Sexually Transmitted Infections

For use in Grade 8 through CALM (10-12) only.

Although reasonable efforts were made to confirm the accuracy of the information contained in this presentation, Alberta Health Services does not make any representation or warranty, express, implied or statutory, as to the accuracy, reliability, completeness or applicability of such information. In no event will Alberta Health Services be responsible or liable for any error or consequence arising from the use of the information contained in this presentation. 2012 Alberta Health Services

Ground Rules
We respect: That any question is OK That it is OK to pass That we all have different points of view Each other by listening The right to privacy That we all need to be listened to

STDs vs. STIs

Whats the difference?
Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) has replaced the term Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD)

Why?
STI is a more encompassing term that includes infections that are asymptomatic (show no symptoms)

What is an STI?
Sexually Transmitted Infections are infections generally spread by close sexual contact and sexual intercourse.

They can spread by contact with an infected partners: Skin Genitals Body fluids Mucous embranes eg. eyes, mouth

Why is it important to learn about STIs?

It helps one be able to take care of one's own body

Untreated STIs can cause problems for a person's health and future ability to have children
It helps a person to discuss STIs with a partner It helps to identify myths like Its easy to tell if a person has a STI/HIV because they will look sick that could prevent a person from using effective prevention methods or seeking needed treatments

What are some common STIs?

Chlamydia Genital herpes Genital warts (HPV) Human Papillomavirus Virus Gonorrhoea Hepatitis B/C (also a blood borne infection) HIV and AIDS (also a blood borne infection) Syphilis Pubic Lice (crabs) Scabies
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Bacterial, Parasitic, or Viral STIs

Bacterial/Parasitic: If bacteria or a parasite causes an infection, it can be treated with antibiotic or antimicrobial medication Viral: If a virus causes an infection, it is possible for it to remain asymptomatic for periods of time (meaning there are no symptoms). It is possible to have the virus and not know it, and it is possible to pass it to another person without either person knowing it. Viral STIs can be treated with medications; but not cured.
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Which STIs are Bacterial? Chlamydia Gonorrhoea Syphilis

Which STIs are Parasitic?

Pubic Lice (crabs) Scabies

Which STIs are Viral? HIV and AIDS Genital Warts (HPV) Genital Herpes Hepatitis B and C

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Which STIs are Blood-Borne?

HIV and AIDS Hepatitis B and C

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STIs in Alberta
In 2008: Approximately 65% of all
Chlamydia cases in 2008 were in individuals aged 15-24 Approximately 51% of all Gonorrhea cases were in individuals aged 15-24 Approximately 23% of all infectious Syphilis cases were in individuals 15-24

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Blood Borne Infections

Blood-borne infections are spread by contaminated blood. Some are also spread through body fluids (semen, vaginal secretions) and breast milk (HIV only). They can be transmitted by: sharing needles contaminated body piercing and tattooing equipment helping an infected person who is bleeding without using gloves sexual intercourse and close sexual contact with someone who is infected an infected mother to her baby
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Male Anatomy
Viruses and bacteria might be: In the mouth, throat or eye On the penis In the urethra In the rectum or anus In semen and pre-semen In the blood On the skin in or around the genital area
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Female Anatomy
Viruses and bacteria might be: In the mouth, throat or eye On the cervix In the vagina In the rectum or anus In vaginal fluid In the blood On the skin in or around the genital area
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What are common symptoms?

burning while urinating itching discharge (for females, different colour, amount or foul smell. For males, anything other than semen or urine) sores, bumps or a rash on or around the genitals.

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It is common to have NO SYMPTOMS at all!

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Complications of STIs
Infertility (male and female) Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in woman Epididymitis in men Urinary tract complications Cervical cancer Psychological impact Serious illness and death

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How can STIs be prevented?

Abstinence No skin to genital, genital to genital, body fluid to genital contact Limiting number of sexual partners Use condoms correctly and consistently Communication with partner sexual history Not having sex if you see a sore, etc. Regular STI testing (at least annually, more often if youve had multiple partners)
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When should I get tested?

Before you have sex with a new partner If you or your partner have been sexually active and have never been tested If you know your current or past partner has a STI If you have been forced to have sex If you have any STI symptoms At least once a year if you are sexually active

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Male Condoms
Provides a barrier for skin to skin contact and body fluids which can help protect against pregnancy and STI Available at pharmacies, grocery stores and health clinics Use a condom for oral, vaginal and anal sex or when sharing sex toys Most condoms are latex. Non-latex types include polyurethane, and polyisoprene (synthetic rubber) Check expiry date and keep in a dark cool place Do not use with oil-based products like Vaseline, baby oil or hand cream. They increase the chance of the condom breaking Use a new condom every time you have sex. Never use two condoms at once

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Male Condom Demonstration

Click here for demonstration 22

Female Condom
Provides a barrier for skin to skin contact and body fluids which can help protect against pregnancy and STI Available at pharmacies, grocery stores and health clinics Inserted prior to any vaginal contactcan be inserted up to 8 hours prior to intercourse Soft thin plastic quickly warms to body temperature, which allows for natural feeling and sensitivity Safe to use for people with latex allergies Can use water and/or oil based lubricants Do not use with the male condom, this increases the chance that both will break Use a new condom every time you have sex.

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Female Condom Demonstration

Click here for demonstration 24

Latex Barrier
Small piece of latex similar to the material used for male latex condoms Barrier method which helps to protect against STIs Stretched across the anus or womans vagina to help prevent the exchange of bodily fluids and limit skin to skin contact
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Latex Barrier Demonstration

Click here for demonstration 26

Safer Sex
Abstinence is the only 100% way to prevent the transmission of STIs
If you choose to be sexually active: Talk to your partner about your sexual health histories Choose to protect yourself from both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) Limit your number of partners Get tested regularly for STIs Get more information
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Key Messages
Consistently and correctly use condoms STIs often have NO symptoms Communicate with your partner about protecting yourselves from STIs If you are sexually active have regular testing for STIs
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Where can I go for help?

School Counsellor Teacher School Nurse Walk in Clinic Family Doctor Sexual Health Clinic

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For more information on STIs including HIV and AIDS

Alberta STD Information Line

1-800-772-2437
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