Sex without using a condom can put you at greater risk of getting a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI). On this page you can find general information about STIs including what an STI is, how to protect yourself from catching an STI, and where you can go if you are worried that you might have an infection.

Some infections can pass to another person through unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex, by genital contact or through sharing sex toys. Infections spread in this way are known as STIs.

Safer sex involves using condoms correctly every time you have sex. If you don’t use a condom, you are at higher risk of catching an STI.

If you are worried that you might have an STI, please book an appointment at a local sexual health clinic or with your GP (see video 4 for more information). It is possible to have an STI without knowing it, which can then be passed on to your partner.

More information on STIs or Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) can be found at www.friskywales.org

Use male or female condoms every time you have vaginal or anal sex. Avoid sharing sex toys.

There is more information about how you can protect yourself from STIs available on this website: www.sexwise.org.uk

You can get full testing and treatment from a GUM or sexual health clinic, your GP or a contraception clinic. You can ask to book an appointment or use a walk in service (if they are available) at the clinic of your choosing.

Some services will allow you to order a free home test kit that can provide an STI kit you can use to test yourself at home and then post, before receiving the result via text, email or post.

All advice and information about where you can go for check-up can be found here: www.friskywales.org