Sexually transmissible infections (STIs) are infections that are transmitted through close body contact or the exchange of body fluids, blood, mucus or saliva. Sexual contact includes:

• Fucking
• Sucking
• Touching
• Fingering
• Kissing
• Licking

If you or your partner have any sex with casual partners it's a good idea to get tested for STIs regularly. An annual check is a good baseline. However, the more sexual partners you have the more frequently you should get tested. That may mean every 3-6 months.

Even if you have no symptoms you could still have an STI and the only way to know is to get a test. If you're in a new relationship, monogamous or otherwise, it's a good time for you and your partner to get a check-up. You may have contracted an STI from a previous partner. Regular testing is also recommended if you're having sex outside of your primary relationship.

What causes STIs?

Sexually transmitted infections are caused by a range of viruses, parasites, bacteria and fungi.

Viruses

• HIV/AIDS
• Genital herpes
• Genital and anal warts
• Hepatitis A, B & C  
• Molluscum contagiosum

Parasites

• Pubic lice (crabs)
• Scabies

Bacteria

• Gonorrhoea
• Chlamydia
• Syphilis
• Gut infections
• Lymphogranuloma Venereum (LGV)
• Bacterial Vaginosis

Fungi

• Thrush (candidiasis)

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