Guide to STIs, BBVs and Other Infections -
Man to Man
The following are some of the main sexually transmissible infections, blood-borne viruses and other infections that men who have sex with men may be at risk of. It is a good idea for anyone who is sexually active (especially with different partners) to have regular sexual health checks. If you notice any unusual symptoms visit a sexual health clinic, FPWA or doctor. Some STIs are easily cured with antibiotics if detected early, but can have long-term consequences if left untreated. While other STIs can’t be cured, treatments are available to ease symptoms.
Always using condoms and dams (latex squares held over the anal area during oral sex) reduces the risk of getting or passing on an infection.
Sexually Transmissible Infections (STIs)
An STI is an infection that can be passed on through anal or oral sex. Most STIs are transmitted through an exchange of body fluids, but some can be passed on through skin to skin genital contact.
Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea: Chlamydia and gonorrhoea are transmitted through an exchange of body fluids (semen and blood) during unprotected anal or oral sexual activity. Caused by bacteria, they can infect the penis, anus or throat. Most men with chlamydia or gonorrhoea have no symptoms at all. If symptoms are present they may include an unusual discharge from the penis or a burning sensation when peeing. Both can be cured with antibiotics and all sexual partners need to be tested and treated. If left untreated, chlamydia and gonorrhoea can lead to infertility.
Genital Warts: Also known as HPV (human papillomavirus), this virus can cause warts on the penis or anus. HPV is probably the most common STI, with some reports suggesting 70% of all sexually active people aged 19 to 25 may have the virus at some time. Most people don't develop warts even though they have the virus. HPV can be transmitted through skin to skin contact or body fluids. Treatments for visible warts are available but may not prevent warts reoccurring.
Genital Herpes: Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus and is passed on through skin to skin contact with a person who has the virus. Type 1 generally infects the mouth (causing cold sores), while type 2 generally infects the genital area (causing genital herpes). Transmission can occur even when herpes sores are not visible, which is why the infection is so easily spread, and some people are not aware that if a person with a cold sore engages in oral sex, the infection can spread to their partner’s genital area. In men outbreaks can be anywhere in the genital area, but commonly occur around the penis or anal area. The first symptom is often an itching or tingling sensation, after which a small cluster of blisters appears. With the first ‘episode’, people may have flu-like symptoms with fever, headaches and muscle aches and pain. Sometimes people are asymptomatic (have no symptoms) and are therefore unaware that they may be transmitting the virus. There is no cure for herpes. Treatment is focused on easing the symptoms and reducing further outbreaks.
Trichomoniasis: Trichomoniasis is a tiny parasite that likes moist areas of the genitals. It is transmitted through the exchange of body fluids and skin to skin contact. The small number of men who experience symptoms may notice an irritation inside the penis, mild discharge, or slight burning after peeing or ejaculating. Trichomoniasis can be cured antibiotics and all sexual partners need to be tested and treated.
Blood-Borne Viruses (BBVs)
Blood-borne viruses are passed on through blood to blood contact.
HIV/AIDS: HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus which attacks the body's immune system and can lead to the later stage of infection known as AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome). The virus is spread through direct contact with body fluids such as blood and semen. High-risk activities include sharing injecting drug equipment and unsafe sex. While early HIV symptoms can include a flu-like illness, similar to glandular fever, with swollen glands in the neck, armpits and groin, and headaches, fever and a rash, symptoms may take many years to become noticeable. The only way to tell if you have HIV is to have a blood test.
Hepatitis: Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis A, B and C are the three major viruses that cause hepatitis. Symptoms, if they occur, range from mild to severe and can include yellowing of the skin and eyes, loss of appetite, nausea, stomach pain and extreme tiredness. There is no cure for hepatitis, but a vaccine is available for hepatitis B.
Hepatitis B is transmitted through blood and semen and can be passed on through unprotected sexual activity.
Hepatitis C is transmitted through contact with infected blood. It is rarely transmitted through sexual activity but there is still a risk involved, particularly if the skin is broken.
Syphilis: Syphilis is caused by bacteria. A painless sore usually appears on or near the genital area or mouth soon after infection. This generally heals within 2-3 weeks but if left untreated, the infection moves into its secondary stage. Symptoms at this time can include a rash (especially on the hands and feet), swollen glands and hair loss. A person is highly infectious during this stage, which can last up to two years. Syphilis is transmitted through body fluids during unprotected anal and oral sex, or direct contact with open sores. If left untreated, damage can occur to the brain, nervous system and circulatory system. The only way to tell if you have syphilis is to have a blood test. In its early stages syphilis can be cured with antibiotics.
Other Infections
Pubic Lice (Crabs): Crabs are lice that attach to pubic hairs. They can be transmitted during sexual activity and by close genital contact. Crabs cannot live more than 24 hours without human contact, but can be spread by infected bed-linen, towels and clothes. Symptoms include itching, but finding the lice themselves is the best way of knowing that you have them. Treatments are available from pharmacies. Sexual partners for the last 30 days should also be treated and all clothing and bedding washed in hot water.
A note about sex toys
Many people don’t realise that toys can pass on STIs, BBVs and other infections. The best way to keep your toys safe and clean is to cover them with a condom every time you use them. Use a new condom each time, and replace it when you switch between the anus or mouth, and if you share a toy with a partner.
Practising safe sex reduces the risk of contracting HIV and other sexually transmissible infections (STIs).
Page last updated Thu, 07 Jan 2010 15:43
