, it means you have HIV antibodies in your blood – it does not mean you have AIDS.

If I've been successfully treated for a STD in the past, do I need to tell my current sexual partner?

This depends on the STD that has been treated. It's always a good idea to be open about your sexual history with a new partner and always practise safer sex by using a condom. If in doubt, ask at your GP or at the GUM clinic.

How long is the average course of treatment for an STD?

There is no average as all STDs are different. Usually, after an initial health check at a GUM clinic, you'll be invited back for follow-up appointments. If in doubt, talk to your GP or local GUM clinic.

STDs requiring antibiotics vary from one-off doses to one- to two-week-long courses and even longer in some cases. The important thing is that you follow the instructions, complete all treatments and, usually, avoid sexual contact. Depending on the infection, you may need to return to the clinic for a follow-up visit.

More details on STDs, plus information on your local clinics and services, can be found at playingsafely.co.uk

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