Sexual Health Awareness

SEXUAL HEALTH

Below is some Sexual Health information - if you have any questions please email michaela mwoodhouse@qmu.ac.uk

Contraception

Condoms condom

Condoms are available FREE from the Students’ Union Reception and RAW Centre through the C:Card service.(NOT AVAILABLE AS YET PLEASE GO TO STUDENT SERVICES) This is a confidential service that is funded through Healthy Respect in the Lothian area. All we need from the student on their first visit is their date of birth and the first part of their postcode – this is purely for statistics. They are then given an anonymous card and they have to bring this with them when they want to collect condoms. They can come as often as they like. The range is very large and includes female condoms, lubricants and a non latex option.

The Pill pill

The pill prevents pregnancy by stopping ovulation. Whilst it is considered a reliable form of contraception some women cannot use it and other may experience side effects. This is available FREE from family planning clinics and GP surgeries.

Diaphragm

A diaphragm, or cap, is a flexible rubber device that is inserted into the vagina before sex. This works in conjunction with a spermicide and also provides protection against cervical infections.

Coil/IUD or IUS

This is a small plastic or copper device coated with the hormone progesterone which is put in the womb to prevent fertilisation. Protection lasts between 3 and 10 years but it can make periods heavier and more painful.

Implants

This process involves placing a small rod under the skin of the inner upper arm. This releases progesterone to prevent conception. This can protect for up to 5 year and once removed fertility returns within 48 hours.

Injections

Progesterone is injected into the body and released slowly over 2-3 months to prevent ovulation. However, when this contraception is stopped fertility may take up to one year to return to normal.

Sterilisation

This is a permanent form of contraception that is available to both men and women. When a woman is sterilsed her fallopian tubes are blocked to avoid conception and in a man the tubes are cut so that no sperm are present when ejaculation occurs.

Emergency Contraception

The emergency pill, or the morning after pill, is available from any GP or Family Planning Clinic FREE and it prevents pregnancy if it is taken with 72 hours of unprotected sex. This treatment can cause nausea so if a woman takes this and is sick within the first 2 hours they will need to get a replacement dose. This is also available over the counter in come chemists but will cost about £20 or £25. Under 25's can go to chemists who have signs up saying EC72, and they can receive medication free

Sexually Transmitted Infections

If a person in engaged in unprotected sex, they are at risk of catching an STI. It does not matter how many people they have slept with, if they or the person they are sleeping with has had unprotected sex before, they are at risk.

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a bacterium that can affect the genitals but also the throat and eyes. It is a very common STI and in men it causes non-specific urethritis. Women may show no symptoms at all but might experience discharge or pain when passing urine. If left untreated Chlamydia can lead to problems including pelvic inflammatory disease which can lead to infertility. The male symptoms include a white cloudy discharge and a burning sensation when urinating. If untreated it can lead to serious problems with the prostate gland, however, both infections can be treated with a short course of antibiotics.

Crabs (Pubic Lice)

These are easy to get but also very easy to get rid of. They are most commonly transmitted through sex and close body contact but can be passed on by sharing towels, bed linen etc. This can be treated with a lotion – available from the chemist or your GP.

Gardnerella/Bacterial Vaginosis

This occurs when the bacteria in the vagina multiply. It results in a grey watery discharge which has a strong smell. Again this is easily treated with a course of Antibiotics.

Genital/Anal Warts

These occur in both men and women and are caused by the human papiloma virus. Some will cause fleshy growth to appear on any part of the body, whilst others only affect the genital and anal areas. They are usually painless but may itch and they can be removed by either freeze treatment or having liquid painted on.

Gonorrhea

This is another common bacterial infection. It affects the cervix, urethra and throat and is passed on via anal, oral and vaginal sex. Symptoms may vary and again this can be treated with antibiotics.

Herpes

Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex 2 virus. The symptoms are small painful blisters on the vaginal lips, penis or anal area. Symptoms typically last 2-3 weeks but once infected the person will always have the virus – there is no cure for this. Drugs may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms though and once the sores have healed the person is no longer infectious to others.

HIV/AIDS

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is the retrovirus which causes AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). HIV damages the body’s defence system and leaves the body unable to fight off certain infections. Most people with HIV look and feel healthy for a long time but they can still pass this on to others through semen, blood and vaginal fluids. Currently there is no cure for either HIV or AIDS.

Thrush

This is caused by an organism that lives on the skin as well as in the mouth and in the gut. The infection can occur in people who are unwell, have diabetes, take antibiotics or have sex with someone who may have this. Symptoms can include itching or soreness around the vagina, vulva, anus or penis, pain during sex and/or a vaginal discharge. This can be easily treated with cream and/or pills.

Tirchomaiasis

This is caused by a parasite that can be found in the vagina or urethra. Symptoms include itching and/or a discharge. Again this can be treated with antibiotics.

Any student who complains of any of these symptoms should be referred to their local GP or Family Planning Clinic. If you have had unprotected sex and would like to get checked out you can request a complete sexual health check from either of the above also.

All adults engaged in sexual health activities should undertake regular health checks.

Your local GU.M. clinic may be the best place for these, for a confidential and faster service. see details below.

Useful National Contacts