Get The Facts: A Guide to STIs/STDs

Sexual health is an essential part of our well-being, yet it’s often a topic we shy away from. At Yinn, we’re all about changing that.

This World Sexual Health Day, we’re focusing on the theme of positive relationships. A key aspect of nurturing these relationships is understanding and discussing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and diseases (STDs). Knowing how to approach and treat these conditions is crucial not just for a healthy sex life, but also for fostering trust and intimacy with your partner.

Positive Relationships Start with Knowledge

Healthy relationships are built on trust, respect, and open communication. When it comes to sexual health, that means being informed about STIs and STDs, knowing how to protect yourself and your partner, and being open to discussing these important topics. Understanding the basics of STIs and STDs helps remove the fear and stigma, making it easier to build positive, trusting relationships.

The Basics: What Are STIs and STDs?

You’ve probably heard of STIs and STDs, but what’s the difference? An STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection) is an infection that might not cause any symptoms, while an STD (Sexually Transmitted Disease) is what can develop if the infection isn’t treated. Both are mainly spread through sexual contact, and understanding them is a key step in nurturing a healthy sexual relationship.

Common STIs and STDs: What You Need to Know

Let’s get familiar with some of the more common STIs and STDs, because knowledge really is power when it comes to protecting your sexual health and fostering positive relationships:

1. Chlamydia

• What It Is: A bacterial infection that’s often symptom-free, especially for women.
• Symptoms: If there are symptoms, they might include painful urination, unusual discharge, or pain during sex.
• Treatment: Easily treatable with antibiotics. Regular testing is key, as untreated chlamydia can lead to serious complications, including infertility.

2. Gonorrhoea

• What It Is: Another bacterial infection, usually affecting the genitals, rectum, or throat.
• Symptoms: Many people don’t have symptoms, but those who do might notice a burning sensation during urination or discharge.
• Treatment: Treatable with antibiotics, though a combination of medications is often used due to increasing antibiotic resistance.

3. Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

• What It Is: A super common viral infection that often clears up on its own.
• Symptoms: Some strains cause genital warts, while others can lead to cancer, particularly cervical cancer.
• Treatment: There’s no cure for HPV, but getting vaccinated can protect you from the most dangerous strains. Regular screenings help catch and treat any issues early.

4. Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)

• What It Is: A viral infection that can cause sores on the genitals or mouth.
• Symptoms: Painful blisters or ulcers, though many people never show symptoms.
• Treatment: There’s no cure, but antiviral meds can manage outbreaks and reduce the risk of passing it on.
• Need resources? We love @bekantonucci and her podcast Raw, Real & Vulnerable with Bek Antonucci. Also check out How To Holistically Manage HPV by The Yoni Nutritionist. 

5. Syphilis

• What It Is: A bacterial infection that progresses in stages if left untreated.
• Symptoms: It starts with painless sores, then moves on to rashes, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. In its later stages, it can cause serious health problems.
• Treatment: Syphilis is curable with antibiotics, especially when caught early.

6. Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

• What It Is: A virus that attacks the immune system, potentially leading to AIDS if untreated.
• Symptoms: Early on, it might feel like the flu, but HIV can stay hidden for years.
• Treatment: While there’s no cure, antiretroviral therapy (ART) can keep the virus under control, allowing people with HIV to live long, healthy lives.

5 Steps To Navigate STIs/STDs With Confidence 

1. Regular Testing: One of the best ways to protect your relationship—and yourself—is through regular STI/STD testing. Even if you feel fine, testing is the only way to catch an infection early and avoid complications. Plus, being proactive about your sexual health shows your partner that you care about their well-being too.

2. Open Communication: Talking about sexual health with your partner(s) might feel awkward at first, but it’s essential for a positive relationship. Being open about testing, sexual history, and boundaries builds trust and strengthens your connection.

3. Safe Practices: Using condoms can significantly reduce the risk of transmitting STIs/STDs, and when combined with a high-quality lubricant, the protection only gets better. At Yinn Body, we’re proud that our Water-Based Lubricant is condom compatible. Not only does it enhance comfort and pleasure, but it also helps reduce the risk of condom breakage, further protecting against STIs. Incorporating our lubricant into your routine is a simple way to care for both your sexual health and your relationship.

4. Seek Treatment Promptly: If you test positive for an STI/STD, seek treatment right away. Most infections are easily managed with medication, and early treatment can prevent serious health issues. By taking care of your health, you’re also taking care of your relationship.

5. Vaccination: Vaccines are available for some STIs, like HPV and hepatitis B. Staying up-to-date on your vaccinations is an easy way to protect your sexual health and show your partner that you’re committed to a healthy relationship.

Yinn Body’s Commitment to Sexual Wellness and Positive Relationships

At Yinn Body, we’re committed to more than just pleasure; we’re dedicated to your overall sexual wellness and the health of your relationships. Strong, positive relationships are built on trust, communication, and mutual care—values that extend into every aspect of our lives, including sexual health.

This World Sexual Health Day, let’s focus on building and maintaining positive relationships through open dialogue, regular testing, and mutual respect. Your body deserves the best care, and that includes understanding and managing your sexual health. Every step you take towards safeguarding your sexual well-being is a step towards a healthier, happier relationship.

Enjoyed this article? Check out Casual, But Conscious: An Introduction to RBDSM. 

For additional support and guidance please see below:

Health Direct is a free resource with a 24 hour health advice contact line.

https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/stis-screening-tests

1800 022 222 (24 Hour Health Advice Australia)

Play Safe provides contacts for help, support and information on STIs, as well as where to get tested at sexual health clinics, GPs, Indigenous Health or other services.

https://playsafe.health.nsw.gov.au/common-stis/

Q Life offers anonymous and free LGBTIQ support about sexuality, identity, gender, bodies, feelings or relationships on 1800 184 527.

https://qlife.org.au/

Lifeline provides 24/7 Crisis Support

https://www.lifeline.org.au/