Education

Condom Sense

Condoms do not provide complete protection from an STI.  The best way to avoid any STI is to practice sexual abstinence while unmarried.  Abstinence is the only 100% effective way to protect yourself.

If you’ve had sex and think you may have an STI, call the CPRC to get the facts - 519-620-0204.

Here are the most common symptoms for some STI’s:

Chlamydia

Caused by bacteria, chlamydia can be treated with antibiotics, but if left untreated, this infection can lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID).

Symptoms include:

    • Burning when urinating
    • Abnormal vaginal discharge
    • Pain in lower abdomen or back
    • Nausea
    • Fever

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Infects at least 50% of sexually active men & women at some point in their lives.  Some strains of HPV may lead to cancer.

There is no cure for HPV, but there are treatments for warts and pre-cancerous changes in the cervix.

Syphilis

Is sometimes hard to detect because many people do not suffer from symptoms for years.  Without treatment, Syphilis may cause damage to internal organs, including the brain, nerves, eyes, heart, blood vessels, liver, bones & joints.

Trichomaniasis

Caused by microscopic parasites.

Symptoms include:

    • Itching in the genital area
    • Strong odour coming from the vagina
    • Fluffy yellow-green vaginal discharge

Genital Herpes

Some people have no symptoms, while others experience:

    • Blisters around the genitals or rectum
    • Fever
    • Swollen glands
    • Infection of the mouth and lips

These blisters can come and go up to 4-5 times a year, often called “outbreaks”, and may be fatal to a baby if the mother has sores at time of delivery.

Gonorrhea

Caused by bacteria.  Symptoms in women are usually mild or absent, but if left untreated can lead to PID which can cause severe abdominal pain, may lead to infertility, or ectopic pregnancy.  There are some strains that respond to antibiotics, but some strains are developing a drug resistance.

Symptoms in men include:

    • White, yellow or green discharge from penis
    • Burning sensation when urinating

Hepatitis B & C

Are serious diseases that attack the liver.  They may cause Cirrhosis, lifelong infection, Liver cancer, Liver failure, and possible death.  A vaccine is available, but only effective if received prior to contact with this disease.

Some people have no symptoms while others experience:

    • Fatigue
    • Yellow skin
    • Abdominal pain
    • Dark urine
    • Nausea
    • Loss of appetite

HIV & AIDS - Human Immunodeficiency Virus & Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome

    The most deadly of STI’s.  There is no cure for HIV or AIDS.

    AIDS has killed more than 25 million people since it was first recognized in 1981.

    Symptoms of HIV or AIDS:

    • Dry cough
    • Fever
    • Profuse night sweats
    • Rapid weight loss
    • Excessive fatigue
    • Spots or unusual blemishes on tongue
    • Memory loss
    • Depression
    • Other neurological disorders
    • Pneumonia
    • Blotches on skin

If you’ve had sex and think you may have an STI, call the CPRC to get the facts - 519-620-0204.