What is a sexually transmissible infection?
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An STI, or STD (sexually transmissible disease), is an illness or infection that can be spread during sexual contact with other people.
Most STIs are caused by tiny organisms such as viruses, bacteria or parasites.
STIs can cause a wide range of problems from mild itching to serious illness with long term effects. If left untreated, some STIs can cause infertility in women and men.
Many STIs have symptoms you notice and you should get medical advice straight away. However, sometimes there are no obvious signs of infection, so it's important to have a check up if you think there's a chance you have caught an STI.
The Good News
- Most STIs can be cured.
- STIs that can't be cured can now be managed well.
Published by Public Health Division
Victorian Government Department of Human Services
Melbourne Victoria
July 2001
Copyright State of Victoria 2001
For further information, contact:
Health Protection Services
Department of Human Services
GPO Box 4057
Melbourne 3001
Telephone: (03) 9637 4000
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Disclaimer
Copyright Updated: 9 Jun 2009
The South Eastern Centre Against Sexual Assault acknowledges the traditional Aboriginal owners of country throughout Victoria. We pay our respects to them, their culture and their Elders past, present and future.