There are numerous STIs which occur more frequently than HIV. There are vaccines for particular STIs: HPV, hepatitis A/B and monkeypox. For most others – except HIV and hepatitis C – there are no reliable protective strategies, as they are very easy to transmit. Even condoms, despite reducing the risk of transmission, do not offer complete protection. Most STIs can be effectively treated though. Early detection and treatment are decisive for avoiding long-term health damage.

One major hindrance for prevention is the fact that many infections do not produce any noticeable symptoms. People with an infection can feel completely healthy and unknowingly pass it on to others. Some sexually transmitted infections can resolve spontaneously without any tests or treatments being administered. However, others, such as syphilis, cause severe health damage.

The only method of diagnosing an STI is a properly conducted test. There are effective treatments available for most STIs. Early detection and treatment are decisive for avoiding long-term health damage.

Dealing with STIs: vaccination, protection, testing, treatment

Safer Sex means protecting yourself against sexually transmitted infections. There are different risks, vaccinations, protection methods and protection recommendations for every infection.