We are glad that you asked this question. HIV transmission through insect bites is a common misconception. While bed bugs are annoying, they are not known to spread diseases. Research … Read Full Answer
Nine Circles Community Health Centre answers questions about sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections to get the word out. Please scroll through our posts about safer sex, transmission, testing, harm reduction, etc… to find what you are looking for. You can also browse popular keywords by clicking SEARCH. If you don’t see your question here click ASK to submit one for our Health Educators to answer.
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bacterial vaginosis birth control chlamydia condom condoms disclosure drug use gonorrhea Hep A hepatitis Hep B Hep C herpes HIV HIV testing HPV human papillomavirus masturbation Molluscum Contagiosum Mycoplasma Genitalium no risk oral dam oral sex pap test PEP PrEP prevention safer sex sex dam Sexually Transmitted Infection STBBI STD STI STI screening STI testing syphilis testing treatment trich trichomoniasis U=U urinary tract infection (UTI) window period yeast infectionAm I at risk for sexually transmitted infections because I just got my tongue pierced?
After you get your tongue pierced you may be at a higher risk of HIV, Hep C, or bacterial infections. Piercings in the mouth and some dental work may need time to heal. But that doesn’t necessarily mean you have to stop having oral sex … Read Full Answer
Someone had "undetectable" on their online dating profile. I think that has something to do with HIV, but what does it mean?
You’re right, undetectable is a word that we use to describe when someone on HIV medications has a very low viral load. If someone is HIV positive they can manage … Read Full Answer
What does a herpes sore look like and what does a syphilis sore look like?
Before I tell you a little about what these sores look like, let me encourage you that if you have a suspicious lesion (sore) on your genitals, bum or mouth, get STI testing. The health care practitioner will swab it … Read Full Answer
I hooked up with someone at a bath house. It was my first time with a guy, my wife doesn't know.
There are a few things to consider in this situation: STI prevention, testing and communication.
In terms of prevention, there are effective options for you no matter who you are sexually active with … Read Full Answer
Does Hepatitis C infection have symptoms?
Most people during the acute phase of Hepatitis C do not experience any symptoms. In some cases symptoms do occur … Read Full Answer
An STI test is a pee test right?
There are a few different types of tests that health care providers use to test for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). A pee test may be able to detect chlamydia or gonorrhea, but urine alone won’t give a complete picture of someone’s sexual health status. It’s recommended … Read Full Answer
How do I ask a partner about STIs without sounding like a jerk?
Talking with sex partners about sex can sometimes feel awkward. But the payoff is big when it includes avoiding sexually transmitted infections, gaining consent or having great sex! Here are some tips that might make asking easier … Read Full Answer
I am a 67 year old retired secretary who lives alone. I was married to one person for 28 years and have never used drugs. But now my daughter is telling me that people my age can heave Hep C and not know it.
There are many Canadians who are living with Hep C and don’t realize it, so testing guidelines are meant to find those undiagnosed cases. Canadians who were born between 1945 and 1975 who have never been tested are encouraged to be tested for Hep C … Read Full Answer
A nurse told me that I need to get treated for syphilis. What can I expect?
Syphilis treatment from a health care provider is one needle of antibiotic in each bum cheek during the same visit. Some people say it hurts, others report it’s not that bad. The best strategy to minimize pain is to relax … Read Full Answer
My girlfriend and I use a condom when we have sex because she doesn't want to get pregnant. We have anal sex without a condom, but my friend told me that infections pass that way too.
Using condoms for vaginal intercourse significantly lowers transmission of STIs like chlaymdia, gonorrhea, Hep B, HIV, HPV and syphilis and are a tool to prevent pregnancy. Your friend is right. Anal sex … Read Full Answer
If I get tested for STDs, how is my privacy protected? Who will find out the results?
In Manitoba most sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBIs) like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C are reportable infections. This means … Read Full Answer
Is there a vaccine for Hep C?
Unfortunately there is no vaccine for preventing the Hepatitis C virus (HCV) which can lead to damage of the liver and other serious complications. The good news is that there is treatment for Hepatitis C … Read Full Answer
Is there a cure for chlamydia?
Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) which can easily be cured. Chlamydia is caused by a sexually transmitted bacteria and is treated with a single-dose antibiotic. If left untreated … Read Full Answer
I've been married to my husband for 9 years. I read that everyone who is sexually active should be tested for HIV every 5 years. Is it really necessary for people like us?
You are correct that we recommend HIV testing every 5 years for sexually active Manitobans. Safer sex practices (including testing) are for all sexually active people regardless of their relationship status, gender, sexual orientation or whether they’ve ever had a sexually transmitted infection or not. Many people … Read Full Answer
Do I have to stop having sex if I have an STD?
The great news is that no, you don’t necessarily have to stop having sex if you find out you have an STI. Medication is available to cure most STIs, and even the one’s without a cure have medications or management strategies so that sex is still an option. … Read Full Answer
Can I ever re-use a condom?
No, condoms are a one time use item that should not be re-used. (Even with the same sexual partner … Read Full Answer
Can I get tested for HIV anonymously?
In Manitoba anonymous HIV testing is available at Nine Circles Community Health Centre in Winnipeg or with Brandon Public Health. Both locations can send … Read Full Answer