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Golden Rules For Good Sexual Health

Get tested regularly

The more sex partners you have the more often you should get tested. At least yearly if you have any casual partners and 3-6 monthly if you have a lot. This reduces the chances of having an undiagnosed STI that can harm your own health as well as increase your risk of picking up or passing on HIV.

Recognise and act on symptoms

If it stings when you piss, if you find a sore on your dick or arse or if you get a rash or itch don’t just hope it will go away - get it checked out.

Tell your recent sex partners

If you’ve been diagnosed with an STI, or even just think you have one, let your recent sex partners know so they can get checked. This reduces the number of STIs in the community and reduces your chances of getting it again.

Get vaccinated for hepatitis A and B

There are vaccinations available for both hepatitis A and B which may be prescribed by a GP or possibly available for free from sexual health clinics.

Use condoms and water based lube

Condoms provide the most effective protection against the transmission of HIV and significantly reduce the risks of picking up a range of other STIs.

This page last updated 23 July 2008