Types of STIs

Your Guide to Sexually Transmitted Infections

General information on STIs and some genital conditions.

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Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a common bacterial STI. Many people who have chlamydia will not notice any symptoms.

Genital herpes (HSV)

Genital herpes is a viral infection that can cause blisters or ulcers in the genital area.

Genital warts (HPV)

Genital warts are ‘warts’ in the genital area caused by a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV).

Gonorrhoea

Gonorrhoea is a bacterial STI caused by the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoea. Many people who have gonorrhoea will not notice any symptoms.

Hepatitis A is a virus that infects the liver. There has been an increase in sexually transmitted hepatitis A in gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (gbMSM). A safe and effective vaccine is available for the prevention of hepatitis A infection.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that infects the liver. It is a major cause of serious liver disease such as cirrhosis (scarring) and liver cancer, and affects millions of people worldwide. In most people a full course of vaccination prevents infection.

Hepatitis C in gbMSM

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that infects the liver. Worldwide, it is an important cause of long-term liver disease, such as liver cirrhosis (scarring) and liver cancer. There has been an increase in sexually transmitted hepatitis C in gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (gbMSM).

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the human immune system and weakens its ability to fight infection and disease. Effective treatment of HIV keeps the immune system strong, prevents illness and transmission to others.

Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) in gbMSM

Lymphogranuloma venereum, or LGV, is a type of chlamydia. LGV is mainly diagnosed in gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (gbMSM).

Mycoplasma genitalium (M gen)

M gen is a bacteria that can be transmitted through sexual contact.

Pubic lice (crabs)

Pubic lice are tiny insects that live in coarse body hair and are spread by close physical contact.

Scabies

Scabies is caused by tiny insects (called mites) which burrow under the skin and lay eggs.

Shigella in gbMSM

Shigella is a bacteria that can cause severe stomach upset. Sexually transmitted shigella is mainly diagnosed in gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (gbMSM).

Syphilis

Syphilis is a bacterial STI. Untreated syphilis can cause serious health problems.

Trichomonas vaginalis (TV)

TV is caused by a tiny germ called a protozoan, which is similar to bacteria. Most cases of TV are found in women, though it can affect everyone.