Different STIs carry different risks of transmission

Generally a good rule of thumb is to avoid sex until you've finished treating a diagnosed STI. Some STIs are treatable but not curable, such as herpes, HPV (genital warts) and HIV.

So practicing safer sex and using condoms on sex toys, gloves on hands and dental dams in the case of an outbreak of herpes is recommended.

Remember, some STIs such as herpes, syphilis and warts can be transmitted by skin to skin contact. Avoid any contact with lumps, sores or rashes. Touching her genitals or arse then touching your own genitals or arse can also transmit infection including chlamydia and gonorrhea. Washing your hands and genital area before and after sex may help reduce risk.

If you're sexually active, and especially if you are having sex with different casual partners, you should have regular checkups for STI's every 3 months, even if you do not have any symptoms.

More info

Contact: ACON’s Lesbian & Same-Sex Attracted Women’s Health Project

Tel: (02) 9206 2000
Free Call: 1800 063 060
Hearing Impaired: (02) 9283 2088

Email: women@acon.org.au

Web: See girl2girl.info for more information on STI’s and STI testing