STIs

If you’re not having sex (like most under 16s), then you’re not at risk of getting an STI. But this is a good time to think ahead about how you will protect yourself, and your partner, in the future.

When do we need to use protection?

It’s important to remember you only need to have unprotected sex once to put yourself at risk.

We know that many young people who are sexually active are good at being careful when it comes to their sexual health. It’s important to remember you only need to have unprotected sex once to put yourself at risk. Even if it’s your first time – if your partner has had a previous sexual partner, then you could get an STI. Condoms can help protect against STIs as they act as a protective barrier which helps to stop infections passing from one person to another.

There are lots of sexual activities that involve little or no risk of getting an STI (see about safer sex). If you are having vaginal or anal sex though, using a condom is the only really effective way of protecting yourself and your partner. There is a smaller risk of getting an infection through oral sex.

How can I know if my partner has an STI?

You can’t tell if someone has an STI by how they look, or how many other partners you think they might’ve had. Since many STIs have no symptoms, your partner might not even know if they’ve got an infection. Unless you’ve both been tested and know you’re all clear, always use a condom.

Go to the STI quick guide for more information on sexually transmitted infections.

What happens when you go for an STI test at a sexual health clinic? Where can you get tested? STI quick guide What is an STI?