Answering 5 of Your Biggest Questions About STIs
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April 4, 2022What do you know about sexually transmitted infections?
Even if you’re not sexually active, you may expect to do it in the future, or be genuinely curious about the diseases that affect so many people worldwide.
Don’t shy away from talking about STIs, because they make up a key part of your overall health, and possibly your mental wellness as well.
What Are STIs?
Sexually transmitted infections are not the same as sexually transmitted diseases. They are usually spread from one person to another, but an STI is typically the starting point of STDs.
The infections happen mostly during sexual contact and are extremely common.
When the bacteria or pathogens that caused the infection harm the cells in the body and obstruct their functions, STIs can progress into an STD.
What Are Some Common Questions About STIs?
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Can I Be Infected With More Than 1 STI?
Yes, you can. It is possible to be infected with multiple STIs at the same time.
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Are STIs Hereditary?
No, they are acquired, not because of your genetic history.
However, mothers can pass it to their children during pregnancy, delivery, or even breastfeeding. Gynaecologists typically test for these infections before a mother is due to give birth to prevent such situations from happening.
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Can I Catch an STI If I Only Have 1 Partner?
Yes, you can.
You can get an STI even if you only have 1 partner and not multiple partners. This is because your partner may have an STI with or without knowing it and pass it to you.
This is especially so if your partner is new or has not revealed the information to you. Even if your partner gets tested, it may not be a test for every type of STI.
Most of the time, doctors tend to only test the more common STIs, but there is a wide range that some may not be aware of, like:
- HPV
- Scabies
- Pubic lice
- HIV
- Hepatitis A/B
- Molluscum contagiosum
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Can I Use Chlorine to Kill STIs?
No, you cannot. Chlorine cannot be used to eliminate STI-causing bacteria, and may even cause other vaginal infections if you choose to do the deed while inside a tub with chlorine.
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I’ve Never Had Sex Before, So I Won’t Catch an STI
The truth is, even if you haven’t gotten there yet, you can still catch an STI.
Some types of STIs can be transmitted through deep and wet kissing even if it’s not a common occurrence. Some diseases like gonorrhoea, syphilis, herpes, and chlamydia can exist on the lips or even in the throat of infected people.
Even if you carry out oral sex or engage in purely kissing and touching, you can also catch an STI. In other cases, if you use a needle or other items that have already been contaminated by the blood of an infected person, you may also catch it.
Treat Your STI Before It Is Too Late
Before your STI develops into an STD, seek the appropriate treatment with your house doctor in Singapore. If you feel shy about sharing this problem outside, you can get a telemedicine consultation to have your medicine delivered discreetly to your doorstep!
