Virgin territory
Question
I've recently started having sex with my girlfriend we were both virgins before, so I'm wondering if it's still possible for us to catch STIs?
Answer
There are many different types of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and they can be spread in different ways, not just through penetrative sex. This means that if you or your partner has had close sexual contact or unprotected oral sex with someone else, there could be a chance that you have picked up an STI then. If neither of you has had any sexual contact before, it is very unlikely that you could have an STI.
There are also some infections that are not necessarily sexually transmitted at all, such as cystitis or thrush.
People who have an infection sometimes get symptoms to show that something is wrong. But often they don't. Where there are symptoms, these may include unusual discharge from the vagina or penis, heavy periods or bleeding between periods, pain or burning sensation when peeing, rashes, itching or tingling around the genitals or anus.
If you're worried that you may have an infection, you can get advice and testing through your local sexual health services or at a genito-urinary medicine (GUM) clinic. GUM clinics are located attached to or within local hospitals, and are usually separate, discreet departments. GUM consultations are free and confidential, which means that no one will be told about your visit, unless you want them to be told.
If you would like to talk to someone about anything to do with sex and relationships, you might like to visit your local Brook centre. There are several Brook centres around the UK, some of which run sessions just for young men.
Updated: 07/06/2011
Question answered by YouthNet in association with Brook
